So, My partner and I are With a population of 70,542, Ankeny is a smaller city. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Should I be concerned? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to.
12 upvotes
12 Replies
Melanie Kelly
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 12 years. Moved from Dallas for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are excellent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Rising rent and home prices. Limited shopping options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Aaliyah R.
Moved here from Nashville about 3 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to food scene but Hope this helps!.
36 upvotes
Kinsley G.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Raleigh about 9 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are competitive, gas is underrated.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
33 upvotes
Levi Garcia
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely decent and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (North) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
29 upvotes
Amelia
couldn't agree more
24 upvotes
mountain_hunter72
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is tough in most areas.
21 upvotes
Luca Price
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Chicago about 12 years ago. The main reasons were work and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Affordable housing options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are established, gas is solid.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Good luck with whatever you decide..
20 upvotes
Bruce J.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from LA about 11 years ago. The main reasons were weather and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Affordable housing options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is solid.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Jameson Gomez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Chicago about 8 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are established, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
15 upvotes
Nora Green
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Denver about 10 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong job market in several industries
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are wild, gas is solid.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Brielle M.
this is the way
11 upvotes
Madelyn Alvarez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 12 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into running, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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