Nursing Careers Blooming in Ankeny Now!

Living in Ankeny, Iowa, I have the privilege of calling one of the most vibrant cities in the state my home. With its flourishing community and beautiful landscape—complete with parks, golf courses, and a close-knit feel—Ankeny represents an excellent place for nursing professionals. The nursing job market here is thriving, with salary estimates for nurses averaging between $27.00 and $32.00 per hour, translating to an annual income of approximately $56,000 to $66,560. In comparison, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the national mean hourly wage for nurses is about $37.70, or around $78,000 annually, while Iowa averages sit closer to $30.00 to $34.00 hourly, or $62,400 to $70,720 annually. While Ankeny's salaries are slightly lower than national averages, many of us appreciate the lower cost of living, making our paychecks stretch farther. Nearby Des Moines sparks some competition; however, Ankeny's charm and close-knit community feel make it uniquely appealing.

The pace in Ankeny lets me focus on what matters—my patients and my growth.

Our nursing job market in Ankeny is robust and projected to grow significantly over the next few years, as the estimated demand for new nurses due to retirements and healthcare expansion will require at least 150 new nurses by 2028. With Ankeny's population hovering around 68,000, it’s easy to gauge that about 500 registered nurses are currently employed here, with that number likely to climb as new healthcare facilities continue to be built. There are opportunities for Travel Nursing, especially during peak seasons like summer and the flu season in the fall—local agencies often report an influx of postings during those times. Moreover, the per diem nursing job sector seems to be steadily growing, with estimates showing around 100 per diem positions currently available in the area. Our healthcare facilities include major employers like the UnityPoint Health – Des Moines Hospital and the Ankeny Plaza Dental Clinic, both known for their exceptional nursing staff and a range of specialties from pediatrics to geriatrics. When we compare ourselves to nearby cities like Altoona and Johnston, we recognize that although they may offer higher salaries (Altoona averaging $28-$35 hourly), our city stands out with a family-friendly atmosphere, diverse job opportunities, and a lower cost of living.

In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Ankeny boasts several hospitals, clinics, and specialized healthcare facilities that cater to a range of specialties. The well-respected MercyOne Ankeny Medical Center and the recently expanded Broadlawns Medical Center are two prominent facilities that drive demand for nursing positions. With Iowa's healthcare sector continually evolving, significant investments in new medical technologies and facilities are expected in the coming years, signaling a robust future for our nursing workforce. The city’s demographic growth, projected to increase by about 6% by 2025, coupled with an emphasis on public health initiatives addressing chronic illnesses, suggests a growing need for nursing services. As someone deeply embedded in this community, I can confidently say that our quality of life—combined with our welcoming atmosphere, cultural events, and commitment to healthcare—is what makes Ankeny not just a place to work but a place to thrive. For both current and prospective nurses, joining our healthcare community with NurseRecruiter can help connect you with amazing job opportunities right here in Ankeny and the surrounding vicinity. Employers can also benefit from NurseRecruiter by matching with dedicated local candidates ready to make a difference.