Within a few miles, residents of Ames can visit a commercial downtown district, spend the day at the lake in Ada Hayden Heritage Park or feel the Hilton magic on campus at Iowa State University. This central Iowa city’s economy is bolstered by the university and the Iowa Department of Transportation, while others commute the 40 miles south to Des Moines for work. The city’s highly rated public schools are attractive to families. “Housing affordability is certainly up there,” says Paul Livingston, an area Realtor with Hunziker & Associates who has more than 20 years of industry experience. “Although perhaps we’re one of the more expensive cities in the state of Iowa, as I’ve had the opportunity to work with a number of people through the years from different parts of the country, Ames is clearly affordable when compared to most.”
Ada Hayden Heritage Park on Ames' north side boasts a lake and miles of walking trails.
Ames residents are firm believers in Hilton Magic, as they file into Hilton Coliseum.
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Ames can be accessible to a mix of buyers
Most of Ames’ residential areas come with a suburban feel, complete with winding sidewalk-lined blocks dotted with trees. Traditional single-family homes here start at around $135,000 — buyers can find options built in the early to mid-20th century from that mark and up to $470,000, depending on square footage and lot size. These homes are organized into established neighborhoods like Brandshell and Ontario.
Modern homes, constructed in the 1990s through recent years, fill Sunset Ridge and Bloomington Heights and are priced between $200,000 and $900,000. Ranch, bungalow, colonial and new traditional Craftsman are common styles around the city. Condos and townhomes are priced between $100,000 and $500,000, too. But buyers may have to move quickly — Livingston says the median days on the market for Ames listings in 2024 was 11 days. “That does vary slightly by price range,” Livingston says. “That changes once you get over $500,000. That market, though not slow, is comparatively slower.” The median home price is around $315,000.
The ranch homes of Brandshell provide comfort and a welcoming charm for Ames residents.
Ames boasts a variety of housing styles, like the Colonial Revival of Bloomington Heights.
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Iowa State University is the city’s largest employer
Situated on roughly 2,000 acres in western Ames, Iowa State University has a major influence on the city’s economy. Not only does ISU have 30,400 total students, but it’s also Ames’ largest employer with more than 10,000 people, according to the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. The Iowa Department of Transportation is headquartered in the city, employing thousands more. Institutions like the 220-bed Mary Greeley Medical Center in North Old Town offer jobs in healthcare, and companies like 3M and mobile hydraulics producer Danfoss have opportunities in manufacturing.
Danfoss out in east Ames is one of the city's largest employers.
Ames is home to the Iowa Department of Transportation headquarters.
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Ames Community School District rates an A-minus on Niche
The area schools are a huge factor for buyers who have kids or are planning to, Livingston says. Most students in town attend the Ames Community School District, which earns an A-minus rating on Niche. But the A-rated Gilbert Community School District, B-plus-rated Nevada Community School District and B-plus-rated United Community District serve certain parts of the city.
The sports programs at the A-minus-rated Ames High, part of the Ames Community School District, have an illustrious history with more than 90 state championships combined. That’s a record for high schools across the state. The academics are rigorous, too. “Ames High can give you anything and everything that you want and need to challenge that outstanding student,” Livingston says.
Iowa State University offers bachelor's and master's degrees. The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine are highly rated programs. The College of Engineering and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences have high enrollments. Just over half of Iowa’s student population is from the state. A section of the city known as Campustown offers students a close-by array of restaurants and other businesses, and the campus is also just about 2 miles from downtown. ISU athletic events are a popular draw. “I think Iowa State and the community of Ames do an excellent job of building bridges and trying to stay interconnected, knowing that, ultimately, we’re rowing in the same boat, trying to go in the same direction.”
Ames' Iowa State University boasts an exceptional engineering program.
Ames High School prepares North Old Town teens for bright futures.
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Main Street is a walkable corridor
Downtown Ames exists in an orbit around Main Street, a walkable stretch full of cafes and other restaurants, clothing stores and banks. “Over the years I think we find a really nice mix of retail, banking, financial services, nice restaurants, bars, coffee shops, jewelry stores,” Livingston says. “So people are just finding their niche.”
The Ames History Museum is downtown with exhibits dedicated to telling the history of this city that was founded in the mid-19th century. The Main Street Farmers Market is open on Saturdays downtown from May to October, and the annual Fourth of July Parade rolls through in the summer before fireworks at ISU’s Jack Trice Stadium.
Duff Avenue, not far from Main Street, offers big-box stores, while South Campus Area ’s assortment of local spots close to ISU resembles downtown, another walkable section of the city.
Meeker North is just blocks from the revitalized Downtown Ames.
Campustown is a neat little section of Ames full of shops and restaurants next to campus.
