Nestled in the heart of the Midwest lies Ames, a beloved Iowa gem known for its small-town feel and collegiate charm. Home to the prestigious Iowa State University, this growing city continuously welcomes renters from far and wide, many of whom are students looking to experience all Ames has to offer.
If you, too, are an Iowa State student excited to start a new chapter in Ames, you might be considering off-campus housing. While living on-campus certainly has its perks, many students find that off-campus housing offers more freedom and autonomy. Plus, with so many options near the university, finding a place to call home is easier than you might think. Below, we’ve compiled a guide on how to navigate the Ames rental market and find the perfect off-campus rental near Iowa State.
Where Do Most Iowa State Students Live Off-Campus?
With more than 30,000 undergraduates, Iowa State significantly impacts the rental market in Ames. Neighborhoods near the campus offer various rental options tailored to the student lifestyle, including amenities and budget considerations. Some of the most popular neighborhoods among Iowa State students include:
North Ames
Located just above the Iowa State Campus, North Ames plays a key role in off-campus real estate. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of student rentals, ranging from luxury apartment complexes like Grayhawk Apartments to cozy single-family homes like 1431 Summit Ave. Throughout its residential areas, North Ames also boasts various conveniences, such as restaurants, grocery stores, and other essential amenities for student renters.
Campustown
Resonating with its name, Campustown is perfect for renters who want to live by the Iowa State campus. This student-populated area is right across the street from campus facilities and is home to various city amenities like coffee shops, restaurants, and bars. Not to mention, its proximity to U.S. Highway 30 makes it easy to commute around the rest of the city. Consider popular rentals like The Foundry or Gateway to fully experience the hustle and bustle of Campustown.
West Ames
West Ames is another popular option among student renters. This sprawling area is home to some of the most popular off-campus rentals, including upscale apartments like CORE Apartments and The Social West Ames®. With its suburban feel, West Ames offers a quieter alternative to the bustling Campustown while still providing easy access to campus and other essential amenities.
How Much Does Off-Campus Housing Cost in Ames?
The average cost of rent in Ames is $869 per month, which is 44% lower than the national average. That said, Ames is ideal for student renters, as it accommodates tight budgets and diverse living preferences.
Rent prices in Ames vary based on a number of factors, with one of the most important being location. If a neighborhood is in high demand, its listings will likely be in a higher price range. These will typically be conveniently located areas like Campustown, which boasts an average rent of $1,032 per month for 647 square feet. Meanwhile, other parts of town, such as South Ames, offer more affordable options a bit farther from campus. Here, you’ll find rentals for about $922 per month for 637 square feet.
Your living preferences may also affect your rent costs in Ames. If you’d prefer to live alone, you can expect to pay $716 per month for a 416-square-foot studio apartment or $869 per month for a 624-square-foot one-bedroom apartment. For those planning to live with roommates, anticipate paying around $1,052 per month for a 904-square-foot two-bedroom apartment or $1,298 a month for a 1,140-square-foot three-bedroom apartment. Many student renters opt to live with roommates to divide living expenses. However, while often more expensive, living alone can also have many advantages, such as privacy, independence, and the ability to focus on studying without distractions.
In addition to rent, it’s important to consider utility costs when budgeting living costs. Utility expenses, typically electricity, water, gas, and internet, can add an average of $150 to $250 to your monthly rent. In some cases, these expenses can be automatically included in your rent at one flat rate. However, this varies from property to property. Ask your landlord about utilities before signing a lease. You may be responsible for setting up and paying utilities on your own.
Can You Live Off Campus as a Freshman at Iowa State?
Iowa State does not enforce any living requirements for first-year students. So, if you’re a new student looking to avoid residence halls, consider opting for off-campus rental instead. Living off-campus can help you save on living expenses while also giving you the freedom to set your own schedule and live independently. Plus, with so many off-campus options near Iowa State University, it’s easy to find a rental that fits your preferences and budget.
