Student Housing Near Iowa State University
Find verified off-campus housing near Iowa State University in Ames, IA
About Iowa State University
Iowa State University stands as a comprehensive public institution dedicated to innovation, research, and student success. With a welcoming admissions approach, Iowa State opens its doors to learners from diverse backgrounds who are ready to engage with rigorous academics and cutting-edge research opportunities. The university's strong completion rates reflect its commitment to supporting students through graduation and beyond.
Located in Ames, the vibrant college town creates a dynamic community where students thrive both academically and socially. The campus culture emphasizes collaboration, with robust student organizations and traditions that foster lasting connections among the Cyclone community. Cultural events and festivals throughout the year celebrate diversity and bring together students, faculty, and local residents in meaningful ways.
The small-city setting provides an ideal balance—offering the resources and energy of a major research institution while maintaining the accessibility and community feel of a tight-knit college town. Students enjoy walkable neighborhoods filled with local restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Living near campus means being part of a welcoming community where students can easily access classes, campus activities, and off-campus amenities, creating an enriching residential experience that extends far beyond the classroom.
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- Public
- Highest Degree
- Graduate
- Setting
- Small City
- Retention Rate
- 88%
- ACT Median
- 25
- Accreditor
- Higher Learning Commission
- Classification
- R1 Doctoral University
Cost & Financial Aid
Annual tuition and estimated costs
As a very large public university in a small city setting, Iowa State University has a range of student housing options. Exploring all available choices and planning ahead can help you manage housing expenses effectively.
- ✓Consider living further from campus if you have access to reliable transportation, as housing options may vary in availability and terms depending on proximity to the university
- ✓Look into on-campus housing options early, as these are often competitive and may offer different pricing structures than off-campus alternatives
- ✓Explore opportunities for roommate situations or shared housing arrangements, which can help distribute housing expenses across multiple people
- ✓Investigate whether your institution offers housing resources or partnerships that could provide information about available units and rental assistance programs
Living Near Iowa State University
Housing Guide for Iowa State University Students
Ames offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with excellent student housing options surrounding campus. The area combines academic energy with a welcoming community feel that appeals to both undergraduate and graduate students.
The neighborhoods closest to campus—including Old Main, Lincoln Way, and the downtown corridor—feature walkable streets lined with student apartments, historic homes converted to rental units, and new residential complexes. These areas buzz with activity and are popular choices for their convenience to classes and campus facilities.
Getting around Ames is straightforward. Biking dominates the student transportation scene, with extensive bike paths connecting residential areas to campus. Walking is practical for neighborhoods immediately adjacent to school grounds. Public transit through CyRide provides reliable bus service, and many routes are free for current students.
Downtown Ames and the surrounding commercial districts offer diverse dining experiences, from casual cafes to restaurants featuring international cuisine. Shopping options range from retail chains to independent boutiques. Entertainment includes live music venues, movie theaters, and recreational activities centered around the university's strong campus culture.
Safety is a notable strength in Ames. The community maintains active neighborhood associations and police partnerships. The college town setting fosters a genuine sense of belonging, where students, faculty, and longtime residents interact regularly, creating a secure and inclusive environment for housing seekers.
Other Housing Near Iowa State University
West Towne
West Towne is a student housing community in Ames, IA offering air conditioning, a full kitchen with dishwasher and garbage disposal, and in-unit amenities including carpet, ceiling fans, and a balcony patio. Residents have access to community features including a fitness center, clubhouse, community lounge with coffee bar, bike storage, cable TV, elevator access, and freezer storage.
Wessex
Wessex is an apartment community in Ames, IA offering amenities including a fitness center, basketball court, clubhouse, and business center. The community features controlled access, and individual units include air conditioning, dishwashers, fireplaces, ceiling fans, and balcony patios.
RES Properties
RES Properties is a smoke-free student housing community in Ames, IA, offering units equipped with in-unit washer and dryer, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and range oven. The property features air conditioning, hardwood floors, granite countertops, and common amenities including a fitness center, clubhouse, fireplace, and controlled access entry.
The Madison Apartments
The Madison Apartments in Ames, IA offers furnished student housing with a full kitchen, dishwasher, and air conditioning. The community features a fitness center, basketball court, clubhouse with lounge areas, business center, and outdoor amenities including a BBQ grill and balcony patios.
CORE Apartments
CORE Apartments is an apartment community in Ames, IA offering a range of amenities including air conditioning, a fitness center, clubhouse, and game room. The community features a full kitchen with dishwasher, granite countertops, and garbage disposal, along with outdoor spaces including a dog park, BBQ grill, and bike storage. Additional conveniences include controlled access, an elevator, car wash, and ceiling fans.
Copper Beech at Ames Apartments
Copper Beech at Ames Apartments is a fully furnished apartment community in Ames, IA, offering in-unit washer dryer and full kitchens with range ovens and garbage disposals. The community features air conditioning and heating, along with amenities including a fitness center, pool, basketball court, game room, clubhouse, community lounge, and conference room. Roommate matching services are available to help connect compatible residents.
BlockONE
BlockONE is an apartment community in Ames, IA offering individual leases and roommate matching services. Residents enjoy in-unit washer dryer, bike storage, a coffee bar, courtyard space, study rooms, and the convenience of online payments.
Eaton Residence Hall
This student housing facility provides on-campus living accommodations for university students.
Lyon Residence Hall
The residence hall provides on-campus housing accommodations for students attending the university.
Barton Residence Hall
This student housing property provides on-campus residential accommodations for university students.
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