Ankeny Emerges as a Thriving Nursing Hub: Competitive Salaries, Job Growth, and Community-Centric Living Near Des Moines
Nestled just north of Des Moines, Ankeny is a vibrant city that has become a pivotal nursing hub in Iowa. As a resident of Ankeny, I’ve seen firsthand how our healthcare scene is growing, fueled by a population that values health and wellness. The average salary for nurses in our area ranges from approximately $60,000 to $78,000 annually, according to NurseRecruiter estimates, which is notably competitive when contrasted against the state average of about $64,000 and the national average hovering around $75,000. You can find beauty in our landscapes, from the picturesque parks like Otter Creek to the bustling community events hosted throughout the year, solidifying Ankeny as not just a place to work, but a wonderful place to live and thrive. With Des Moines being just a short drive away, it's interesting to note how our proximity to a metropolitan area can influence it, especially with Ankeny's burgeoning job market carving out its niche in the healthcare sector.
The robust demand for nursing professionals in Ankeny speaks volumes. Currently, the city is home to nearly 1,200 employed nurses, according to estimates reflecting local workforce data. Projections indicate that we will need about 200 new nurses in the next five years as healthcare systems continue to expand. Furthermore, Ankeny boasts several major healthcare facilities, including the UnityPoint Health – Methodist West and the WellSpan Health system, which are some of the largest employers of nurses in our city. In terms of travel nursing, while Ankeny isn't classified as a big hotspot, there are still opportunities primarily driven by seasonal needs in our healthcare facilities, especially during flu season or periods of increased patient admissions. Nearby cities like Ames and Urbandale offer slightly different market conditions, particularly in travel and per diem nursing roles due to our varied healthcare service demands and demographics. This differs from our competitors in the region, such as West Des Moines, which may offer slightly higher nurse salaries but don't quite match our local community feel.
Ankeny's healthcare infrastructure includes a blend of specialized clinics, rehabilitation centers, and urgent care facilities that cater to our growing population, which is nearing 70,000 and has seen a 35% growth rate over the last decade. The presence of specialized roles, such as pediatric and geriatric nursing, is increasingly necessary with the rise in demographic diversity. Recent investments in our healthcare system, like the expansion project at UnityPoint Health, signal that our community is committed to enhancing healthcare access and quality—a fact that can't be overlooked. Beyond the professional landscape, living in Ankeny means enjoying community events, local eateries, and the natural beauty that comes with Iowa's changing seasons, creating a fulfilling life for nursing professionals who call this city home. We are championing various public health initiatives, too, such as proactive immunization campaigns, which further increase nursing opportunities as we strive for healthier community outcomes. Whether you’re already here with us or considering a move, I encourage you to explore nursing job opportunities with NurseRecruiter, where both employers can post vacancies and professionals can find their perfect match amidst Ankeny’s enriching lifestyle.
