GUIDE TO AMES Everything you need to know about moving to Ames, Iowa
WELCOME TO AMES
HUNZIKER WELCOMES YOU!
Since 1952, Hunziker & Associates, REALTORS® has been serving our clients’ complete residential and commercial real estate needs in Ames and the surrounding communities. Our owners, staff and real estate agents invest their time and resources into making this community a great place to live! We would be honored to assist you with any of your real estate needs!
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RELOCATION ASSISTANCE We offer complimentary relocation assistance through our award-winning relocation department. Contact us for a concierge service from our full-time staff . We can help you move across town, or across the nation!
SERVICES OFFERED
Realtor® referral service International moves
City-to-city comparison reports Short-term housing information Virtual house showings
Hunziker & Associates, REALTORS® Ames Office 105 S. 16 Street th Ames, IA 50014 Office Phone: (515) 233-4450
www.HunzikerRealty.com Relocation Department Grace: (515) 620-6918 Grace.Griffin@Hunziker.com
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
WELCOME TO AMES!
Ames offers a surprising amount of big-city attractions and variety, while retaining the charm of a small, welcoming hometown. With a population of over 66,000, Ames offers cultural, recreational, educational, business, and entertainment amenities more commonly found in larger metropolitan areas. As a growing city, Ames continues to focus on building a strong community filled with opportunities for all. Ames’ rich variety is largely shaped by the diverse population drawn from around the world to study and work at Iowa State University. Internationally recognized for its achievements in scientific research and ranked among the top 50 public universities in the nation, Iowa State’s student body represents all 50 states and more than 110 countries. Metropolitan-style amenities are readily available, with national concert tours and world-renowned performers frequently appearing at Hilton Coliseum and Stephens Auditorium—recognized as Iowa’s Building of the Century. Iowa State Big 12 athletic events draw enthusiastic Cyclone fans year-round. When peace and quiet are preferred, residents enjoy easy access to nature, including 55 miles of trails, 36 parks, five golf courses, and Ada Hayden Lake, all within city limits. A skate park, new aquatic center, city gymnasium, and nearby hiking and downhill skiing ensure recreation options for every season. Ames residents also enjoy flexibility in how they live, shop, and dine. Shoppers can choose between big-box retailers and locally owned boutiques in the Main Street Cultural District. Dining options range from ethnic cuisines to fast-casual favorites and lively nightlife in Campustown. Housing choices are equally diverse, from contemporary new construction and well-preserved historic homes to condos and acreages. Supported by a healthy real estate market, Ames has experienced historically stable and steady growth in home values.
Although almost everything is available in Ames, it’s only a 30 minute drive to Iowa’s capital city of Des Moines. With a low crime rate, affordable housing, top rated schools, and exceptional area attractions, Ames residents enjoy a tremendous quality of life. • 50 minute drive to DSM Airport • 3 hour drive to Omaha, Kansas City, & Minneapolis • 5 hour drive to Chicago Population: 66,258 Iowa State Student Population: 31,105 (2025) Median age: 24 years old Households with children: 18.5% Residents born outside the U.S: 13.5% Residents born in Iowa: 52% 78% of the workforce works white-collar jobs Average travel time to work: 16 min Crime rate index: 0.43 (L ess than half the national average of 1 ) Transportation Housing Median Gross Rent: $1,100 Cost of Living Index: 92.0 ( below the U.S. average of 100 )
Education
High school graduate or higher (ages 25+): 97.5% Bachelor’s degree or higher (ages 25+): 64%
Sources: US Census Bureau and OnBoard Informatics, 2025
AMES STATISTICS
In 2015, Ames was named one of the “15 Cities That Have Done the Best Since the Recession” by Bloomberg Business and one of the top 25 “Best Places for STEM Grads.”
Ames ranked No. 8 by Niche Ranking for “Best Towns for Millennials in America.”
In 2019, Ames was named “Best College Town in America” by 24/7 Wall St.
Additionally, USA Today named Ames as the healthiest city in America!
