Ankeny, Iowa: A Thriving Community with Promising Nursing Careers and Competitive Salaries Amid Expanding Healthcare Opportunities
Here in Ankeny, Iowa, we find ourselves in a vibrant city that not only boasts a strong sense of community but also a thriving nursing job market. With newer developments alongside established neighborhoods, our city is situated just north of the state capital, Des Moines, offering a unique blend of suburban life and proximity to urban amenities. The average salary for nurses in Ankeny hovers between $31.80 to $37.55 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $66,240 to $78,000. This is comparable to the state average of approximately $31.18 per hour and the national average of about $36.22 per hour, according to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The cost of living in Ankeny tends to be lower than in larger cities, which makes nursing careers here appealing. We pride ourselves on family-friendly activities, beautiful parks, and an active, welcoming lifestyle, adding to what makes Ankeny a special place for nurses to thrive professionally and personally.
Diving deeper into our local nursing job market, the demand for registered nurses is projected to grow robustly in the coming years. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need around 190 new nurses by 2025 to fill demand driven by both the aging population and expanding healthcare services. Currently, Ankeny has an estimated workforce of approximately 1,200 nurses, which correlates positively with our growing population of around 70,000 residents. In terms of travel nursing, Ankeny sees a moderate demand, especially during peak times such as the flu season in the winter months, which attracts professionals from across the country due to our diverse healthcare facilities. The city is home to several significant employers in healthcare, including the UnityPoint Health – Iowa Methodist Medical Center and the MercyOne Ankeny Medical Center, along with numerous outpatient clinics and specialty practices. Comparing Ankeny to nearby cities like Des Moines and Ames, while both locations offer competitive salaries and opportunities, Ankeny boasts an appealing suburban lifestyle that may attract those who prefer a quieter setting.
As we explore our healthcare infrastructure, Ankeny features a range of facilities from family practice clinics to specialized hospitals, creating ample opportunities for various nursing specialties. Ongoing investment in healthcare, including expansions at MercyOne and new clinics opening, signifies a positive shift in our healthcare landscape. Our community is deeply committed to public health initiatives, evidenced by programs focusing on preventative care and wellness, which, in turn, opens new nursing roles. With a population growing steadily at about 3% annually, Ankeny presents a landscape ripe with opportunity. The dynamic blend of community life, professional opportunities in an expanding nursing job market, and our unique suburban charm makes this city not only a great place to live but also an ideal environment for nursing professionals. If you're considering advancing your career in a supportive environment, here in Ankeny, we've got options for you. I encourage you to sign up for NurseRecruiter, where you can find local job matches or, if you're an employer, post jobs to discover local nurses eager to join our thriving healthcare community.
