Top-O-Hollow, Ames,IA

Moving to Ames, IA, and considering a neighborhood that balances convenience with a welcoming community vibe? Top-O-Hollow, nestled in the southeastern part of Ames, offers just that. This charming neighborhood is known for its peaceful streets, well-maintained homes, and friendly residents, making it an ideal spot for families, young professionals, or anyone looking to settle down in a laid-back environment. The area is particularly appreciated for its access to nature, with the nearby Brookside Park providing plenty of green space for jogging, picnics, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon.

One of the standout attractions of Top-O-Hollow is its proximity to the Ames Public Library and the Ames Golf and Country Club, which are both highly valued by locals. The library is a hub of community activity, offering programs for all ages and a cozy spot for book lovers. For golf enthusiasts, the nearby country club provides a beautiful course and social opportunities to connect with neighbors. Plus, with several dining options and small shops a short drive away, residents don’t have to venture far for their daily needs or weekend fun.

Getting to Downtown Ames is straightforward and quick, typically just a 10 to 15-minute drive from Top-O-Hollow. This makes it easy for residents to enjoy the vibrant downtown scene, including its diverse restaurants, boutiques, and the bustling nightlife. Whether you’re heading out for a casual dinner, a night at the Stephens Auditorium for a concert, or exploring the local farmers market, being close to the heart of the city adds a layer of convenience that many appreciate. Overall, Top-O-Hollow combines the best of suburban tranquility with easy access to Ames's lively amenities.

In Top-O-Hollow, 19% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 19% 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.

Top-O-Hollow 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 516 residents, Top-O-Hollow 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.

With a lower than average population density of 227 people per square mile, Top-O-Hollow offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Ames neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 48, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Top-O-Hollow crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Top-O-Hollow, the median home price is about $278,000, 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 Top-O-Hollow 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 $833, 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 quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Top-O-Hollow. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Top-O-Hollow offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.