Encapsulating 30 square miles of suburban land, Ankeny is the single largest suburb in the Des Moines metropolitan area, consisting of four distinct areas. In the area of Northwest Ankeny, residents have access to a number of highly rated schools, state-of-the-art public parks, and a large selection of single-family homes in planned housing developments. To the west of the neighborhood, locals can find public beaches and campgrounds situated on the Saylorville Lake waterfront. Students here can attend schools within the Ankeny Community School District, which receives an A rating from Niche and is ranked No. 1 on Niche’s “Best School Districts in Des Moines Area” list. Those who live in this area are only minutes away from Prairie Trail restaurants, Saylorville Lake and state parks; Joan Axtell, a real estate associate at RE/MAX Concepts, says, “It’s the best of both worlds.”
Northwest Ankeny.
Northwest Ankeny.
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Single-family homes in quiet residential communities
Single-family homes sit in neat rows, lining the windy roads and cul-de-sacs of planned residential communities and housing developments. Residents can find handfuls of townhomes and condominiums in this area, as well. “The turnover in home ownership here is slower, and neighbors are often long-term friends,” Axtell says, adding that many properties in this area sit on large, shaded lots with mature trees and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. New build residences, ranch-style homes and traditional-style architecture are all common home styles here. Properties often feature stone foundations and detailing, gabled roofs, and vinyl or brick exteriors. Street parking is minimal because a majority of the residences here have paved driveways and attached garages. Homes range in price from $270,000 to $480,000, with a median price of approximately $340,000.
Northwest Ankeny features a number of Modern Craftsman-inspired homes.
Modern contemporary homes are common in Northwest Ankeny.
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Ankeny schools receive state-wide recognition for high marks
Schools in the Ankeny Community School District receive high ratings and praise from the community and educators; since the mid-2000s, the district has seen an increase in enrollment and has since built a number of new schools to accommodate. Rock Creek Elementary, built in 2014, receives an A rating and serves students from kindergarten through fifth grade. Rock Creek feeds into Prairie Ridge Middle School, another A-rated institution that was named No. 5 on Niche’s “Best Public Middle Schools in Iowa” list. Students in the eighth and ninth grades can attend Northview Middle School, which is rated A and named the No. 1 Best Public Middle School in the Des Moines Area by Niche. Finally, for secondary school, the A-rated Ankeny Centennial High School, built in 2013, serves students in grades ten through 12 and sits at No. 5 on Niche’s “Best Public High Schools in Iowa” rankings.
Parents in Northwest Ankeny may send their children to Northwest Elementary School.
Ankeny Centennial High School serves the students of Northwest Ankeny.
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Hike and swim at Oak Grove Beach
Northwest Ankeny is a hub for outdoor recreation and state-of-the-art parks; from Oak Grove Beach on the Saylorville Lake waterfront to the Prairie Ridge Sports Complex at the heart of the neighborhood, there’s plenty for residents to explore. At the sports complex, residents can find baseball diamonds, tennis courts, fishing ponds and the nearby Prairie Ridge Skate Park. At Oak Grove Beach, residents can enjoy a waterfront picnic area, lake swimming and nearby hiking through a densely wooded oak tree forest. There are also a number of smaller neighborhood parks throughout the area that feature green space and playground equipment, including Boulder Brook, Village Park, Ashley Meadows and Watercrest Park.
Practice your swing at the Prairie Ridge Sports Complex field in Northwest Ankeny.
Ankeny Miracle Park provides fun for the whole family in Northwest Ankeny.
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Restaurants and grocery stores along Ankeny Boulevard
U.S. Highway 69, also known as Ankeny Boulevard, runs along the neighborhood’s eastern border and is home to several local restaurants and shopping plazas. Residents can find groceries at a number of nearby grocery stores, including Fareway Supermarket and Aldi. Locals can become immersed in a Japanese environment at Mizu Sushi Bar and Japanese Grill. Featuring an eastern-themed dining area, Mizu Sushi is known for its hibachi and its excellent service. Just up the street, on the corner of 18th Street and Ankeny Boulevard, Nonna’s Pizza and Pasta serves up fresh pizza by the slice alongside hearty pasta dishes in an Italian setting.
There are a huge variety of restaurants, shops, and amenities in Northwest Ankeny.
Northwest Ankeny.
