Student Housing in Ames

Ames is a well-known student city in Iowa, driven largely by the presence of Iowa State University. With a student population of over 30,000, the demand for housing in Ames stays consistently high. The city offers a balanced mix of affordability, safety, and a calm college-town lifestyle, making it a practical choice for domestic and international students. Due to limited on-campus housing and long waiting lists, many students prefer off-campus housing options. Off-campus housing may offer more flexibility in terms of lease agreements and living arrangements. This has led to a wide range of options, including 1- or 2-bedroom apartments Ames, shared housing, and private apartments suited to different budgets and living preferences.

Students looking for affordable student apartments in Ames can find monthly rents starting from around $500–$800 per person, depending on location, layout, and amenities. Off-campus apartments often come with more amenities such as fitness centers, pools, and study lounges. Amber simplifies the housing search in Ames by bringing verified apartments and housing options onto one trusted platform. With easy filters, clear pricing ranges, personalized assistance, and dedicated booking support, students can compare student apartments in Ames, explore flexible lease options, and secure housing without stress. The best options for apartments in Ames Iowa near campus are Copper Beech and The Grove at Ames.

Ames is a student-focused city located in central IA, about 30 miles north of Des Moines. It is best known for its strong academic environment and relaxed college-town setting. The city originally grew around agriculture and railroads, and over time, it developed into one of Iowa’s key education and research hubs. Ames has a population of roughly 66,000, with students making up a large share of the city’s residents. This gives the city a young, active feel throughout the year. The area is surrounded by green spaces, with places like Ada Hayden Heritage Park and nearby trails offering easy outdoor breaks from study life. For Gen Z students, Ames hosts regular campus events, live music nights, seasonal festivals, and student-led cultural programs that keep weekends social without feeling overwhelming.

The city is home to Iowa State University, one of the most recognized public universities in the Midwest. Iowa State University is recognized globally in the QS World University Rankings. In the 2026 QS ranking, it is placed #449 in the world, showing its strong presence among universities internationally.  Several amber-listed Ames rentals are just a 5-10 minute bus ride or a short bike commute from Iowa State University. Ames is ideal for student life because of its affordable living costs, safe neighborhoods, and strong student support systems. With a clear focus on education, easy transport, and a community built around campus life, Ames continues to be a reliable choice for students.

Finding the right place to live plays a big role in how students settle into a new city. In Ames, comfort, distance from campus, budget, and safety are the main factors students look at when choosing the best student housing in Ames. This is where amber helps by bringing budget-friendly and verified listings together so students can compare options, prices, and locations in one place. Many off-campus apartments near Iowa State University are pet-friendly. Here are the best options for affordable and cheap apartments in Ames for students:

1. Copper Beech - It offers spacious student apartments with 1 to 4-bedroom layouts, fully equipped kitchens, in-unit laundry, and pet-friendly living just minutes from campus. Cooper Beech includes a resident lounge with a bistro and a game room. It also offers free printing powered by PrintWithMe for residents. - From $600 per month

2. The Grove at Ames - It offers spacious 2- and 3-bedroom layouts, private bedrooms and bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and in-unit laundry. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, basketball court, outdoor fire pit with grills, and a pool. - From $625 per month

3. The Point at Ames - It offers contemporary 2, 3, and 4-bedroom student apartments with fully furnished spaces, modern kitchens, and comfortable living areas designed for easy off-campus life. Residents enjoy a range of social and study amenities, including a 24-hour fitness centre, game room, pool, outdoor fire pits, and pet-friendly spaces. - From $715 per month

Ames offers several student-friendly neighborhoods, each catering to different needs, whether you want to live steps from campus, keep rent low, or enjoy a quieter residential setup. These areas are popular for Ames student apartments around Iowa State University and have good access to daily essentials.

1. Campustown

Campustown is the most preferred area for students who want to walk to classes and campus life. It’s packed with cafés, study spots, quick eats, and essential stores. With most Ames student housing just minutes from class, it’s ideal for those prioritizing convenience over commute time.
Average Rent: $170–$220/week

2. West Ames

West Ames is known for modern student communities with larger layouts, social spaces, and good amenities like fitness centres and lounges. Bus routes and bike paths make commuting easy, and the area balances convenience with a slightly quieter atmosphere than Campustown.
Average Rent: $160–$210/week

3. South Ames

South Ames offers a quieter, more residential feel while remaining a short commute from campus via public transport. It’s a strong choice for students eyeing affordability and space, with easy access to grocery stores and services.
Average Rent: $140–$190/week

4. North Ames

North Ames appeals to students who prefer a calm residential environment near parks, trails, and shopping centres. It’s slightly further from campus but offers more space and lower rents, making it a good match for budget-conscious students.
Average Rent: $130–$180/week

Ames offers a wide range of student-friendly room types that suit different budgets, lifestyles, and study needs. Properties listed on amber cover everything from shared apartments to fully private setups, making it easier to find apartments for rent in Ames that match individual preferences.

1. 2-Bedroom and 3-Bedroom Apartments

These are the most common room types in Ames. Students get a private bedroom while sharing the kitchen, living area, and sometimes bathrooms with one or two roommates.

2. Studio Apartments

Studio apartments Ames are fully self-contained units with a private sleeping area, bathroom, and kitchen. They offer complete independence with no shared spaces. Studios are best for students who prefer quiet living.

3. 1-Bedroom Apartments

One bedroom apartments Ames provide a private bedroom along with a separate living area, kitchen, and bathroom. These apartments suit students who want more space than a studio but still prefer living alone.

4. Shared Apartments

Shared apartments include multiple private bedrooms within one unit, with common kitchens and living areas. This setup is common in student communities and helps keep costs lower. It’s a good choice for students who enjoy group living.

5. Private Rooms

Private rooms offer a personal bedroom within a shared apartment. Students get their own sleeping and study space while sharing common areas. This option balances affordability with privacy and works well for first-year students.