Student housing near Iowa State University

Students looking for Iowa State University student housing can choose from university halls, PBSA, and private/shared apartments in Ames. Depending on the rental price you’re looking for, you can expect to pay between $549 and $809 per month. While university halls offer a traditional experience and easy access to university facilities, Iowa State University off-campus housing offers more privacy, flexibility with leasing options, larger spaces, and access to modern living amenities.

At University Living, we provide verified accommodations to students, considering both academic and personal requirements. With 10 years of experience, 12 million students registered worldwide and a presence in more than 640 cities with more than 65,000 properties, we make your booking easy. Before finalizing a decision, students can take advantage of flexible options, by looking for the right price, the correct location and the right type of room they would like to rent.

Whether you need affordable or expensive student housing in the United States of America, University Living has you covered. Renting shared flats and en-suites makes more sense for students who are keen on saving and enjoying socialization activities. However, student studio apartments are perfect for individuals who want solitude. Each booking provides you with trustworthy privileges like verified properties, no visa no pay option, help with booking, and ULInfinity services, such as travel and health insurance.

Founded in 1858, Iowa State University (ISU) is a prestigious public land-grant and space-grant institution with a strong focus on academics, innovation, and research excellence. As an R1 doctoral university with high research activity, ISU is recognized worldwide for its contributions in various fields. It ranks at #117 in the national universities ranking and #76 in the QS World University Rankings: USA. Focused on career development, ISU has provided some of the best employment outcomes through its STEM-based programs, partnerships with industries, and extensive connections with corporates. The university is most famous for its agricultural sciences and engineering programs, but it also has highly-regarded programs in Veterinary Medicine, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Pre-Law education.

Iowa State University provides a vibrant and diverse learning environment for its vast global student community of more than 30,400 students, including around 25,600 undergraduates and 4,800 graduates and professional students. The university has around 2,800 international students coming from more than 115 countries, thus providing a diverse and colorful campus experience. Students also get the perks like world-class research facilities, industrial collaborations, and a great alumni network across 150 countries.

The students looking for student dorms near Iowa State University can select from a range of contemporary apartments and shared properties with a rent ranging from $549 to $809 a month. These housing choices include options such as individual rooms for rent, shared rental apartments, studios, or multiple bedrooms. Almost all of these places have their own share of advantages too and may offer facilities such as full furnishing, strong wi-fi connection, fitness centers, study lounges, washing services, parking spaces, open recreational areas and meeting spaces.

Here are some of the best student apartments in Iowa:

The Edge (Blockone), Ames

• Address: 2320 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50014, United States

• Proximity: Around 5–10 minutes walking, 2–3 minutes by car, or 5 minutes by CyRide/public transport from Iowa State University campus.

• Highlights: Features modern furnished apartments, study areas, fitness facilities, social lounges, and student-focused amenities.

• Best for: Students who want a lively community atmosphere with quick access to campus.

The Point Ames

• Address: 3306 Lincoln Way Ames, IA 50014

• Proximity: Approximately 25–30 minutes walking, 5–7 minutes by car, or 10–15 minutes by CyRide/public transport from Iowa State University.

• Highlights: Offers comfortable student apartments with furnished living spaces, community amenities, and convenient access to restaurants and shopping areas.

• Best for: Students looking for affordable and social off-campus housing.

Grove at Ames

• Address: 1407 S Grand Ave, Ames, IA 50010, USA

• Proximity: Around 20–25 minutes walking, 5 minutes by car, or 10–12 minutes by CyRide/public transport from Iowa State University.

• Highlights: Provides spacious apartments, recreational facilities, resident community areas, and comfortable layouts.

• Best for: Students seeking a balance of privacy, comfort, and student-friendly living.

Copper Beech at Ames

• Address: 1717 S Grand Ave, Ames, IA 50010, USA

• Proximity: About 20 minutes walking, 5 minutes by car, or 10–15 minutes by CyRide/public transport from Iowa State University.

• Highlights: Includes spacious apartment options, furnished units, community spaces, and convenient amenities.

• Best for: Students who prefer larger living spaces in a quieter residential setting.

23Twenty (Blockone) Ames

• Address: Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50014

• Proximity: Approximately 5–10 minutes walking, 2–3 minutes by car, or 5 minutes by CyRide/public transport from Iowa State University.

• Highlights: Provides modern student apartments with furnished rooms, study spaces, fitness facilities, internet access, and social areas.

