2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Scottsdale, AZ vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Scottsdale?
- The Median Age in Ames is 24.5 years younger than in Scottsdale.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Scottsdale?
- Ames housing costs are 66.8% less expensive than Scottsdale housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Scottsdale?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 5.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Scottsdale.

Things to do in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale, Arizona is a picturesque city located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Home to numerous upscale resorts and boutiques, it's an ideal spot for luxury travelers to visit. Enjoy a round of golf at one of the world-class courses or explore the desert on foot with a hike through the McDowell Mountains. Savor unique culinary creations from award-winning restaurants or take in a show at one of the many performing arts venues. With its breathtaking views and endless activities, Scottsdale is perfect for any visitor!

Things to do in Ames?
Ames, Iowa is a lively city located in the heart of central Iowa. This bustling city offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the picturesque Reiman Gardens or the historic Octagon Center for the Arts. Residents here also enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities at Hills Memorial Park or Brookside Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Ames their home.

 Scottsdale, AZAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$97,409  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$721,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.11  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Scottsdale    84 Reviews

It's been a long time since I visited Scottsdale after visiting a few times a decade ago. It used to be more of an area that deserved it's punchlines for being stuck up  More

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Over 1 years ago

My son went to ASU in '99 which is how we ended up here from Northern Illinois. Over the years we came out for vacations and bought a second home until we finally made  More

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I lived in San Jose for 30 years...in the late '50s. I walked thru cherry orchards to school. After college classes, I drove 20 minutes to the beach. San Francisco was  More

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Reviews for Ames    12 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

Hello, I am in San Jose Ca, but am seriously thinking of moving somewhere much slower for a better quality of living. I've just turned 59, so I'm kinda preparing for  More

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Over 13 years ago

Like every other city Ames has both good and bad points. The good points are: low cost of living, very friendly people, lots of outdoor activities and quite a few events  More

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Ames enjoys a high quality of life at a very affordable cost, substantially lower than many other communities. The presence of Iowa State University, a large (28,000  More

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