2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ottumwa, IA vs Mason City, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Mason City older or younger than people in Ottumwa?
- The Median Age in Mason City is 4.8 years older than in Ottumwa.

Are housing costs cheaper in Mason City or Ottumwa?
- Mason City housing costs are 40.3% more expensive than Ottumwa housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Mason City or Ottumwa?
- The average commute for residents of Mason City is 1.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Ottumwa.

Things to do in Ottumwa?
Ottumwa, IA is a charming city located in Wapello County. With an estimated population of 25,000 people, Ottumwa has something special for everyone. From outdoor activities like fishing and hiking to cultural attractions like the American Gothic House–there's always something new to explore in this lively city. Residents also benefit from easy access to quality public and private schools as well as excellent healthcare facilities. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation—Ottumwa has something special for everyone!

Things to do in Mason City?
Mason City, IA is a vibrant city located in the heart of Iowa. With an estimated population of 27,000 people, Mason City has something special for everyone. From outdoor activities like boating on the Winnebago River and golfing at Chaplin Park to unique shopping experiences along North Federal Avenue, there’s always something to explore and enjoy in this charming city. Residents also benefit from easy access to excellent public and private schools as well as top-notch healthcare facilities. Whether you’re looking for exploration or relaxation – Mason City has something special for everyone!

 Ottumwa, IAMason City, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock27,385329,725,481
 Median Income$48,198  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$97,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.38  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ottumwa    5 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

Ottumwa has a seemingly high rate of theft-related crimes as well as drug use which I'm sure correlates to the incidences of assault. For a community of 20-30,000, the  More

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Over 16 years ago

ottumwa, Iowa has no diverse culture. It is not very open especially when it comes to branching out to new ideas of others culture...The idea of culture here is the pro  More

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Over 17 years ago

Pros: 1. Extremely low cost of living and housing 2. Affordable place to live Cons: 1. High crime rate 2. Very poor school system 3. Economically depressed 4.  More

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Reviews for Mason City    8 Reviews

I am from the area originally and have lived several places. I recently moved back from Arizona. I moved back to help with my elderly parents. If I did not have  More

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Over 13 years ago

Where to begin?? Murder,arson,abductions,beastialty,gang killings,meth labs,pantie thiefs. High utility bills, no jobs, corrupt police, evil judges, minus 40 below wind  More

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Over 14 years ago

Unless you have a tie to Mason City, such as family, don't even consider this desolate town. The population is declining rapidly for a reason. You are on an island,  More

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