Best Place to Raise Your Kids: Iowa

Best Place to Raise Your Kids: Iowa

Ames

Nearest city: Ames
Population: 53,006
Median family income: $78,311
Runners-up: West Des Moines, Dubuque

Ames, about 35 miles north of Des Moines, is home to Iowa State University and its Cyclones sports teams. It has 33 woodland parks, 55 miles of bike paths, five golf courses, and good schools.