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Spots like Ada Hayden add opportunity for outdoor recreation
Ames balances a good bit of green space around its residential corridors, commercial offerings and the sprawling Iowa State campus. The city has a total of almost 40 parks. “We take pride in that,” Livingston says. The options range from small spots like Franklin Park, which places a playground within walking distance of several homes, to the 437-acre Ada Hayden Heritage Park, where there’s a lake. “It’s a real gem,” Livingston says of Ada Hayden. “It’s utilized all the time.” Those looking for an indoor option have the Ames/ISU Ice Arena, which is open to public skating, and the Ames Parks and Recreation Community Center, where there’s a weight room and basketball courts.
The city experiences all four seasons, from warm summers to winters, with average temperatures in the teens. The area is also in a part of the country known to experience tornadoes — Iowa has averaged 69 tornadoes a year since 2010, according to a Des Moines Register database.
Ada Hayden Heritage Park is a sprawling green space on Ames' north side.
Ames locals love local Franklin Park for its convenience and amenities.
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Interstate 35 is a link to other locales
A portion of I-35 cuts through Ames. I-35 is a connection to Des Moines, 40 miles south, which is Iowa’s capital and where some work. “Most people in Ames are within a 40- or 45-minute commute to Des Moines,” Livingston says. “I know a number of people who make that commute each day.” Those traveling out of town can fly out of the Des Moines International Airport, too, 42 miles away. Ames also has its own bus service, CyRide, which has 13 routes.
Crime
The city experienced a slight increase in overall crime from 2022 to 2023, according to Iowa Department of Public Safety statistics. Still, Ames’ rates of violent and property crime are below national levels, according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer.
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Ames, IA sell after 36 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Ames, IA over the last 12 months is $325,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Location, Location, Location! Step outside the side door and you are at the Cy Ride stop with a direct route to ISU. One block to Sawyer Elementary and easy access to Hwy 30. This home has been meticulously maintained and with 6 bedrooms and 2 baths you have the flexibility to fit your lifestyle. Beautiful hardwood floors throughout the main level. The main level has 4 bedrooms with 2 of them
Quality built by HCS Construction, this beautiful, two-story home is located in Northridge Heights within the award-winning Gilbert School District. This home defines what it means to have space and flexibility to make your dreams come true. With over 5,000 finished sq. ft., 7 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms it can accommodate large families, a mother-in law-suite, homes offices, work out space or
Enjoy this nearly 5-acre oasis just five minutes ISU campus. Besides the private, wooded setting this property offers an almost 6,000 sq ft home with 8 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, and 3 kitchens. This is a terrific opportunity for a multigenerational home, a bed & breakfast, or possibly an opportunity for multiple resident situations. Step inside to the entry foyer and go into one of the three living
This spacious, versatile ranch home offers a great floor plan on a spacious lot in the highly desired Scenic Valley Neighborhood. The main entrance features sidelight shades. The main floor features a split floor plan with two bedrooms up front, a full bath, a mudroom, and convenient laundry. The Great Room has two large custom windows that bring in tons of natural light. It also has an electric
Motivated Seller! Priced far below new construction, this 2022 HCS-built home is in a cul-de-sac and has all the window treatments, appliances, and mature sodded lawn already! There's over 2500 finished SF to love in this gorgeous ranch home in Scenic Valley and the coveted Gilbert school district. As you enter, you'll be greeted by the open concept, sunny southern exposure of the main living
DRASTIC PRICE REDUCTION!!! An excellent opportunity for college students, families, or investors looking for a smart alternative to rising rent and dorm costs. This home is in a standout location near downtown and just two houses from the CyRide stop, making campus, shopping, dining, and daily errands easy to reach.Inside, you’ll find meaningful updates that add comfort and value, including
Beautifully updated 1.5-story home in the desirable Northridge Parkway neighborhood offering 4 bedrooms, 4 baths and an impressive 3,393 sq ft of finished living space, including 2,316 sq ft above grade and 1,077 sq ft in the finished lower level. Step inside to soaring ceilings, rich wood flooring, and thoughtful updates throughout. At the heart of the home, the beautifully designed kitchen
Welcome to this beautifully appointed 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home nestled in the highly sought-after Northridge Heights neighborhood and within the acclaimed Gilbert School District. Offering over 3,300 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this residence strikes the perfect balance between everyday functionality and comfort. The main level features a flexible living area ideal for a
Welcome home to this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch located in a quiet, established neighborhood in West Ames. Built in 1967, this home has been lovingly cared for and features a newer roof, a new water heater, and replacement windows installed approximately 10 years ago. The functional floor plan offers comfortable living spaces, along with the convenience of a 2-car attached garage.
Build Your Dream Home in Prairie Valley - Where Nature Meets Neighborhood. Discover the opportunity to build in Prairie Valley, a premier residential development nestled in northwest Ames and within the highly sought-after Gilbert School District. This spacious lot offers a tranquil, country-like setting while keeping you just minutes from Somerset dining, shopping, and Iowa State University.
