Side-by-side comparison of two top Des Moines metro suburbs — prices, schools, commute, amenities, and lifestyle.
Ankeny is the better choice if you prioritize best balance of schools, amenities, and price. Watch out for: less brand-new construction than Waukee.
Johnston is the better choice if you prioritize top-3 school district in Iowa. Watch out for: less new construction than Waukee or Grimes.
| Factor | Ankeny | Johnston |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $315,000 | $340,000 |
| Population | ~68,000 | ~24,000 |
| County | Polk | Polk |
| School district | Ankeny CSD (top 5 in Iowa) | Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa) |
| Commute to downtown | 15-20 min to downtown | 15-20 min to downtown |
| Vibe | value + amenities + strong 55+ market | established, top schools, mature trees |
| Amenities | Prairie Ridge, Uptown Ankeny, DMACC | Terra Park, Johnston Trail |
Ankeny sits in Polk County with a population of about ~68,000. The vibe is value + amenities + strong 55+ market, with amenities including Prairie Ridge, Uptown Ankeny, DMACC. Median home prices run around $315,000 with a 15-20 min to downtown.
Schools in Ankeny: Ankeny CSD (top 5 in Iowa).
Johnston sits in Polk County with a population of about ~24,000. The vibe is established, top schools, mature trees, with amenities including Terra Park, Johnston Trail. Median home prices run around $340,000 with a 15-20 min to downtown.
Schools in Johnston: Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa).
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