Ames

Background Image

Ames, IA

Area Guide

Share Guide

Come discover why Ames is the smart choice.

University College Town Employment History Parks Family-Friendly

Situated in the heart of America's Heartland, Ames is a college town in central Iowa. The city wraps around its stellar Iowa State University, the state's flagship university and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. Living in Ames, you'll be able to visit the university's museums, including the Brunnier Art Museum, the Anderson Sculpture Garden, and the Farm House Museum -- a National Historic Landmark, built in 1860 and the first building on campus. You'll also be able to attend Iowa State Cyclones sports events. The football team began in 1878 and is now part of NCAA Division I as a member of the Big 12 Conference.

If you are looking at apartments in Ames, you may already be aware that the city has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country at 3.6 percent. Major employers include ISU, Mary Greeley Medical Center, Ames Laboratory, and GlobalVetLINK. Ames has a variety of "best of" awards, including one of the "Best College Towns in America" and one of the "Best Places to Live." It was also awarded with titles like one of the "Best Cities in America to Get a Job," one of the "Best Places for STEM Grads," and "Best Farmer's Market in Iowa.

Rent Trends

As of December 2024, the average apartment rent in Ames, IA is $750 for a studio, $878 for one bedroom, $1,057 for two bedrooms, and $1,304 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Ames has increased by 1.9% in the past year.

Property Type
Average Rent
Average Sq Ft
Apartment
$878/month
611 Sq Ft
House
$1,464/month
983 Sq Ft
See Rental Market Trends in Ames, IA

Transportation

52

Somewhat Walkable

out of 100 WalkScore® Rating

You might be able to get out and walk when living in this area. Some errands can be accomplished on foot, but for others you’ll need a car.

71

Very Bikeable

out of 100 BikeScore® Rating

This area is very bikeable. You’ll find a variety of bike paths and lanes.

Schools

Fellows Elementary School

Public

Grades K-5

528 Students

8
out of 10

Kate Mitchell Elementary School

Public

Grades K-5

290 Students

6
out of 10

Edwards Elementary School

Public

Grades K-5

450 Students

5
out of 10

Meeker Elementary School

Public

Grades K-5

351 Students

5
out of 10

Abbie Sawyer Elementary School

Public

Grades K-5

367 Students

3
out of 10

Ames Middle School

Public

Grades 6-8

1,002 Students

4
out of 10

Ames High School

Public

Grades 9-12

1,403 Students

5
out of 10

Points of Interest

Parks and Recreation

  • Reiman Gardens

Military Bases

Airports

  • Des Moines International

Top Apartments in Ames

Houses for Rent in Ames

Property Management Companies in Ames, IA

Search Nearby Rentals