Learn About Ames

Beneath the small town charm of Ames, Iowa, beats the heart of a much larger city. With a population of more than 65,000, Ames offers cultural, recreational, educational, business, and entertainment amenities more common in bigger metros. As a growing city, Ames continues to focus on building a strong community filled with opportunities for all. There are so many reasons that Ames, Iowa, is the Smart Choice!

Location and Economy

Centrally and conveniently located in the heart of the Midwest and Iowa, Ames is known for its robust, stable economy, flourishing cultural environment, comprehensive medical care, top-quality schools, acres of parks and recreational opportunities, and the world-renowned Iowa State University.

In 2022, Ames was ranked one of the “Top 100 Best Places to Live” by Livability, No. 1 “Best States to Retire in 2021” by MoneyRates, No. 21 “Most Livable College Towns” by SmartAsset, and No. 5 “Best Iowa High Schools” by US News & World Report.

These awards highlight the wonderful aspects of Ames that residents have enjoyed for years – friendly people, beautiful parks, great shopping, progressive schools, cultural and entertainment venues, quality healthcare, and recreational opportunities in every season.

Education

Home to Iowa State University, Ames not only educates students from around the globe, but has become a player in developing the world's bio-economic future. No visit to Ames would be complete without experiencing Iowa State University. The campus boasts large expanses of green space, attractive buildings, and approximately 30,000 students. The University brings excitement and vitality to our city and provides cultural and entertainment options typically found only in larger cities.

Ames is a city offering top-quality education from kindergarten to advanced degrees, and Ames High School routinely boasts high numbers of National Merit Scholar Finalists. Small class sizes and experienced teachers with advanced degrees make the schools districts serving Ames the example for others.

Healthcare

As the medical hub for multiple counties, health care in Ames is accessible and advanced with medical professionals offering state-of-the-art medical intervention close to home.

Business and Industry

Located along Highway 30 and Interstate 35 in Iowa's Cultivation Corridor, Ames is an attractive location for new businesses to locate and for existing businesses to expand. World class companies including 3M, Barilla, BASF, Boehringer Ingelheim, Hach, Danfoss, Syngenta, and many others are located in Ames. The community's commitment to excellence is contagious.

Recreation

Enjoy the outdoors? Ames offers four seasons of recreational activities through more than 38 parks, 55 miles of bike trails, golf courses, and more. The Parks and Recreation Department offers approximately 180 athletic, aquatic, instructional, and wellness programs. Indoor programs are provided throughout the winter at the Community Center and Ames/ISU Ice Arena.

Ames and Iowa State University together offer an unsurpassed quality of life. Ames, Iowa is your Smart Choice!

City Government

Ames operates under a Mayor-Council form of government with a City Manager. The principle of this type of government is that the Council sets policy and the City Manager carries it out.

Population

Based on the 2020 census, the population for Ames, Iowa, is 66,427. This number includes students attending Iowa State University who reside in Ames during the school year or longer.

City Manager

The City Manager is the City’s chief administrator. The City Manager appoints all department heads and is responsible to the Council for proper administration of all city business, and for the annual budget.

City Manager
Steve Schainker
steve.schainker@cityofames.org

Assistant City Manager
Brian Phillips
brian.phillips@cityofames.org

Assistant City Manager
Pa Goldbek
pa.goldbeck@cityofames.org

City Attorney

The City Attorney represents the City before any court of law or tribunal and prosecutes or defends all actions or proceedings on behalf of the City. The City Attorney can also act as a legal adviser on official business to all City officials, boards and commissions.

City Clerk

The City Clerk keeps an accurate record of all proceedings, including all rules and ordinances adopted by the Council. The City Clerk has various duties including issuing licenses and permits, has custody of bonds, contracts and other legal documents, and serves as Deputy to the Story County Commissioner of Elections. For information about City Council meetings, the agenda, voter registration or polling places, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 515-239-5105.

Mayor

The Mayor is elected for a four-year term. The Mayor presides at Council meetings and appoints members of various city boards, commissions, and committees with the approval of the Council.

City Council

The six members of the Council are elected for staggered four-year terms. One member is elected from each of the four wards and two are elected at large. The Council appoints the City Attorney and City Manager.

Wards / Precincts / Maps

Ames has four wards and 24 precincts. Maps are available in the Auditor’s Office at the Story County Courthouse in Nevada. Contact the Auditor's Office by calling 515-382-7210.