These awards highlight the wonderful aspects of Ames that residents have enjoyed for years – friendly people, beautiful parks, great shopping, progressive schools, cultural and entertainment venues, quality healthcare, and recreational opportunities in every season . In 2015, the Ames Public Library celebrated its first anniversary in its expanded facility after an $18-million renovation that nearly doubled its size. A groundbreaking was held to mark the construction of a new, state-of-the-art $75-million water treatment plant, and the Ames Power Plant has converted from coal-produced electricity to cleaner natural gas. Throughout Ames, there is evidence of our growth. In addition to winning numerous awards for being a progressive, innovative, and exciting community, Ames has been recognized locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally for our schools, creativity, commitment to the environment, and numerous amenities. Ames and Iowa State together offer an unsurpassed quality of life.
Additional Recognitions US Career Growth #1, SmartAsset, 2018 Top 10 Cities for Working Parents #2, WalletHub, 2017 Technology Community of the Year Technology Association of Iowa, 2017 Top 5 Small Metro Areas for Successful Aging NCOA, 2017 Best School District in the State #1, Niche, 2017 The 25 Best Cities for Entrepreneurs #8, Entrepreneur Magazine, 2017
Best Places to Live Money, 2016 Best Performing Cities #11, Milken Institute, 2016 Best Small Cities for New Grads Online Degrees, 2016 Top 10 Cities for Career Opportunities #8, SmartAsset, 2016 The Healthiest Cities in America #3, 24/7 Wall St., 2016 Iowa State University named “Best College in Iowa” Money, 2016 Best Small Cities for Making a Living MoneyGreek, 2016
AMES HISTORY Iowa was established as a state in 1846. Prior to the settlement of Iowa, the Ames area was home to the Sac and Fox Indians, also called the Mesquakie. In 1858, the state of Iowa chartered land for a model farm and agricultural college in an undeveloped area, which is today Iowa State University. It was the first public college established in the nation. In 1864, Ames was selected as a railway stop since the two rivers running through the area provided ample water for refilling steam engines. Trains still travel through Ames daily on what is now the Union Pacific railroad. In 1904, a state highway commission was established in Ames. The Iowa Department of Transportation remains one of the largest employers in Ames. After World War II, the G.I. Bill enabled thousands of returning veterans to attend college. Between the years of 1945 to 1946, attendance grew at Iowa State from 3400 to 9200. The university has continued to grow, and in 2010, a new enrollment record was set of over 28,000 students. The city of Ames has also grown steadily since 1940, when the population was only 10,500.
INTERESTING FACTS
During WWII, Iowa State University secretly helped the government purify uranium for the Manhattan Project. The world’s first computer was invented at Iowa State between 1937- 1942, but credit was largely attributed elsewhere until a lengthy court trial in 1973. George Washington Carver, famous for developing hundreds of uses for crops including peanuts, was the 1st African American student at Iowa State University, and later, its first African American professor. Famous former Ames residents include Actor Nick Nolte and Professional Baseball Player and Evangelist Billy Sunday. Laurel Clark, an astronaut lost in the space shuttle Columbia tragedy, was born in Ames. Olympic wrestling gold medalists Dan Gable and Cael Sanderson wrestled and coached at Iowa State University. Iowa State alum Brock Purdy went from the final pick in the NFL Draft to a Super Bowl starting quarterback in just two seasons — one of the league’s most unlikely rise-to-fame stories.
LIVING IN IOWA
Iowans enjoy a rich quality of life, with a low cost of living, stable economy, ample employment opportunities, safe neighborhoods, thriving metropolitan areas, top school systems, friendly citizens, and a wealth of recreational and cultural activities.
IOWA NICE
Classic Iowan Mentality Iowans tend to pride themselves on being practical and down to earth. Common sense and personal responsibility are highly valued. This is mixed with a tremendous openness to new ideas, quick adoption of new technology, and a friendly disposition and willingness to help others. Politically Influential Iowa is the first state in the nation to conduct caucuses to select presidential candidates. Therefore, Iowa voters determine who will be viewed as the frontrunner or drop out of the race. Presidential hopefuls begin making appearances in the state 2 years before the election. Des Moines, Iowa’s capital and largest city, is just 35 miles from Ames. The greater Des Moines metropolitan area has a population of 655,000 and is the fastest-growing Midwest metro, according to Business Record, 2019. Des Moines is a hub for finance and insurance. It maintained unemployment rates dramatically lower than the national average during the last economic downturn. This is just one reason it was named by Forbes Magazine as the #1 “Best Place for Business and Careers” in 2017. The Effect of Agriculture Agriculture is second to manufacturing in terms of gross domestic product, and only a small percentage of Iowans work directly on farms or in agriculture- related businesses. However, a high percentage of Iowans have spent time on a farm either growing up as a child when smaller family farms were common, or by visiting a farm owned by relatives. The two predominant crops are corn and soybeans.
