Land Market Insights and Pricing in Story County, Iowa

Story County, Iowa, offers a diverse landscape of flat to gently rolling plains, shaped by glacial activity and dominated by fertile agricultural land. The county's 573 square miles feature the South Skunk River and a network of smaller streams, providing ample opportunities for both farming and recreation. As the geographical center of Iowa, Story County boasts excellent connectivity with major highways like I-35 and US-30 intersecting in Ames, the county's economic hub and home to Iowa State University. The presence of three rail lines enhances transportation options for landowners. While the county's 1.47% property tax rate exceeds the national average, potential buyers benefit from a strong local economy anchored by educational and healthcare sectors. With a median home price of $243,600 and a labor force participation rate of 65.9%, Story County presents an attractive mix of affordability and economic stability for land investments.