Kelley, IA

Kelley is a quiet Story County town that offers peaceful small-town living just five miles south of Ames. Founded as a railroad stop in the late 1800s, it has developed into a relaxed, friendly community with a close-knit neighborhood feel. Residents enjoy open skies, quiet streets, and a slower pace of daily life while keeping larger city amenities within easy reach.

Local students attend the Ballard Community School District, which links Kelley to neighboring Huxley, Slater, and Cambridge. Because Ames sits just a short drive to the north, commuting to Iowa State University, major employers, shopping centers, and dining is simple. For homebuyers wanting space and simplicity close to both Ames and the Des Moines metro, Kelley offers a welcoming, convenient spot to settle down.