Westside, Ames,IA

For those considering a move to Ames, IA, the Westside neighborhood is a fantastic option to explore. Offering a charming blend of residential comfort and local amenities, Westside appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The area boasts a variety of housing styles, from cozy bungalows to more modern homes, all nestled in a friendly community atmosphere. Residents appreciate the welcoming vibe, well-maintained streets, and the abundant green spaces perfect for outdoor activities and weekend relaxation.

One of the standout attractions in Westside is the popular city park that provides ample space for picnics, jogging, and community events throughout the year. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to several local eateries and coffee shops that give it a unique, small-town charm with a modern twist. For families, nearby schools offer quality education, making it a desirable place to settle down. The Westside area also benefits from easy access to shopping centers and fitness facilities, ensuring that daily needs and recreational options are never far away.

Conveniently positioned just northwest of downtown Ames, Westside residents enjoy quick commutes to the city center, where a wider array of dining, cultural events, and entertainment options await. This proximity allows for the perfect balance of suburban peace and urban excitement. Whether you’re heading to work, visiting the local farmers market, or attending an event at the Iowa State University campus, Westside’s location makes it easy to stay connected to the heart of Ames while enjoying a quieter neighborhood lifestyle.

About 12% of the Westside 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 7% 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.

Westside 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 613 residents, Westside 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.

Boasting a population density of 6,875, Westside is more densely populated than many other Ames neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With a lower-than-average age of 23, 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 Westside crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Westside, the median home price is about $321,050, 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 Westside 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 $1,000, 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 Westside. 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 Westside 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.