Senior Living in Ankeny, IA
A growing Des Moines suburb where nearly 8,000 seniors enjoy affordable living with assisted living costs averaging $5,015 monthly.
2 Senior Living Communities in Ankeny
2 communities
Ankeny, Iowa, is a thriving community north of Des Moines that has become an attractive option for seniors seeking quality care at reasonable costs. With a population of 70,542 and approximately 7,949 residents aged 65 and older (11.3% of the population), Ankeny offers a welcoming environment that balances suburban comfort with accessible amenities. The city's median household income of $106,603 reflects a financially stable community with resources to support quality senior services.
While Ankeny has a relatively young median age of 33.2 years, the city has been thoughtfully developing senior-focused amenities and care options. Currently, two senior living communities serve the area, offering assisted living and related care services. The monthly cost of assisted living in Ankeny averages $5,015, which is notably more affordable than the national average of $5,900. This cost advantage, combined with Ankeny's strong sense of community, excellent recreational facilities, and proximity to Des Moines medical centers, makes it an increasingly popular choice for seniors and their families seeking quality care in Central Iowa.
Cost of Senior Living in Ankeny
Senior living in Ankeny offers excellent value compared to national averages. Assisted living communities in Ankeny cost approximately $5,015 per month, which is nearly $900 less than the national average of $5,900. For families considering skilled nursing care, the estimated cost in the Ankeny area is $7,885 monthly for semi-private rooms, significantly lower than the national average of $9,277. These costs vary based on the level of care required, apartment size, and specific amenities offered by each community. Ankeny's competitive pricing, combined with Iowa's generally lower cost of living, allows seniors to access quality care while maintaining financial stability.
Neighborhoods in Ankeny for Seniors
Uptown Ankeny
Uptown Ankeny is the historic heart of the city, centered around the charming downtown district along West First Street. This walkable neighborhood offers seniors easy access to local shops, restaurants, and community events like the Ankeny Market & Pavilion farmers market. The area features tree-lined streets with a small-town feel while maintaining proximity to modern conveniences. Seniors appreciate the neighborhood's historic character, the nearby Ankeny Art Center, and the community atmosphere fostered by local businesses. The flat terrain and well-maintained sidewalks make it particularly accessible for those with mobility considerations.
Briarwood
Briarwood is an established residential neighborhood on Ankeny's west side known for its quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere. The area offers convenient access to parks and is close to grocery stores and medical services along Delaware Avenue. Seniors living in or near Briarwood benefit from the neighborhood's peaceful environment and proximity to Prairie Trail, a multi-use recreational trail perfect for walking and light exercise. The community is well-connected to essential services, and the residential streets are safe and well-maintained, making it comfortable for aging residents who value suburban tranquility.
District at Prairie Trail
The District at Prairie Trail represents Ankeny's newer development area, featuring modern mixed-use spaces that combine residential, retail, and recreational opportunities. This walkable neighborhood centers around the extensive Prairie Trail system, offering seniors over 26 miles of paved paths ideal for walking, biking, and outdoor activities. The area includes newer construction and amenities like shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. For active seniors, this neighborhood provides excellent opportunities for social engagement and exercise, with flat, accessible pathways and proximity to medical facilities along the Southeast Delaware Avenue corridor.
North Ankeny
North Ankeny encompasses the rapidly growing residential areas north of Oralabor Road, featuring newer developments and family-oriented subdivisions. This area offers seniors a quieter, more residential setting while maintaining convenient access to essential services and major roadways like I-35. The neighborhood is home to several parks, including Kinderpark and Hawkeye Park, which provide green spaces for relaxation and gentle recreation. North Ankeny's newer infrastructure means well-maintained roads and sidewalks, and its proximity to both Ankeny's amenities and Des Moines medical facilities makes it practical for seniors seeking modern, accessible living environments.
Senior Care Options in Ankeny
Ankeny's two senior living communities primarily focus on assisted living services, providing support with daily activities, medication management, and personalized care plans. While the city currently lacks CMS-certified nursing facilities within its borders, residents have access to comprehensive skilled nursing and memory care options in nearby Des Moines, just minutes away. The existing communities in Ankeny emphasize independence with support, offering social programming, dining services, and wellness activities tailored to seniors' needs.
Healthcare & Transportation
Ankeny residents benefit from close proximity to MercyOne Ankeny Medical Center, providing emergency services, primary care, and specialized medical services within the city. Additional healthcare is readily accessible in nearby Des Moines, home to major systems including UnityPoint Health and MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center. Transportation options for seniors include the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART), which offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities. Many senior living communities provide scheduled transportation for medical appointments and shopping. While Ankeny is primarily car-dependent, key areas like Uptown and the Prairie Trail district offer walkable access to services.
Activities & Recreation Near Ankeny
Ankeny offers abundant recreational opportunities for seniors, headlined by the extensive Prairie Trail system with over 26 miles of paved paths perfect for walking and leisurely cycling. The Ankeny Community Center provides fitness classes and social programs, while numerous parks including Hawkeye Park offer peaceful green spaces. Cultural engagement is available through the Ankeny Art Center and regular community events at the Ankeny Market & Pavilion. Seniors enjoy easy access to shopping, dining in historic Uptown, and entertainment venues throughout the city.
Weather & Climate in Ankeny
Ankeny experiences a full four-season climate typical of Central Iowa, with warm, humid summers where temperatures often reach the 80s and cold winters with average highs in the 20s-30s and regular snowfall. Seniors should prepare for seasonal variations, including hot July and August weather and potentially challenging winter conditions that may limit outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather with mild temperatures ideal for enjoying the city's trails and outdoor spaces.
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