2025 Compare Cities Overview:
St. Cloud, MN vs Ames, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in St. Cloud?
- The Median Age in Ames is 7.0 years younger than in St. Cloud.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or St. Cloud?
- Ames housing costs are 9.4% more expensive than St. Cloud housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or St. Cloud?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 1.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of St. Cloud.

Things to do in St. Cloud?
St. Cloud, Minnesota is an inviting city located in Stearns County. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and plethora of outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing, hiking and camping. The city also boasts a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants and art galleries. Home to the historic Granite City Cinema and Paramount Theatre, visitors have access to cultural attractions like live concerts and movie screenings. With its friendly residents, low cost of living and easy access to nearby cities like Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport, it's no wonder why St. Cloud is a popular destination for those looking for a wonderful place to call home!

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.

 St. Cloud, MNAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$54,427  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$218,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.4  Unlock26.38
Reviews for St. Cloud    11 Reviews

The scenery and the water is amazing here affordable living for retired people  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

Lived here previously, have friends that still do. i don't know why anyone stays. It is the armpit of the state. Smaller town, so everyone knows everyone and is in your  More

   |    Reply

Over 8 years ago

A Stabbing happened at a local mall. I would not recommend the school district either. I heard about bullying in the schools too. I would not recommend living in the  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of St. Cloud

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ames


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.