Ames, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
67,669
2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,991/yr
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
28,041
1.2% year-over-year change

Ames population

How many people live in Ames

Ames is home to 67,669 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53% of Ames locals are male, and 47% are female.

Total population
67,669
2.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53%
35,833
Female
47%
31,836
Value Percent YoY change
Male 35,833 53% 2.4%
Female 31,836 47% 2.3%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Ames is 23, with the population distributed as follows: about 8.8% are children under 15, then 46% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.1% of the population, while another 13.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
23.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
8.8%
15 to 24
46%
25 to 44
21.1%
45 to 64
13.1%
Over 65
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,949 8.8% -2.9%
15 to 24 31,101 46% 4.3%
25 to 44 14,280 21.1% -1.2%
45 to 64 8,845 13.1% 2.7%
Over 65 7,494 11.1% 5.7%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Ames, 87% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78.2% of locals are Caucasian, 3.9% are African American and 9.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.3%
Non-citizens
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 58,851 87% 1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,574 5.3% 8.0%
Non-citizens 5,244 7.8% 11.5%
Racial breakdown
White
78.2%
Black or African American
3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
9.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
5.9%
Other
1.9%
Value Percent
White 52,901 78.2%
Black or African American 2,664 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 419 0.6%
Asian 6,310 9.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 110 0.2%
Two or more races 3,982 5.9%
Other 1,283 1.9%

Households in Ames

A peek inside Ames households

Ames has 25,785 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 38% are families, while the remaining 62% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
25,785
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
15,977
Family households
9,808
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,977 62% 3.3%
Family households 9,808 38% -1.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Ames

The housing landscape of Ames

Ames's housing consists of 28,041 units, with 38.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
28,041
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,714 38.2%
1 unit, attached 1,827 6.5%
2 units 912 3.2%
3 or 4 units 1,279 4.6%
5 to 9 units 1,899 6.8%
10 to 19 units 4,422 15.8%
20 to 49 units 4,114 14.7%
50 or more units 2,024 7.2%
Mobile home 844 3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
639
30.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ames

In Ames, the median construction year is 1992. About 9.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,594 9.2% -1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 543 1.9% -18.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,175 7.8% -4.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,557 9.1% 8.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,307 11.8% 4.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,226 7.9% 1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,962 14.1% -7.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,120 18.3% 2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,918 17.5% 5.5%
Built in 2020 or later 639 2.3% 30.7%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Ames occupancy rates

Out of the 25,785 occupied housing units in Ames, 42.1% are owner-occupied, while 57.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
25,785
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,934
Owner occupied
10,851
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,934 57.9% 2.8%
Owner occupied 10,851 42.1% -0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
8.0%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Ames housing costs

Housing costs in Ames come to a median of $1,070 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,023.

Median housing costs per month
$1,070/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Ames
$1,023/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Ames

Ames education at a glance

About 15.8% of the population in Ames went to high school, while 38.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 22.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 171 0.3% -24.7%
High school diploma 9,478 15.8% 9.1%
College diploma 23,411 38.9% -1.8%
Associate degree 3,853 6.4% -1.8%
Bachelor's degree 13,286 22.1% 7.1%
Graduate degree 9,923 16.5% 5.2%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Ames

How much people earn in Ames

The average annual household income in Ames was $86,019 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,991, reflecting a +1.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ames
$86,019/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ames
$60,991/year
1.5% year-over-year change

Ames income by age

In Ames, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,277. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $102,725 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,003, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $71,689 in earnings. Overall, 74.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,003 4.0%
25 - 44 $62,277 -3.9%
45 - 64 $102,725 8.1%
Over 65 $71,689 -2.5%
Above poverty level
40,886
Below poverty level
13,972
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 40,886 74.5% 2.7%
Below poverty level 13,972 25.5% -0.1%

Average renter income in Ames

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Ames, their median household income was $35,527 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,527
Rent-to-income ratio
34.6%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Ames

Workforce and job types in Ames

The job market in Ames is powered by 38,134 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.2% run their own businesses, 54.7% are employed by private companies, and 30.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
38,134
6.5% year-over-year change
White collar
32,440
Blue collar
5,694
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 32,440 85.1% 6.6%
Blue collar 5,694 14.9% 6.0%
Employer type
Self employees
6.2%
Private companies
54.7%
Governmental workers
30.2%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,344 6.2% 9.7%
Private companies 20,856 54.7% 6.5%
Governmental workers 11,525 30.2% 2.9%
Not for profit companies 3,409 8.9% 18.4%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
-3.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ames stands at 5.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Ames

How people get around in Ames

In Ames, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 69.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
-2.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 25,914 69.9% 2.9%
Bus or trolleybus 2,043 5.5% 1.9%
Motorcycle 4 0% -20.0%
Bicycle 634 1.7% 14.0%
Walk 3,767 10.2% 37.6%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Ames by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50010 33,799 14,233 $65,398 $87,894
50012 1,913 4 $0 $0
50014 32,958 13,511 $60,731 $91,759

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FAQs about Ames demographics 

What is the total population of Ames?

Ames has a total population of 67,669 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +2.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ames?

The gender ratio in Ames is as follows:
  • 53% males (35,833 residents)
  • 47% females (31,836 residents)

What is the median age in Ames?

The median age in Ames is 23.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ames?

The age distribution in Ames is as follows:
  • Under 15: 8.8% (5,949 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 46% (31,101 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.1% (14,280 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 13.1% (8,845 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.1% (7,494 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ames?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ames is as follows:
  • White: 78.2% (52,901 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.9% (2,664 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (419 residents)
  • Asian: 9.3% (6,310 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (110 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.9% (3,982 residents)
  • Other: 1.9% (1,283 residents)

What percentage of the population in Ames are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 87% of the population in Ames.

How many housing units are there in Ames?

There are 28,041 housing units in Ames, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Ames and what is the average household size?

Ames has a total of 25,785 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ames?

Ames has a median household income of $60,991, representing a +1.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Ames?

The employment rate is 94.2% in Ames, with a workforce of 38,134 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.1% (32,440 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.9% (5,694 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.2% (2,344 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.7% (20,856 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 30.2% (11,525 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (3,409 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025