What to Consider When Searching for Iowa State Student Housing
As a student renter, it can be tempting to sign a lease for the first place you come across. While this may alleviate the stress of an extensive rental search, it could also result in a living situation that doesn’t suit your needs. For instance, you might be an introverted bookworm who finds yourself in a bustling neighborhood or a social butterfly stuck in a quiet suburb.
To avoid disappointment and discover a rental that truly matches your lifestyle, keep the following factors in mind:
Proximity to Campus and Downtown
For many Iowa State students, living close to campus and downtown Ames is ideal. This central location allows for quick commutes to class and fun-filled city adventures like bar crawls and restaurant outings. Not to mention, living close to campus can help students stay connected with university events, clubs, and organizations.
Campustown and West Ames are your best options if you’re looking to live near campus. In these areas, you’ll likely live amongst many of your classmates, giving you the chance to build connections and fully immerse yourself in campus life. However, if you’d prefer to live in a quieter area away from the hustle and bustle of college life, there are plenty of off-campus options outside of these neighborhoods as well, especially in South and North Ames.
Walkability
With a walk score of 65, Ames is considered a somewhat walkable city, with some neighborhoods being more pedestrian-friendly than others. That said, you’ll want to pay attention to your rental’s location if you’re coming to campus without a personal vehicle. In this case, you’ll want to live in a walkable area like Campustown or North Ames, where commuting by foot is easy. However, if you don’t mind more car-dependent areas, you might consider living farther out of the city in South Ames.
Public Transportation
In addition to walking or driving, student renters can also utilize public transportation to get around campus and other parts of Ames. CyRide is the primary bus system for the city of Ames. It operates 13 fixed routes, along with a Dial-A-Ride service for riders with disabilities and a late-night service for students. To take advantage of this transportation system, consider living in areas close to bus stops or along one of the main bus routes.
Lifestyle Fit
Lastly, you’ll want to find a rental that truly fits your lifestyle. Are you an outgoing student who loves socializing? You might prefer living in Campustown or West Ames, where there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and explore the city. If quiet and privacy are more important to you, consider looking at rentals in South Ames.
Amenities may also play a part in your rental’s lifestyle fit. Perhaps you’re a fitness junkie who wants an accessible apartment gym. Or maybe you’re a pet owner looking for the perfect space for your furry friend. Amenities like these may enhance your university experience and make your off-campus rental feel more like home.
Find Student Housing in Ames with Apartments.com
Are you searching for an off-campus rental in Ames? Apartments.com is here to help! Our extensive range of renter resources includes verified listings, neighborhood guides, search filters, and more to streamline your search.
Begin by entering "Ames, IA" on our website. Use the student filters to refine your options by selecting "Specialty Housing" and then clicking "Student." Then, you can filter your search based on your specific living preferences. Whether you’re looking for a certain location or range of amenities, our filters will make it easy to find the perfect off-campus rental.
Don’t wait any longer to start your search. Find your off-campus rental today with Apartments.com and embark on your next adventure at Iowa State University. Go Cyclones!
FAQs
Where is the best off-campus housing at Iowa State University?
The best off-campus housing options near Iowa State University can be found in neighborhoods like Campustown and West Ames. These areas offer a variety of accommodations, from apartments to houses, and are conveniently located close to campus amenities.
Is it cheaper to live on or off campus at Iowa State University?
Generally, living off-campus can be cheaper than on-campus housing, especially when sharing rent with roommates. However, costs can vary greatly depending on the specific location and amenities offered.
What is the average cost of rent in Ames, IA?
The average cost of rent in Ames is $869 per month, which is 44% lower than the national average. However, prices may vary based on location and living preferences.
Are there specific living requirements for first-year students at Iowa State University?
No, Iowa State University does not enforce any living requirements for first-year students. Students are free to choose whether they want to live on or off campus.
Are utilities typically included in rent for off-campus housing at Iowa State University?
It depends on the specific rental property. In some cases, utilities may be included in a flat rate, while in others, renters may be responsible for setting up and paying utilities on their own. It's important to ask about utility costs before signing a lease.
