Move to Ames, Iowa – Your Ultimate Guide to Living, Working, and Thriving in Ames

If you're considering a move to Ames, Iowa, you're in for a treat. As a local REALTOR® with years of experience helping first time homebuyers, families, professionals and retirees find their perfect home, I can confidently say that Ames is one of the best-kept secrets in the Midwest. With its blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, excellent schools, vibrant culture and booming job market, Ames offers an exceptional quality of life.

Why Move to Ames?

Ames consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Iowa, and for good reason. It offers a safe, welcoming community with a strong sense of belonging. Residents enjoy clean neighborhoods, beautiful green spaces and a lower cost of living compared to many urban areas. Whether you’re a young professional, growing family or retiree looking for a peaceful yet engaging environment, Ames has something for everyone.

One of the biggest draws to Ames is its four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and full of outdoor activities, while fall brings breathtaking foliage. Winters can be cold, but they come with opportunities for cross-country skiing and cozy evenings. Spring welcomes blooming landscapes and community events that bring everyone together.

Housing and Real Estate Market

Ames’ real estate market is diverse, offering everything from charming historic homes to modern new builds. Whether you're looking for a cozy starter home, a spacious family residence, or an acreage just outside city limits, Ames has plenty of options.

Compared to national averages, Ames remains an affordable place to buy a home. According to Zillow the average home price hovers around $251,000, making it a great place to invest in real estate. Rental properties are also reasonably priced, and many come with amenities like easy access to Iowa State University (ISU) and the city’s bustling downtown.

Neighborhoods in Ames vary in character, with options for every lifestyle. If you want to be close to the action, Downtown Ames offers walkability to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. For a quieter, suburban feel, Northridge and Somerset are great options, while the west side of Ames provides newer developments with family-friendly parks and schools.

Cost of Living and Affordability

Ames is known for its affordability. While housing costs are slightly higher than some rural parts of Iowa, they remain significantly lower than in major metropolitan areas. Property taxes are reasonable, and residents enjoy a cost of living that includes lower-than-average utility expenses, affordable groceries, and free or low-cost entertainment options.

One perk of buying a home in Ames is the Homestead Tax Credit, which offers savings to homeowners who use their property as their primary residence. Additionally, energy efficiency rebates and smart home initiatives make it even easier to save on long-term expenses.

Job Market and Career Opportunities

Ames isn’t just a great place to live—it’s also an excellent place to work. As home to Iowa State University, the city benefits from a strong educational and research-driven economy. ISU is a major employer, offering a range of careers in education, engineering, and business.

Beyond the university, Ames has a thriving job market in industries like healthcare, technology, and agriculture. Companies such as Workiva, 3M, and Barilla Group provide high-paying positions in various fields. For those looking to start a business, Ames has an entrepreneurial-friendly environment with resources such as the Ames Chamber of Commerce and the Iowa State Research Park.

Remote workers also find Ames appealing due to its fast internet speeds, affordable office spaces, and quality of life that balances work and leisure seamlessly.

Education and Schools

Families moving to Ames are drawn to its outstanding education system. The Ames Community School District is consistently ranked among the top in Iowa, with high graduation rates and strong college placement statistics. The Gilbert Community School District is another top-rated option. Serving parts of north Ames and the surrounding area, Gilbert schools are known for their strong academic programs, dedicated teachers, and a close-knit community feel.

Iowa State University is another major draw. As a world-renowned research institution, ISU provides endless opportunities for continuing education, career advancement, and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re a student, educator, or someone looking to take a few courses for personal growth, ISU enhances the intellectual vibrancy of the city.

Getting Around Ames

Transportation in Ames is convenient and accessible. The city boasts one of the best public transit systems in the country with CyRide, a bus service that makes getting around town easy and affordable. Many students and professionals rely on CyRide for daily commutes, reducing the need for personal vehicles.

For those who prefer driving, Ames is well-connected to major highways, making it easy to travel to nearby cities like Des Moines, which is just 40 minutes away. Cyclists and pedestrians will also appreciate the extensive network of bike trails and walkable neighborhoods.

Things to Do in Ames

Ames may be a smaller city, but it offers plenty of activities to keep residents entertained year-round.

• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy scenic trails at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, fishing at Peterson Pits, or hiking at Ledges State Park, just a short drive away.
• Cultural Attractions: Reiman Gardens, the Iowa State Center, and the Octagon Center for the Arts bring art, music, and educational experiences to the community.
• Shopping and Dining: Locally owned shops in Downtown Ames and the North Grand Mall offer diverse shopping options. Dining in Ames includes everything from farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisine, with favorites like The Cafe and Hickory Park.
• Annual Events: Ames is home to unique community events like the Octagon Arts Festival, ISU Homecoming, and Summerfest. Farmers’ markets and holiday parades add to the charm of the city.

Family-Friendly Activities

Ames is a fantastic place for families, with numerous parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly activities.

• Furman Aquatic Center offers water slides and pools for summer fun.
• Ames/ISU Ice Arena provides ice skating for all ages.
• Story City Antique Carousel, just a short drive away, offers a nostalgic experience for families with young kids.

Community and Lifestyle

Ames is known for its friendly, welcoming community. Neighbors look out for one another, and local organizations provide plenty of opportunities to get involved. From neighborhood associations to volunteering at community centers, there are countless ways to connect and make a difference.

Safety is another perk of living in Ames. With low crime rates and a proactive police force, residents feel secure in their homes and neighborhoods.

Healthcare and Wellness

Quality healthcare is easily accessible in Ames. Mary Greeley Medical Center is a highly rated hospital offering comprehensive care, from emergency services to specialized treatments. There are also numerous clinics, dental offices, and holistic wellness centers throughout the city.

For those focused on fitness, Ames has several gyms, yoga studios, and outdoor recreation spaces. Whether you prefer working out at a local fitness center or enjoying a morning jog on a nature trail, there are plenty of ways to stay active.

Moving Resources

If you're planning a move to Ames, here are some essential steps to get started:

• Set Up Utilities: Ames Electric and Water Utilities make it easy to get connected.
• Hire a Moving Company: Local movers offer professional and affordable services.
• Find a REALTOR®: A knowledgeable local REALTOR® can guide you through the home-buying process and help you find the perfect property.

Insider Tips from a Local REALTOR®(that's me Brandi Nelson!)

• Move in late spring or early summer for the best weather and housing availability.
• Explore hidden gems like small-town diners, local breweries, and boutique shops.
• Get involved early! Joining local Facebook groups or attending community events helps newcomers settle in quickly.

Conclusion

Ames, Iowa, is more than just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. With a strong economy, outstanding schools, diverse activities, and a welcoming community, it’s no surprise that so many people choose to call it home.

If you’re ready to make the move, let’s connect! As a local REALTOR®, I’d love to help you find the perfect home and make your transition to Ames as smooth as possible.