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Interstate 35 connects commuters to Downtown Des Moines
Ankeny Boulevard runs north-south along the neighborhood’s eastern border, connecting residents to the rest of Ankeny, the city of Marquisville, Downtown Des Moines and more. The western part of the neighborhood runs along the Saylorville Lake waterfront and is home to Iowa Highway 415, which travels north toward Polk City. Running north-south adjacent to the area is Interstate 35, which runs past the Ankeny Regional International Airport and connects to Downtown Des Moines, a 13-mile drive south of Ankeny. Residents can also use the I-35 to drive approximately 18 miles to Des Moines International Airport.
Northwest Ankeny.
Northwest Ankeny.
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Community events hosted by the city of Ankeny
The city of Ankeny hosts a number of community events for everyone to enjoy; on Thursday nights in the summertime, residents can venture to the Ankeny Market and Pavilion (AMP) for Beats & Eats, which features food trucks, live entertainment and games. Each year, locals are invited to attend the All-City Play Day hosted at Hawkeye and Wagner Parks, a free celebration where attendees can find foam parties, face painting and bike rodeos for the Ankeny Police. During the warmer months, Ankeny also hosts weekly Yoga in the Park and Movies Under the Stars community events.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Northwest Ankeny neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Northwest Ankeny
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
1
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
2
4
Crime Score
2
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Northwest Ankeny Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Northwest Ankeny, Ankeny sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Northwest Ankeny, Ankeny over the last 12 months is $365,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautiful ranch-style home offering modern finishes, an open layout, and plenty of space for today’s lifestyle. With 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage, this home combines comfort and functionality in every detail.The main level features a spacious living room with a cozy electric fireplace and mantle, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen stands out
Beautiful walkout ranch in convenient NW Ankeny location! You're a short drive to the recreational activities available around Saylorville Lake, while still being close to downtown Ankeny, Des Moines and Ames. This immaculate home offers large open living/dining/kitchen area with sliders to huge deck. 1st floor BR and huge 1st floor primary suite complete this level. Lower level offers another
GET AS LOW AS 3.625% INTEREST RATE ON THIS HOME. ASK ABOUT OUR BUILDER 2/1 RATE BUY DOWN PROMOTION FOR DETAILS + OUR CLOSING COST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. Promotion expires on 2/15/2026. Only valid on non-contingent offers. Introducing the popular Yuma Expanded plan by Jerry’s Homes! This stunning home showcases a thoughtfully crafted open-concept living area, offering almost 1,600 square feet of
GET AS LOW AS 3.75% INTEREST RATE ON THIS HOME. ASK ABOUT OUR BUILDER 2/1 RATE BUY DOWN PROMOTION FOR DETAILS + OUR CLOSING COST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. Promotion expires on 2/15/2026. Only valid on non-contingent offers. Welcome to the desirable Caldwell plan by Jerry’s Homes with upgraded LP siding and a 3 car garage! This popular 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home sits on a spacious corner lot and features
*MODEL HOME NOT FOR SALE.* Open Weekly: Wed & Thurs: 11AM-3PM, Sat: 9AM-Noon, & Sun 1PM-4PM. Welcome to the Eisenhower C Ranch by Greenland Homes. With 1,218 square feet of meticulously designed living space, this ranch-style gem boasts 2 bedrooms and a host of amenities that will make you feel right at home. Upon entering, you'll be immediately struck by the abundant natural light that fills the
GET AS LOW AS 3.75% INTEREST RATE ON THIS HOME. ASK ABOUT OUR BUILDER 2/1 RATE BUY DOWN PROMOTION FOR DETAILS + OUR CLOSING COST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. Promotion expires on 2/15/2026. Only valid on non-contingent offers. Welcome to the highly sought-after Lolo Plan from Jerry’s Homes Roots Collection — now featuring an office and thoughtfully upgraded with LP siding and a spacious 3-car garage. This
Introducing the popular Yuma Expanded plan by Jerry’s Homes! This stunning home showcases a thoughtfully crafted open-concept living area, offering almost 1,600 square feet of beautifully finished space. The kitchen boasts a large island, pantry, elegant quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The living room radiates warmth with a cozy fireplace. For added convenience, a well-placed
Model open hours:Tuesday through Thursday: 2 to 6 p.m.Saturday: 9 a.m. to NoonSunday: 1 to 4 p.m. Welcome to Abraham Twin Homes by Greenland Homes—Ankeny's newest community for affordable, stylish, and maintenance-free living. Located in The Village at the Grove, this brand-new community offers thoughtfully designed twin homes with three bedrooms and two bathrooms on the main level.
