Top 50 College Towns You'll Want To Live In From Sea To Shining Sea

Lisette Marie

February 18, 2026

34. Ames, Iowa: Agricultural Innovation near Des Moines' Heartland Hub

old happy chef in Ames turned into a Mexican restaurant. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Crcjfly

Ames, the home of Iowa State University, is a global leader in agricultural and engineering research, fostering a highly innovative and welcoming community. Its friendly, Midwestern charm belies its significant academic contributions. A quick 40-minute drive leads to Des Moines, Iowa's state capital and a surprisingly dynamic economic center, particularly strong in finance and insurance. This pairing offers students a high-quality, supportive college experience with direct access to a growing urban core, blending cutting-edge research with real-world professional avenues in the heartland.

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Exploring the Top 8 Ways Rwanda's Conservation and Fiji's Sustainability Shape Our Planet's Future

February 26, 2026

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Top 50 College Towns You'll Want To Live In From Sea To Shining Sea

34. Ames, Iowa: Agricultural Innovation near Des Moines' Heartland Hub

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