Is Ames Iowa a good place to live?

Yes. Ames consistently ranks among the best places to live in Iowa and the Midwest. With top-rated schools, a thriving downtown, Iowa State University, and a strong sense of community, Ames attracts families, professionals, and retirees alike.

What school district serves Ames Iowa?

Ames is served by the Ames Community School District, which includes multiple elementary schools, Ames Middle School, and Ames High School. The district is known for strong academics, arts programs, and extracurricular activities.

How far is Ames from Des Moines?

Ames is approximately 30 miles north of Des Moines via Interstate 35, making it about a 30–35 minute drive. Many residents commute to the Des Moines metro for work while enjoying the smaller-city lifestyle in Ames.

Are there acreages near Ames Iowa?

Yes. Acreage properties are available in several directions outside Ames, including south toward Huxley, east toward Nevada, and north toward Gilbert. These properties offer rural living with convenient access to Ames amenities.

Ames Iowa Real Estate

Ames is the heart of Story County and home to Iowa State University. With a vibrant downtown, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, Ames consistently ranks among the best places to live in Iowa. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a growing family, or relocating for work at ISU or the Iowa DOT, Ames offers diverse housing options at every price point.

Ames Iowa Housing Market

Ames features a wide range of housing from historic homes near campus in the Old Town neighborhood to newer subdivisions in South Ames and Somerset. The market includes single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and acreage properties just outside city limits.

Home prices in Ames range from starter homes in the $180,000s to executive properties exceeding $500,000. The market remains active year-round thanks to steady demand from university employees, state workers, and families drawn to the Ames Community School District.

Acreage properties are available on the outskirts of Ames, particularly along Highway 30 toward Nevada and south toward Huxley, offering rural living with easy access to city amenities.

Who Buys Homes in Ames Iowa

•Families wanting access to the highly rated Ames Community School District
•Iowa State University faculty, staff, and graduate students
•Professionals working at the Iowa DOT, USDA, or local employers
•First-time homebuyers looking for an affordable Midwest market
•Investors seeking rental properties near Iowa State campus
•Retirees who want cultural amenities and a walkable community

Types of Properties in Ames

•Single-family homes in established neighborhoods like Somerset, Northridge Heights, and Sunset Ridge
•Historic homes near Iowa State University in Old Town and College Creek
•Townhomes and condominiums ideal for low-maintenance living
•New construction in growing subdivisions south and west of Ames
•Acreage properties and hobby farms outside city limits
•Multi-family investment properties near campus

Living in Ames Iowa

Welcome to Ames: The Heart of Iowa — Ames isn't just a college town—it's a vibrant, award-winning community consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Whether you're drawn by the world-class innovation at Iowa State University or the charm of our historic tree-lined streets, Ames offers a perfect balance of big-city amenities and small-town safety.

Life in the "515" — Living in Ames means having access to an incredible quality of life. Spend your Saturday mornings exploring the Ames Main Street Farmer's Market, or take a peaceful stroll through the breathtaking Reiman Gardens. For the outdoor enthusiast, the city boasts over 35 parks and woods. Ada Hayden Heritage Park is a local favorite for kayaking, fishing, and sunset walks along the water.

Education & Innovation — Education is the backbone of our community. The Ames Community School District is top-rated in the state, providing exceptional opportunities for families. As the home of Iowa State University, the city is a hub for research and technology, creating a stable economy and a diverse, forward-thinking population.

Connectivity & Culture — Getting around is a breeze thanks to CyRide, our nationally recognized public transit system. When you aren't cheering on the Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium, you can enjoy the local arts scene at the Octagon Center for the Arts or catch a show at Stephens Auditorium.

Finding Your Place in Ames — From the historic character of Old Town to the modern, walkable convenience of Somerset, the Ames real estate market has something for everyone.

Buying or Selling in Ames

Brandi Nelson, REALTOR®, and the Nelson Real Estate Team help buyers and sellers navigate the Ames real estate market. Whether you're purchasing your first home near Iowa State, upgrading to a larger property in Somerset, or selling an acreage outside of town, our team provides expert guidance throughout every step of the process.

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Thinking About Buying or Selling in Ames?

Whether you're buying your first home, selling a property, or exploring acreages in the Ames area, the Nelson Real Estate Team is here to help.