
Cheap Homes for Rent in Ames, IA from $400 (26 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Homes available for rent right now in Ames.


2117 Barr Dr

1013 28th St

1116 28th St

320 S Franklin Ave

921 Douglas Ave
Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between
Thinking about getting a co-signer for your rental application? We break down what a co-signer is, the potential benefits, and the serious risks for both parties. Find out if it's the right choice for you.

4406 Castlewood Pl

323 N Franklin Ave

4510 Twain Cir

1521 N Dakota Ave, Unit 1

3015 Kellogg Ave

2403 Knapp St
Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls
When searching for a roommate, follow this list of essential steps and set clear expectations to create a solid foundation for a harmonious living situation.

2401 Knapp St

1238 Michigan Ave

800 Crystal St, Unit 1

312 E 6th St

435 Hawthorne Ave

2319 Clark Ave
The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour
Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.

115 N Wilmoth Ave

603 E 16th St

2407 Knapp St

508 Hayward Ave

2818 Ross Rd

231 S Wilmoth Ave
Smart Renter's Guide: Calculating Affordable Rent & Housing Costs
Wondering how to determine your rental budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything from the 30% rule to hidden fees and effective budgeting strategies.

4549 Steinbeck St

215 Jewel Dr
Ames, IA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent a home in Ames?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ames 2 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $1,044 | $845 | $1,290 |
| Ames 3 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $1,610 | $800 | $2,700 |
| Ames 4 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $2,043 | $420 | $3,250 |
| Ames 5 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $2,725 | $1,800 | $3,800 |
| Ames 6 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $4,320 | $4,320 | $4,320 |
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Ames, IA Local Guide
- Ames Neighborhoods
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Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in Ames, IA
Pricing Updated: 01/24/2026Current apartment rentals in the Ames, IA area range in price from $420 to $4,320 with an overall median price of $3,398. The three Ames neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Fountainview at $800, Dauntless at $800, and Bel-Air at $420. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for Ames Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fountainview | $1,900 | $800 | 4 |
| Dauntless | $2,000 | $800 | 2 |
| Bel-Air | $2,225 | $420 | 5 |
| Old Town | $2,562 | $420 | 6 |
| East Ames | $2,875 | $420 | 10 |
| Gateway Hills | $2,887 | $800 | 6 |
| Grand Junction | $2,887 | $420 | 3 |
| Campustown | $4,320 | $420 | 8 |
| Eagle Ridge | $4,320 | $420 | 13 |
| North Ames | $4,320 | $420 | 17 |
Cheapest Available Ames Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in Ames, IA is a 3 Beds unit found at Copper Beech in the South Ames neighborhood priced from $660. Grandview Square Apartments in the Eagle Ridge neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 1 Bed apartment currently listed from $685. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Ames apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copper Beech | 3BR/3BA | 3BR,3BA | $660 |
| Grandview Square Apartments | 1 bedroom 1 bath | 1BR,1BA | $685 |
| Hickory Ridge Apartments | 0 bed, 1 bath | Studio,1BA | $725 |
| College Creek Apartments | 1 Bedroom Apartment | 1BR,1BA | $755 |
| Wyndsor Terrace | Studio | Studio,1BA | $765 |
| Hyland Apartments | 1 Bedroom Apartment | 1BR,1BA | $820 |
| 3500 Grand Ave | 1BR/1.0BA | 1BR,1BA | $825 |
| Windsor Pointe | Hickory 60% | 2BR,1BA | $825 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Ames, IA
As of January 24, 2026 the best value apartment in the Ames area is the $0.96 price per square foot 4 Bedroom/2 Bathroom Model at Tripp Street Apartments in the in the Fountainview neighborhood starting from $1,200. The second greatest value Ames apartment is the 1311 Delaware Ave Model at 1311 Delaware Ave, Unit 1 starting at $800 with a $0.67 price per square foot in the Eagle Ridge neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Ames apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tripp Street Apartments | 4 Bedroom/2 Bathroom | 4BR,2BA | $0.96 |
| 1311 Delaware Ave, Unit 1 | 1311 Delaware Ave | 2BR,1BA | $0.67 |
| The Madison | 3x3 Unfurnished | 3BR,3BA | $0.48 |
| 2405 Knapp St, Unit 2405 Knapp St | 2405 Knapp St | 3BR,1BA | $1.07 |
| Grandview Square Apartments | 2bed 1bth | 2BR,1BA | $0.77 |
| The Grove | 2BR/2BA | 2BR,2BA | $0.77 |
| Western Hills Apartments | 2 Bed/2 Bath Apartment | 2BR,2BA | $1.05 |
| Crystal Street Apartments | 2br/2ba | 2BR,2BA | $1.05 |
| The Social West Ames® | Davie - Station | 2BR,1BA | $0.71 |
| Windsor Pointe | Hickory 60% | 2BR,1BA | $1.01 |
Don't Settle: How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money
Discover the insider tips from an attorney and real estate agent on how to negotiate your next apartment lease. Find out what's on the table and what's not, so you can save money and get the best terms possible.
Read ArticleThe Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro
Moving is tough, especially long-distance. Learn how to minimize stress & expenses with proven strategies from a real estate pro, covering everything from logistics to finances.
Read ArticleCash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting
Discover how your credit score impacts your ability to lease or buy a home. Learn how credit scores are determined, how to check yours, and strategies to improve it for real estate success.
Read ArticleQuick Rent Budget Calculator
How much rent can you afford?
The common "Rule of Thumb" is that rent should be no more than 30% of your income. How much is that? Enter your monthly income and click "Calculate My Budget" to find out.
Best Local Schools in Ames, IA
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Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ames
What type of rentals are currently available in Ames?
There are currently 249 Apartments for Rent in Ames, IA with pricing that ranges from $409 to $3,330. There are also 79 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in Ames ranging from $420 to $4,320.
What is the current price range for Rental Homes in Ames?
Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in Ames ranges from $420 to $4,320 with an average monthly rent of $2,107.
How much are larger Three and Four Bedroom Rentals in Ames?
For those who are looking for larger living arrangements, Three Bedroom Apartments in Ames range from $465 to $2,370, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $800 to $2,700. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $420 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $409.
Expert Rental Resources
The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.
Articles, How-To's, and Tips

18 Must-Ask Rental Tour Questions That Reveal the Truth about a Property
Written by: Lauren Harrington
Renting your next home can feel thrilling and overwhelming at the same time.

A Renters Guide for Tips on Writing Your Notice for Not Renewing Your Apartment
Written by: Bob Mallory
Packing up everything you own to move is so stressful for many that ending your apartment lease can feel like a small or unimportant task. Ending your lease involves more than simply turning over your keys on the last day.

Renting with Roommates: Realistic Expectations for Shared Lease
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Given the high costs for housing, I have found that many people are looking for a roommate to share expenses. These arrangements can increase opportunities for more desirable and larger spaces.

Apartment Common Area Rules: What Renters Need to Know
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Back in the day when I rented one of my first apartments, the property didn’t even have laundry in the building. Now, rental properties are often competing against each other to provide the best amenities.