GET AS LOW AS 3.75% INTEREST RATE ON THIS HOME. ASK ABOUT OUR BUILDER 2/1 RATE BUY DOWN PROMOTION FOR DETAILS + OUR CLOSING COST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. Promotion expires on 2/15/2026. Only valid on non-contingent offers. Welcome to the Cedar III – a standout design from Jerry’s Home's Century Collection! This sought-after 4-bedroom plan offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality.
Open Weekly: Wed & Thurs: 11AM-3PM, Sat: 9AM-Noon, & Sun 1PM-4PM. Greenland Homes Dogwood B Ranch Plan, home has 3 bedrooms & 2 bath areas. 1417 Sq. Ft. on the main level with an unfinished lower level already pre-plumbed for a future bathroom and wet bar making future finish much simpler. Step into the welcoming atmosphere of this home, where a well-placed mudroom & laundry room off the 3-car
GET AS LOW AS 3.625% INTEREST RATE ON THIS HOME. ASK ABOUT OUR BUILDER 2/1 RATE BUY DOWN PROMOTION FOR DETAILS + OUR CLOSING COST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. Promotion expires on 2/15/2026. Only valid on non-contingent offers. Welcome to the highly sought-after Lolo Plan from Jerry’s Homes Roots Collection — now featuring an office and thoughtfully upgraded with LP siding and a spacious 3-car garage.
Now leasing Brick Towne apartment homes, a brand new way of thinking and style of living in Ankeny, Iowa. Brick Towne features spacious one and two bedroom apartment homes crafted with the imaginative combination of modern interior finishes and a vintage brick exterior. When location is a priority, you cant beat Brick Towne, nestled in a residential neighborhood yet moments from I-35 to get to
Discover brand-new, single-story luxury homes at Savannah at Ankeny. Our 1, 2, & 3-bedroom residences feature attached two-car garages, private entries, and walk-out patios. Inside, enjoy quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, in-home laundry, walk-in closets, and 9-foot ceilings with vaulted living room and kitchen areas. The community offers a 5,500+ sq ft private residence club,
At Fieldstream Apartment Homes, we use our knowledge and experience to provide the lifestyle you deserve, for a better price. Our apartments in Ankeny, IA, boast elegant one- and two-bedroom layouts, as well as modern amenities to enhance your comfort. On top of this, our dedicated and experienced team is the perfect finishing touch to our community, ensuring you feel right at home. Keep
Now leasing Brick Towne Piper apartment homes, a brand new way of thinking and style of living in Ankeny, Iowa. Brick Towne features spacious one and two bedroom apartment homes crafted with the imaginative combination of modern interior finishes and a vintage brick exterior. When location is a priority, you cant beat Brick Towne, nestled in a residential neighborhood yet moments from I-35 to get
The Aspen Ridge Townhomes in Ankeny, IA feature:- 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathroom, 2-car attached garage- 1160 square feet- Modern finishes- All appliances includedLocated in a great location in Ankeny. Close to schools, trails, and parks.Visit for more information.
Style and elegance await you in one of the fastest growing areas in the city. Centennial Pointe West offers the feel of a family home in the comfort of a friendly neighborhood with access to schools, parks and shopping. With beautiful architecture, each building varies from the next with a variety of stone and color options. The interiors boast spacious and open floor plans and offer designer
Conveniently located on the west side of Ankeny, near I-80 and I-35, Prairie Lakes is a pet-friendly community ranging in two and three-bedroom apartment homes. Located near major freeways you have quick access around the greater Des Moines area. You're just minutes from Prairie Ridge Aquatic Center, Hy-Vee, Ankeny High School, DMACC, and High Trestle Trail. Right around the corner, near
Mixture of one and two bedroom townhomes located in NW Ankeny.One-time, non-refundable Lease Admin fee: $125Security Deposit: $550Pet Friendly! 2 pets per unit. Maximum combined weight of 50lbs per unit.Pet Placement Fee of $275. Pet Rent: $50/month for one pet, an extra $25/month for second pet. Pet Screening via
Please visit our website (Hale-Development) for available units and to schedule a showing. For further questions regarding a unit, please submit your contact information on our website through the "Contact Us" button on the unit details. The apartment homes at The Pines feature an array of modern amenities and many extras for your convenience. Choose from a variety of living spaces
Welcome! 2522 NW 14th Street in Ankeny, IA! This lovely 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence features an inviting open-concept design that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas. The wooden outdoor deck is perfect for hosting guests or savoring everyday moments. On the lower level you will be greeted with open space, additional full bathroom, and washer & dryer
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