Salaries in Ankeny, IA

Here’s a secret about Ankeny that most people miss: for a city of nearly 75,000, its job market feels less like a small town and more like a well-oiled machine. The unemployment rate is a razor-thin 2.8%, which means if you’ve got skills, you’re not just looking for work—you’re often picking between offers.

The real story here isn't just the salary numbers; it's what those dollars actually buy you. With a cost of living index of 92.7, you’re paying about 7% less than the national average for everything from groceries to utilities. That median household income of $105,862 stretches surprisingly far. The punchy takeaway? A software developer earning $124,473 here has a purchasing power equivalent to over $134,000 in an average U.S. city. It’s a bargain, frankly, especially when you look at rents—a one-bedroom apartment averaging just $787 a month. That’s not a typo.

Who’s thriving in this environment? The city’s economic engine is a mix of tech, healthcare, and education. You’ve got the obvious tech spin-offs from nearby Des Moines, but Ankeny itself is home to major employers like John Deere and a significant presence for Wells Fargo. The healthcare system is robust, and the public schools are a major draw, keeping a steady demand for teachers and nurses. It’s a practical, stable economy.

Now, the catch. While the cost of living is low, wages for some professions haven’t kept pace with the national surge. That average salary across all roles is $53,649, which is perfectly livable here but might feel tight if you’re comparing it to coastal tech hubs. This city works best for mid-career professionals, especially in tech or skilled trades, and for families looking to maximize their standard of living without the brutal expenses of a major metro.

The data below breaks down the top-paying jobs, showing both raw salaries and their adjusted value. It’ll tell you exactly where you stand in Ankeny’s efficient, affordable economy.