Safety in Ames
Detailed safety data — sourced from authoritative datasets and normalized for direct comparison.
Safety in Ames, Iowa
Ames consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Iowa and the broader United States, boasting violent and property crime rates well below the national averages. Neighborhoods throughout the city, from the historic districts near downtown to newer residential developments on the periphery, are characterized by active community policing and engaged neighborhood associations. Residents frequently cite the low crime rate and peace of mind as primary reasons for choosing to raise families in the area.
Safety Scores
About Ames, Iowa
Ames, Iowa is a vibrant and dynamic community best known as the home of Iowa State University, which heavily influences the city's culture, economy, and youthful energy. Founded in 1864 alongside the expansion of the Cedar Rapids and Missouri Railroad, the city has evolved from a railroad hub into a major center for higher education, scientific research, and biotechnology. People are drawn to Ames for its exceptional public school system, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of civic pride that blends Midwestern hospitality with a progressive academic atmosphere.
About Iowa
Iowa, located in the Midwest, is characterized by its expansive farmlands and a generally relaxed, community-focused lifestyle. The state's economy is diverse, with major industries including advanced manufacturing, biosciences, finance and insurance, and its foundational agricultural sector, which leads in corn, soybean, ethanol, and pork production. Living in Iowa is notably affordable, with the cost of living, particularly housing, being significantly lower than the national average. The climate is humid continental, featuring hot, humid summers and cold winters, with seasonal precipitation and susceptibility to various natural disasters like snowstorms, floods, and tornadoes.