Build Your Dream Home in Prairie Valley - Where Nature Meets Neighborhood. Discover the opportunity to build in Prairie Valley, a premier residential development nestled in northwest Ames and within the highly sought-after Gilbert School District. This spacious lot offers a tranquil, country-like setting while keeping you just minutes from Somerset dining, shopping, and Iowa State University.
Build Your Dream Home in Prairie Valley - Where Nature Meets Neighborhood. Discover the opportunity to build in Prairie Valley, a premier residential development nestled in northwest Ames and within the highly sought-after Gilbert School District. This spacious lot offers a tranquil, country-like setting while keeping you just minutes from Somerset dining, shopping, and Iowa State University.
Escape the hustle without sacrificing convenience in this 3-bedroom ranch nestled on a stunning wooded lot at the edge of town. This home offers a rare combination of privacy, space, and accessibility. Inside, you'll find an easy, one-level layout with a full bath plus a guest-friendly half bath. Step outside and take in the mature trees and serene setting, perfect for relaxing evenings or
The Social West Ames® is located just west of the Iowa State University campus, providing you with the opportunity to walk, bike, or CyRide to campus with ease. We offer three different buildings that cater to your needs - options for 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5-bedroom floor plans - including both apartment and townhome style with modern interiors including stainless steel appliances, hardwood flooring,
Welcome to The Madison, where student living meets comfort, convenience, and community. Located just minutes from Iowa State University, our prime location keeps you close to campus while putting the best of Ames within easy reach. Choose from spacious three- and four-bedroom apartment homes, available in both furnished and unfurnished options, so you can create a space that fits your lifestyle.
The Social West Ames is located just west of the Iowa State University campus, providing you with the opportunity to walk, bike, or CyRide to campus with ease. The community is also close to many exciting nearby attractions such as West Towne Pub, Kingpin Pizza, Cafe Milo, North Grand Mall, Cinemark Movies 12, and Perfect Games. Our one, two, three, four and five-bedroom apartments and townhomes
Now leasing Brick Towne Ames apartment homes, a brand new way of thinking and style of living in Ames, Iowa. Brick Towne as buildings exclusive to professionals and buildings that allow for students, providing our tenants with the best of both worlds. Our property features spacious one and two bedroom apartment homes crafted with the imaginative combination of modern interior finishes and a
Meet Point at Ames! Located just minutes away from Iowa State University, our spacious floor plans are paired with top-notch amenities. There’s no doubt about it - The Pointe at Ames has everything an ISU student will need to live, study, and play! We offer a 24-hour fitness center, study lounges, and green spaces for your four-legged friend! Hop on one of our two convenient CyRide stops for easy
Campustown in Ames, IA is the premier off-campus student housing community, conveniently located just steps from Iowa State University. Our fully furnished apartments feature private bedrooms and bathrooms, with spacious townhome layouts that combine independence and comfort. Residents enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center, a resort-style pool with hot tub and sun deck, sauna, dedicated cardio
Welcome to Alpine Manor Apartments – Peaceful Living in the Heart of Ames!Experience comfortable, affordable living at Alpine Manor Apartments, conveniently located at 1209 N Dakota Ave, Ames, IA 50014. Nestled in a quiet, park-like setting, Alpine Manor offers the perfect atmosphere for anyone looking for a peaceful place to call home while staying close to everything Ames has to
Welcome to Hickory Ridge Apartments – Affordable, Comfortable Living in Ames!Discover the perfect balance of affordability, comfort, and convenience at Hickory Ridge Apartments, located at 4301 Lincoln Swing, Ames, IA 50014. Just a short drive from Iowa State University along Lincoln Way, Hickory Ridge offers an easy commute to campus while providing a quiet, relaxing community you'll
2700 Lincoln is a luxury, student apartment community located in Ames, IA just steps from Iowa State University and various shops and restaurants. Our prime location offers modern conveniences and upscale living. With space ranging across a wide array of 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5-bedroom floor plans, we're sure to have the perfect place to call home. Residents enjoy a variety of amenities like the
Located directly across the street from Howe Hall and State Gym, 221 Sheldon Ave offers unbeatable convenience on the west edge of Iowa State University’s campus. Just half a mile from Parks Library and a quarter mile from the Black Engineering Building, this complex is ideal for students or professionals seeking easy access to campus.Each 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit features between
West Towne is a pet-friendly, modern apartment community located in West Ames, IA. An easy drive or bike ride from Iowa State University, you will enjoy having everything you desire close to home. With space ranging from 416 - 1,304 sq. ft. across a wide array of studio, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5-bedroom floor plans, we're sure to have a place you can call home. Residents get to enjoy various amenities
Clocktower Place is located in the heart of Campus Town just one block south of Iowa State University Campus. Enjoy quick access to restaurants, shopping and nightlife all within walking distance of your apartment. Property features include unique layouts including lofted and mezzanine floor plans. All units have a décor of light designer colors, carpeted bedrooms and luxury vinyl plank flooring
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