Iowa Weather: What to Expect Living in Ames means getting to enjoy all four seasons in their full beauty. Summers are warm and lively, with July highs in the mid-80s and long sunny evenings perfect for farmers markets, festivals, biking trails, and patio dining. Regular rainfall keeps the city green and vibrant, and summer skies often stretch wide and bright in a way that surprises newcomers. Winters bring a true Midwest snow season. January highs average in the upper 20s, and fresh snowfall turns parks and neighborhoods into postcard scenes. Snow is part of daily life here, and the city is well equipped to keep roads clear and moving. Many residents embrace the season with sledding, winter walks, and cozy indoor traditions. Spring and fall are favorites for many locals. Both seasons are mild, colorful, and full of change. Temperatures can shift quickly as the weather transitions, but those swings are part of the charm — one week might call for a light jacket, the next for a sunny afternoon outdoors. Fall in particular brings crisp air, harvest scenery, and vibrant foliage. Like the rest of the Midwest, central Iowa does experience occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms, blizzards, hail, and tornadoes. Communities are well prepared, with modern warning systems and strong emergency planning. While storms can look dramatic, serious impacts are rare. Many residents say the towering summer thunderclouds are one of the region’s most impressive natural sights. For many people relocating to Ames, the changing seasons quickly become part of what makes the area feel like home — each one offering something new to look forward to.
INFORMATION SCHOOL
AMES SCHOOL DISTRICT
Ames is widely recognized for high-quality educational opportunities, not just at the university level, but also from elementary through high school grade levels. Two community school districts are located within the city limits of Ames. Open enrollment is possible between districts when space is available. Private schools are also available. Ames Community School District is one of the best in Iowa, featuring small class sizes, highly qualified teachers, rigorous academic standards, an abundance of extracurricular opportunities, and many advanced placement classes for college credit.
https://www.ames.k12.ia.us/
Ames Community School District Serves approximately 4,700 students in grades PK–12 Student-teacher ratio of about 15:1, supporting individualized attention Strong reputation for academic excellence and college readiness Dedicated educators with a focus on innovation and student engagement Well-supported arts, athletics, and extracurricular opportunities High community involvement and support for local schools Ames High School Highlights Consistent National Merit Scholar recognition Competitive academic programs, including a nationally respected Science Olympiad team Frequent All-State honors in music and fine arts Strong athletic tradition with teams competing at top levels in Iowa Wide variety of clubs, leadership programs, and enrichment opportunities
Ames Community School District has invested heavily in modern, 21st-century learning environments. Over the past decade, voter-approved bond measures funded major renovations and rebuilding projects across all elementary schools, along with significant upgrades to district facilities. The district’s newest high school opened in 2022 and features state-of-the-art classrooms, collaborative learning spaces, enhanced security design, and modern athletic and performing arts facilities. Ongoing capital improvements continue to support safe, efficient, and future-focused learning spaces for students across the district. Gilbert Community School District Homes located north of Bloomington Road in Ames are served by the Gilbert Community School District. Gilbert is a growing community just a few miles north of Ames and is known for its strong academic performance and close-knit school environment. Many families seeking a smaller district with a strong reputation for educational quality are drawn to the Gilbert school system.
Iowa State University Founded in 1858 as Iowa Agricultural College, Iowa State University is a nationally recognized research university known for innovation, discovery, and high-quality public education. ISU is especially respected for its programs in agriculture, engineering, veterinary medicine, business, and the sciences. Today, more than 30,000 students attend Iowa State, with over 100 majors and hundreds of areas of study available. The university brings Big 12 athletics, nationally touring entertainment, research partnerships, and long-standing campus traditions that energize the entire Ames community. Many residents say the presence of Iowa State adds a vibrant, youthful atmosphere while also driving economic growth and cultural opportunities throughout the city. Des Moines Area Community College DMACC’s Hunziker Career Academy in Ames offers High School students an opportunity to earn college credits. For adults, Iowa’s largest community college features a main campus in nearby Ankeny. Over 75 career programs are offered.
