College Creek-Old Ames, Ames,IA

For those considering a move to Ames, IA, the College Creek-Old Ames neighborhood offers a charming blend of history and modern living. Situated in the southeastern part of Ames, this area is known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a welcoming community vibe. Residents enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while still being close enough to the vibrant energy of the city. The neighborhood strikes a perfect balance between suburban tranquility and easy access to city amenities, making it an attractive option for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

One of the standout features of College Creek-Old Ames is its proximity to several local attractions. The neighborhood is near the Reiman Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden that offers stunning floral displays and seasonal events perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Additionally, the neighborhood boasts easy access to the Ada Hayden Heritage Park, where residents can enjoy walking trails, picnicking, and bird watching. For those who appreciate the arts and culture, the neighborhood is just a short drive from the Brunnier Art Museum and the Ames Center, both offering a variety of performances and exhibits throughout the year.

Convenience is a key perk of living in College Creek-Old Ames, as it is only about a 10 to 15-minute drive to Downtown Ames. This close proximity means you can easily enjoy the bustling downtown scene filled with unique shops, local restaurants, and frequent community events such as farmers markets and festivals. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading out for a night on the town, or running errands, the neighborhood’s location provides quick access to everything that makes Ames special, all while maintaining a cozy, neighborhood feel. For anyone relocating to Ames, College Creek-Old Ames offers a wonderful blend of community spirit, natural beauty, and urban convenience.

About 14% of the College Creek-Old Ames population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 11% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

College Creek-Old Ames demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 902 residents, College Creek-Old Ames is notably smaller than many other Ames neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

College Creek-Old Ames has a population density of 5,195, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Ames neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With a lower-than-average age of 22, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The College Creek-Old Ames crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In College Creek-Old Ames, the median home price is about $322,067, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in College Creek-Old Ames have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $946, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in College Creek-Old Ames combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in College Creek-Old Ames can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.