If you’re considering a move to Ankeny, Iowa, it’s important to look at the full picture — not just the highlights. Like any growing community, Ankeny offers a lot of advantages, but it also comes with a few trade-offs. Below, we break down the real pros and cons of living in Ankeny so you can decide if its fast growth, strong schools, and suburban lifestyle align with what you want day to day.

Pros of Living in Ankeny:

1. Fast-Growing Community with New Development

Ankeny continues to grow with:

• New neighborhoods and housing options
• Expanding shopping and dining
• Ongoing infrastructure improvements
• A newer suburban feel

This growth appeals to buyers looking for modern homes, updated amenities, and long-term value.

2. Highly Rated School District

The Ankeny Community School District is known for:

• Strong academics and test scores
• Multiple high schools and expanding programs
• Supportive student-teacher ratios
• A strong reputation within the metro

For many buyers, the school district is a major reason they choose Ankeny.

3. Cost of Living Still Reasonable

Compared to national averages, Ankeny offers:

• More home for your money
• Competitive housing options
• Lower everyday expenses than many larger metros
• Strong overall value for buyers

This balance makes Ankeny appealing for those wanting affordability without sacrificing quality of life.

4. Convenient Location

Ankeny’s location offers:

• Quick access to downtown Des Moines
• Shopping and dining throughout the metro
• Easy commuting via major highways
• A suburban feel with city convenience

You get the benefits of suburban living without feeling far from everything.

5. Strong Community Feel

Ankeny offers a strong sense of community with:

• Parks and walking trails
• Youth sports and local activities
• Neighborhood events and gatherings
• An active, connected atmosphere

Many residents are drawn to the energetic, community-focused lifestyle.

Cons of Living in Ankeny:

1. Rapid Growth = More Traffic

With continued growth comes:

• Busier roads during peak hours
• Ongoing construction zones
• Infrastructure catching up in some areas
• Longer commute times in certain spots

As Ankeny expands, traffic is one of the most common trade-offs residents notice.

2. Housing Demand Can Be Competitive

Because Ankeny is in high demand, buyers may see:

• Homes selling quickly
• Multiple-offer situations
• Less negotiating room
• Strong competition in certain price ranges

This can create a more competitive buying experience, especially for newer homes.

3. Suburban Lifestyle Isn’t for Everyone

Ankeny may feel more residential and spread out if you prefer:

• Historic architecture
• Walkable urban neighborhoods
• A downtown nightlife atmosphere
• Older, established city character

It’s best suited for those who enjoy a suburban lifestyle over an urban one

4. Winters Are Still Iowa Winters

Living in Ankeny means:

• Snow and cold temperatures
• Seasonal driving challenges
• Longer winter months
• Typical Midwest weather patterns

It’s part of the lifestyle — especially for those relocating from warmer areas.

5. Property Crime Awareness

Like many growing suburbs, residents should be mindful of:

• Occasional property-related crimes
• Theft and opportunistic incidents
• The importance of everyday safety habits
• Staying aware as the community grows

Overall, many residents view Ankeny as a well-maintained and desirable place to live. 

Final Take: Is Ankeny Right for You?

Ankeny tends to be a great fit for people who want:

✔ Newer homes and neighborhoods
✔ Strong schools
✔ Easy Des Moines access
✔ Suburban convenience with room to grow

It may not be ideal if you want:

✖ Urban walkability
✖ Older historic character
✖ A slower-growth small-town feel

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is Ankeny better than other Des Moines suburbs?

It depends. Ankeny is known for newer neighborhoods, strong schools, and continued growth. Other suburbs may offer more mature neighborhoods or a quieter, more established feel.

Is Ankeny expensive?

Compared to some surrounding areas, home prices can be higher due to demand and newer construction. Many buyers feel the modern homes, amenities, and resale potential justify the price point.

Is Ankeny safe?

Ankeny is widely considered a well-maintained, community-focused suburb with a strong reputation for livability. As with any city, residents should still use normal safety awareness.

The Bottom Line

Ankeny is one of the fastest-growing and most sought-after suburbs in the Des Moines metro. It’s ideal for buyers who want newer neighborhoods, strong schools, and a modern suburban lifestyle with convenient access to the city. It may be less ideal for buyers looking for historic charm, a slower pace, or a more walkable urban environment.

Choosing the right area ultimately comes down to how you want to live day to day.