THINGS TO DO
Adventureland Park
Reiman Gardens
Prairie Moon Winery
C.Y. Stephens Auditorium
Ledges State Park
High Trestle Trail
Jack Trice Stadium
Seven Oaks Recreation
Sports & Recreation City of Ames Parks and Recreation................. (515) 239-5434 Civic & Social Houses of Worship Community Organizations Volunteer Center of Story County....................(515) 268-5323 Events Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau................(515) 232-4032 City of Ames Calendar of Events Calendar of Events Golf Courses (Public & Private) Ames Golf and Country Club............................ (515) 232-8334 Veenker Memorial Golf..................................... (515) 294-6727 Coldwater Golf Links......................................... (515) 233-4664 Homewood Golf Course....................................(515) 239-5363 Special Interest ACTORS Ames Community Theater ................(515) 232-2354 Ames Municipal Band Octagon Center for the Arts.............................. (515) 232-5331 CENTRAL IOWA ACTIVITIES & THINGS TO DO Tourism & Event information available at www.TravelIowa.com Amusement Parks Adventureland, Altoona Large Museums Science Center of Iowa, Des Moines Living History Farms, Urbandale AMES ACTIVITIES & THINGS TO DO
Christian Petersen Art Museum, Ames Des Moines Art Museum, Des Moines State Historical Museum, Des Moines Train Rides & Museum Boone Scenic Valley Railroad, Boone Rail Explorers USA, Boone
Zoo Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines
Cultural Event Centers I owa State Center, Ames Iowa Events Center, Des Moines Civic Center, Des Moines Des Moines Playhouse, Des Moines Des Moines Symphony, Des Moines Wineries Prairie Moon Winery, Ames Snus Hill Winery, Madrid White Oak Vineyards, Cambridge Backcountry Winery, Stratford
Shopping Centers Main Street Cultural District, Downtown Ames North Grand Mall, Ames Jordan Creek Town Center, West Des Moines Farmers Markets Ames Farmers Market, Ames Des Moines Farmers Market, Downtown Des Moines Public Gardens Reiman Gardens, Ames Botanical Garden, Des Moines Iowa Arboretum, Luther Sporting Events – College and Semi-Professional Iowa State University Athletics, Ames Iowa Barnstormers Arena Football, Des Moines
Buccaneers Hockey, Urbandale Iowa Cubs Baseball, Des Moines
Iowa Energy Basketball, Des Moines Iowa Speedway (NASCAR), Newton Des Moines Menace Soccer, West Des Moines
Trails/ Parks/ Biking/Large Lakes Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Ames Ledges State Park, Boone High Trestle Bike Trail, Ankeny to Woodward Saylorville Lake, Des Moines Gray’s Lake, Des Moines Big Creek State Park, Polk City Ice Skating Ames / ISU Ice Arena, Ames Brenton Skating Plaza (Outdoor), Downtown Des Moines Skiing, Snowboarding, River Tubing & Canoeing Seven Oaks Recreation Area, Boone Casinos Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Altoona Meskwaki Bingo Casino & Hotel, Tama
HOUSING MARKET
AMES HOUSING MARKET STATS
Ames has a healthy real estate market, with slow and steady growth in home values. Even when other areas in the nation and state have been adversely affected by the economic downturn, the Ames market has historically remained remarkably stable. Ames is a smart place to invest in a home. Ames has an abundance of state & federal employees, which has contributed to its economic resilience compared to areas with less stable job bases. There is a wide variety of housing choices in Ames, from new construction to charming older homes, condos to acreages, and architectural styles from modern to traditional and everything in between. Many homes have large trees or are located near green spaces, parks and walking trails.
Single Family Homes The majority of homes for sale in Ames are single-family homes. There is a lot of variety: they range from modest to magnificent, restored historical to brand new construction in a variety of styles and price points. Condos & Townhomes Although not as plentiful as single-family homes, there are a variety of condo and townhome options available for those looking for a low-maintenance home ownership option. Many are located in newer developments. Acreages Even though Ames is surrounded by farm land, there are not usually many acreages available, and these properties often are priced at a premium. This is due to the large amounts of land owned by public entities such as ISU and the USDA, as well as a restriction on breaking off an individual home site from farm ground in Story county. There are some rural subdivisions near Ames with homes on acre and larger lots, some large enough to accommodate horses. Lots For those looking to build a home, lots are available at a variety of price points.