• Best for: Students wanting contemporary housing with strong community features.

Note: Book safe, verified, and affordable student studios near Iowa State University with University Living today!

The cost of living in Ames for students ranges from $1,080 to $1,680, depending on what lifestyle and accommodation they choose. Usually, student housing in Ames will cost anything between $450 and $950, and the cost of food will be between $300 and $400. Apart from these, students should also consider budgeting $80 to $130 for bills, $50 to $80 for their internet and phone, $0 to $20 for transport (thanks to free access of CyRide for students), and an additional $100 to $200 for any personal expenses or any other miscellaneous costs that may arise. By planning for the costs in advance, students are able to manage their finances and have a good life as students in Ames.

Note: Students must remember that these figures are just an estimation and for a more accurate calculation, you can use the Cost of Living Calculator by University Living.

The tuition fees at Iowa State University for international students ranges between $29,800 and $34,500 per year. This cost various depending on the courses lab, orientation and other practices.

Regardless of whether you prefer a lively social scene, tranquil environment, or inexpensive housing options, you can find various neighborhoods in Ames that meet your requirements, offering easy access to the campus, and rich in facilities.

• Campustown: This is the top neighborhood for Iowa State University students, due to its great location and vibrant college life. It is located within 0.5 miles from campus, and students can either walk to their classes in 10 minutes or get there by CyRide in just 2–5 minutes. The neighborhood is packed with cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Students love Stomping Grounds, the best cafe for coffee and breakfast, and Welch Avenue has trendy nightlife spots like Mickey's Irish Pub, Es Tas Bar & Grill. Average monthly rent is around $972, with various rentals from shared apartments to studios.
• West Ames: It is perfect for students looking for a calm setting while still being close to campus. The community is located 1.5 to 2.5 miles from Iowa State University, which is about a 10–15 minute ride via CyRide to reach campus. The community is home to The Social West Ames with its resort-style pools, gyms, and other amenities. It is also near Brookside Park for those wanting to enjoy the outdoors and West Hy-Vee for those who want to go shopping or run errands. The average rent per month is roughly $928 per month and is a great deal for students sharing a townhome.
• Downtown Ames: The city has a colorful downtown area that is full of culture, history, and local businesses, making it a good option for upperclassmen and graduate students. The downtown area is located 1.5 to 2 miles away from the campus. It takes around 10–12 minutes to get there by CyRide. Students are able to enjoy the culture at the Octagon Center for the Arts, shop in local boutiques, and spend time at the Farmers' Market or Torrent Brewing Company. The average rent in downtown Ames is around $950 per month.
• South Ames: Affordability is one of the many features of the neighborhood of South Ames, which is a highly desirable residential area. South Ames also boasts of convenience with its distance of just 1 to 2 miles from the campus. CyRide can take you to campus in 8 to 12 minutes, and driving to campus will take you only 5 minutes. The neighborhood is also famous for being the home of the Jack Trice Stadium and the Iowa State Center. The neighborhood attracts students on the day of the Cyclone game, too. Gateway Park offers various recreational activities such as hiking and disc golf. The average rent in South Ames stands out at $911 per month.

Getting around Ames is easy and inexpensive for the students at Iowa State University. There are different transportation options ranging from free campus buses to regional transportation services. Most streets lead easily to campus locations, popular neighborhoods, and surrounding cities. Daily commuting is convenient, making weekend trips easy as well.

• CyRide Bus System: This system is the most widely used transport for students at Iowa State University. Students can ride free of charge on any of the fixed routes if they present a current ISU Student ID. Bus services operate from 6:00 AM to 12:00 midnight on weekdays. The Moonlight Express offers bus rides on weekends until 3:00 AM. Some major bus stops are the ISU Memorial Union, Ames City Hall, and The Hub, among others.
• ISU Campus Shuttles: The ISU Parking Shuttle is available for students, staff, and visitors who need to travel from the parking lots to the university campus. The shuttles are free of charge. The service runs from Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM to suit the university timetable. The commonly used boards for boarding include the Lied Recreation Athletic Center Loop and the Iowa State Center (Lot 63).
• Regional and intercity buses: Students, who have to travel outside Ames, can use Jefferson Line and Express Arrow regional trains. The price for travelling on such buses can be from $20 to around $60. Students can also use the College Student Discount program and receive a 15% discount. The above-mentioned services operate from 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM on a regular basis, connecting Ames with the big cities and airports. The majority of buses leave from the Intermodal Facility in Campustown.