Ames, IA metro area Housing Market
Cool MarketComprehensive housing market data for the Ames, IA metro area metro area. Track home prices, inventory, days on market, and competition — updated monthly for real estate investors.
Data period: January 2026
Median Sale Price
$282K
↓ 0.4% YoY
Days on Market
56 days
↑ 30.2% YoY
Active Inventory
241
↑ 14.8% YoY
Homes Sold
67
↑ 17.5% YoY
Cool Market
Buyer activity is slowing, creating more negotiating room.
Ames, IA metro area Market Summary
The Ames, IA metro area housing market is cooling down. As of January 2026, the median home sale price is $282K, down 0.4% year-over-year. Homes are spending a median of 56 days on the market, 30.2% longer than a year ago.
There are 241 homes for sale — 14.8% more than last year. With 3.6 months of supply, this is a seller's market. 97 new listings were added during this period, down 5.8% year-over-year.
Homes are selling for 97.2% of their list price on average, suggesting room for negotiation. 14.9% of homes sell above their asking price. 27.4% of listings have had a price drop.
Market Opportunity Score
Based on current market conditions
73
Contributing Factors
How This Market Compares
vs. National Median
vs. Iowa Median
Investor Takeaway
The cooling market may present buying opportunities with less competition and more negotiating leverage. A significant share of sellers are cutting prices, which can signal motivated sellers and potential deals. Prices are 33% below the national median, which could indicate stronger cash flow potential.
Ames, IA metro area Market Trends
Median Sale Price
Median Days on Market
Active Inventory
Homes Sold
Price per Square Foot
Sale-to-List Ratio
New Listings
Listings with Price Drops
Detailed Market Metrics
Median List Price
$325K
Price per Sq Ft
$185
Sale-to-List Ratio
97.2%
Months of Supply
3.6
Sold Above List
14.9%
Price Drops
27.4%
New Listings
97
↓ 5.8% YoY
Pending Sales
92
Off Market in 2 Weeks
27.2%
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Try It FreeHousing market data provided by Redfin, a national real estate brokerage. Not financial advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making investment decisions.