Comparing Ankeny vs Des Moines to help you choose the right place to live in Central Iowa.
By Blue Cow Moving & Storage | April 17, 2025
If you’re deciding between Ankeny vs Des Moines, you’re not alone. These two cities offer distinct experiences — and your choice will shape everything from your commute to your community connections. This side-by-side breakdown will help you compare lifestyle, schools, housing, and more.
Relocating to a new city is a big decision, especially when both options offer great value, quality of life, and growing opportunity. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a young professional, or moving your family, comparing Ankeny and Des Moines gives you the clarity to choose the setting that aligns with your pace, priorities, and budget.
Quick Overview: Ankeny vs Des Moines
Here’s a side-by-side snapshot of what you can expect when weighing these two popular locations. This chart highlights key lifestyle indicators for quick comparison.
| Category | Ankeny | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Population | ~75,000 | ~215,000 |
| Vibe | Suburban, family-focused, newer | Urban, diverse, historic |
| Commute to Downtown | 15–25 min via I-35 | You're already there! |
| Schools | Unified, highly rated | Mixed by neighborhood |
| Walkability | Low–Medium | Medium–High (East Village, Sherman Hill) |
| Housing Stock | Mostly new construction | Historic, modern, mixed-density |
In general, Ankeny offers a more suburban, residential feel that appeals to families and professionals seeking newer homes, while Des Moines brings urban energy, cultural diversity, and architectural charm. Understanding these dynamics can help tailor your home search to fit your goals.
Education and Schools
Ankeny: Entirely served by Ankeny Community School District, featuring two high schools and a consistent record of top-tier academics and facilities. Its unified school system reduces confusion for new residents and adds to the sense of community continuity across neighborhoods.
Des Moines: Served by Des Moines Public Schools. Offers career programs at Central Campus and magnet programs, but school quality can vary significantly by neighborhood. Some of the standout options include Roosevelt High School and the International Baccalaureate program.
Verdict: Families prioritizing consistent school quality often choose Ankeny. If your student is interested in a specialized track or attending a private or magnet school, Des Moines may offer more flexibility.
Housing and Affordability
| Feature | Ankeny | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | ~$290,000 | ~$220,000 |
| Housing Type | New builds, HOAs | Historic homes, duplexes, apartments |
| Property Taxes | Higher average | Lower in many areas |
Des Moines offers more variety and character, while Ankeny appeals to those seeking new, move-in-ready homes. If you value modern layouts, energy-efficient builds, and community amenities, Ankeny may check all the boxes. If you appreciate walkability, architectural charm, and budget flexibility, Des Moines has strong options in Beaverdale, South of Grand, or Drake Park.
Commute and Transportation
Ankeny: Commuters rely on I-35 with typical delays during rush hour. Fewer public transit options but manageable traffic. Many professionals commute 15–25 minutes to Des Moines, West Des Moines, or Johnston, depending on job location. New bypass routes have improved flow in recent years.
Des Moines: Ideal for working downtown with more transit access and walkable neighborhoods. The DART system provides basic service coverage, and bike lanes are growing. If you live and work downtown, car-free living is feasible. Uber and rideshare coverage is strong in both cities.
Working hybrid or remote? Ankeny offers quiet, space, and newer amenities that make it ideal for home offices and uninterrupted workdays. Des Moines may suit professionals who like having walkable coffee shops, coworking spaces, or civic events just around the corner.
Lifestyle, Events, and Amenities
| Category | Ankeny | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Nightlife | The District, casual spots | East Village, Court Ave |
| Parks & Trails | 60+ parks, access to High Trestle | Gray’s Lake, Riverwalk |
| Dining | Local gems and chains | Global cuisines and urban spots |
| Community Feel | Tight-knit, family-focused | Neighborhoods vary widely |
Ankeny excels at hosting festivals, farmers markets, and summer concerts in a clean, family-first environment. Des Moines brings nationally recognized events like the Iowa State Fair, the 80/35 music festival, and the World Food & Music Festival. Both cities have strong park systems and trail access, but Des Moines edges out in arts, museums, and live entertainment variety.
Job Markets
Des Moines: The metro’s economic center, home to Principal Financial, Nationwide, UnityPoint Health, and multiple government agencies. It’s also growing in tech, marketing, and green infrastructure.
Ankeny: Rapidly growing job base in education, logistics, and light manufacturing — with many residents commuting to Des Moines or West Des Moines. Prairie Trail and the DMACC campus are central employment hubs.
Blue Cow’s Local Insight
At Blue Cow Moving & Storage, we’ve moved hundreds of families into both Ankeny and Des Moines. Our crews know the layouts, school zones, HOAs, and shortcuts that make a difference on moving day. We’re happy to offer personalized recommendations based on your situation.
- Choose Ankeny for: New homes, excellent schools, modern conveniences
- Choose Des Moines for: Historic charm, nightlife, downtown access
Your Move Planning Checklist
- Compare commute times and local schools
- Visit neighborhoods at different times of day
- Get pre-approved and compare property taxes
- Talk to neighbors or your real estate agent
- Schedule movers early for summer or fall moves
