Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Ames, IA, offers a dynamic rental market that caters to students, professionals, and families alike. Thanks to its vibrant downtown district, proximity to Iowa State University, and extensive park system, renters enjoy a blend of urban convenience and Midwestern charm. Whether you’re seeking a modern studio near the popular Milan Square or a spacious family home in the historic East Campus neighborhood, the metro area provides a diverse array of housing options to suit every lifestyle.
Apartment seekers will find a range of choices, from efficient studios typically priced in the $900 range to larger three‑bedroom units where the average runs just above $1,100. One‑ and two‑bedroom apartments are comfortably positioned in the $900‑$1,100 spectrum, making them ideal for students and young professionals. For those preferring a house, the market includes well‑maintained single‑family homes, with one‑bedroom units starting around $800 and three‑bedroom homes often exceeding $1,700, reflecting the area’s family‑friendly appeal and access to quality schools and community amenities.
Beyond pricing, Ames boasts cultural attractions such as the Ames Historical Museum, the lively Reiman Gardens, and a bustling local food scene that enriches the rental experience. The city’s walkable neighborhoods, reliable public transportation, and strong sense of community make it an attractive destination for renters seeking both affordability and a high quality of life in central Iowa.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $910 | $835 | $675 - $1,300 | $780 - $985 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $938 | $932 | $600 - $1,599 | $800 - $1,005 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,095 | $1,020 | $569 - $1,830 | $895 - $1,275 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $1,102 | $1,099 | $391 - $2,500 | $949 - $1,210 |
| Apartment | 4+ Bedroom | $1,032 | $675 | $275 - $2,500 | $499 - $1,600 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $815 | $750 | $610 - $1,200 | $735 - $950 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $1,024 | $975 | $525 - $1,550 | $900 - $1,200 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $1,780 | $1,750 | $925 - $4,800 | $1,400 - $1,995 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $2,198 | $2,072 | $1,280 - $3,500 | $1,800 - $2,400 |
In the current period, the average rent in Ames, IA was $910 for Studio, $920 for 1 Bedroom, $1,076 for 2 Bedroom, $1,387 for 3 Bedroom, and $1,515 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.