2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Wapello, IA vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Wapello?
- The Median Age in Ames is 23.1 years younger than in Wapello.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Wapello?
- Ames housing costs are 100.8% more expensive than Wapello housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Wapello?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 8.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Wapello.

Things to do in Wapello?
Living in Wapello, IA is a wonderful experience. The small town charm allows for a laid back atmosphere with many opportunities to get out and enjoy nature. With the Des Moines River running through it, there are plenty of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed. There are several parks and trails to explore, plus fishing and boating opportunities on the river itself. The town also offers plenty of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Iowa State Fair, which is held annually in nearby Des Moines. In addition, there is a wide variety of local businesses offering everything from eateries to retail stores. All in all, Wapello is an excellent place to live and raise a family in a safe and welcoming environment.

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.

 Wapello, IAAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$70,594  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$119,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time25.13  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Wapello    0 Reviews

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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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