To view all the homes for sale in Ames, visit www.HunzikerRealty.com
To find a real estate professional to represent you, visit our website or contact our Relocation Department to be personally matched to a well-qualified agent.
INDUSTRY BUSINESS
Ames has a historically stable economy. Unemployment rates are usually very low; often half of the national average. The abundance of state and federal government jobs in the area along with the diverse employment base have contributed to the area’s resilience in times of economic downturn.
Iowa State University
Iowa State University is the largest employer in Ames, with roughly 15,000–16,000 employees supporting a campus community of more than 30,000 students. A nationally recognized research university, Iowa State is known for leadership in agriculture, engineering, technology, and the sciences, with over 100 majors and hundreds of academic programs available. Students come to Ames from all 50 states and more than 100 countries, creating a diverse and globally connected campus. The university hosts major athletic events, conferences, performances, and cultural programs throughout the year. Venues such as the Iowa State Center attract national concert tours, conventions, and statewide events, bringing energy and tourism to the region while strengthening Ames’ role as a cultural hub in central Iowa.
Workiva Workiva is an enterprise software company based in Ames. Its main product is Wdesk, a cloud-based enterprise management and auditing software platform that enables companies to create and fi le fi nancial and compliance reports and documents to the SEC and other federal and state regulatory agencies.
National Animal Disease Center One of the largest animal disease control centers in the world is located in Ames. The 1 million square foot research facility includes high- containment lab space and several animal herds are kept on site. It is managed by the United States Department of Agriculture. The buildings and animal pastures are visible from I-35.
Danfoss Danfoss is a global company
Iowa State University Research Park The research park off ers offi ce and lab space along with business development assistance to help turn new technologies into viable business opportunities.
headquartered in Ames. They design and build hydrostatic transmissions for farm equipment and large off -highway equipment.
Barilla Barilla pasta is manufactured in Ames. Barilla is an Italian owned company.
Chevron is a global energy company providing reliable and innovative energy solutions. With operations spanning oil, natural gas, and renewable energy, Chevron delivers the products and technologies that power communities and drive progress worldwide.
Ames Laboratory Ames Laboratory is a research facility of the US Department of Energy run by Iowa State University focused on energy solutions.
Hach Company Hach is a world leader in water quality testing & treatment supplies. It was founded in Ames by a husband and wife team in 1947.
Iowa Department of Transportation The Iowa Department of Transportation’s central administrative office is the second-largest employer in Ames. They are responsible for engineering road work and issuing state driver’s licenses.
McFarland Clinic, PC McFarland Clinic PC is Central Iowa’s largest physician-owned health care clinic, serving 12 Iowa communities and employing over 1,100 people.
Mary Greeley Medical Center Mary Greeley Medical Center is a hospital owned by the city of Ames. Mary Greeley offers more than 36 specialties, and serves 13 counties.
MOVING GUIDE
Utilities Electric & Water
City of Ames.................................................................(515) 239-5120 Electric Midland Power...............................................(515) 386-4111 Alliant Energy...............................................................(800) 255-4268 Natural Gas Alliant Energy.........................................(800) 255-4268 Garbage Service Resource Recovery Plant..............(515)-239-5137 Phone / Internet / TV Century Link.................................................................(800) 244-1111 Mediacom.....................................................................(800) 332-0245 Mid-Iowa Satellite (TV only)........................................(515) 233-1112 Government Contacts Post Office // 210 Welch Avenue...............................(515) 292-2098 City Hall // 515 Clark Avenue.....................................(515) 239-5200 Voter Registration.......................................................(515) 382-7210 Driver’s License // 3708 W Lincoln Way...................(515) 296-2393 County Court House // Nevada, Iowa.......................(515) 382-7255 City of Ames Assessor // 515 Clark Avenue.............(515) 239-5370
Transportation Executive Express // (Shuttle to Des Moines).............(888) 522-9899 CyRide // (City bus service)............................................(515) 292-1100 Medical Care Mary Greeley (Hospital) // 1111 Duff Avenue.............(515) 239-2011 McFarland Clinic // 1215 Duff Avenue.........................(515) 239-4400 News Sources Ames Tribune...................................... (515) 663-6900 Des Moines Register...................................................... (877) 424-0225 Miscellaneous Ames Chamber of Commerce......... (515) 232-2310 Ames Public Library.......................................................(515) 239-5646
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