City Profile
Ankeny, Iowa
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Ankeny, Iowa is a rapidly expanding suburban city located just north of Des Moines in Polk County. Originally established in 1875, it has transformed from a quiet agricultural community into one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the Midwest. Known for its exceptional public school system, safe neighborhoods, and well-maintained parks, Ankeny attracts families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
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.
How this 77/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 85 / 100 | 85.0 | 30% | 25.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 96.0 | 48.8 | 25% | 12.2 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $98,500 Income needed to live here: $52,000 Unemployment rate: 3.1% | 93.1 | 20% | 18.6 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 3.5% Job growth rate: 2.8% | 88.0 | 15% | 13.2 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 78 / 100 | 78.0 | 10% | 7.8 |
| Overall score | 77.3 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (ungrounded) (q=54, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
16 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Ankeny is generally on par with or slightly below the national average, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious families and professionals. While housing demand has driven up real estate and rental prices in recent years, everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation remain relatively affordable compared to major coastal metros. Property taxes in Iowa are a consideration, but the overall value residents receive in public services and infrastructure helps offset these costs.
Income
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Ankeny boasts a dynamic and diverse job market anchored by strong sectors in education, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and professional services. Proximity to the state capital, Des Moines, allows for easy commuting, while local employers like Ankeny Community School District, Casey's General Stores, and local manufacturing facilities provide substantial employment opportunities. The city's aggressive economic development initiatives and business parks continue to draw new enterprises, fostering healthy job growth and remote-work-friendly infrastructure.
The average salary in Ankeny is $71,000 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.
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Ankeny is primarily a car-dependent community, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for daily commuting and errands. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 35 and Highway 69 provide rapid access to Des Moines and surrounding areas, keeping average commute times reasonable. While public transit options are limited compared to larger urban centers, the city features expanding bike lanes and trail systems for recreational and local transit use.
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