Accountant Career Guide: Ankeny, IA

If you're an accountant looking for a stable career with a lower cost of living and a strong sense of community, Ankeny, Iowa, might be a surprising contender. As a long-time observer of the Des Moines metro area, I’ve watched Ankeny grow from a quiet suburb into a bustling hub in its own right. It’s a city defined by its rapid expansion, a top-tier school district, and a job market anchored by education, healthcare, and logistics. For an accountant, this translates to steady demand across both public and private sectors, with a salary that stretches significantly further than in coastal cities. Let’s break down the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the long-term picture to see if Ankeny fits your career and life goals.

The Salary Picture: Where Ankeny Stands

When evaluating a move, the raw salary number is just the starting point. Context is everything. In Ankeny, accountants earn a median salary of $84,194/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $40.48/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $86,080/year, but the story changes when you factor in the cost of living. Ankeny’s cost of living index is 92.7 (with the U.S. average at 100), meaning your paycheck goes about 7.3% further here than the national average. In practical terms, the $84,194 salary in Ankeny has the purchasing power equivalent to roughly $90,400 in a city with an average cost of living.

The local job market is modest but stable, with 148 accountants employed in the metro area, according to the most recent data. The 10-year job growth of 4% indicates a slow but steady expansion, consistent with Ankeny’s overall economic trajectory. This isn’t a boomtown for finance, but it’s far from stagnant. The demand is steady, and competition is less fierce than in major financial centers.

To understand where your experience fits, here’s a realistic breakdown of earning potential within the Ankeny market. These ranges are based on local job postings, regional data, and market trends for the Des Moines metro.

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$55,000 - $68,000
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$70,000 - $88,000
Senior-Level	8-15 years	$85,000 - $110,000
Expert/Controller	15+ years	$105,000 - $135,000+

How Ankeny Compares to Other Iowa Cities:

• Des Moines: Salaries are typically 5-10% higher, but so is the housing cost. The commute from Ankeny to downtown Des Moines is a straightforward 15-minute drive on I-35, making it a viable option for those wanting a city salary with suburban living.
• Cedar Rapids: Home to large manufacturers like Collins Aerospace and General Mills, Cedar Rapids offers strong industrial accounting roles. Salaries are comparable to Ankeny, but the job market is more specialized.
• Davenport (Quad Cities): Salaries tend to be slightly lower, but the cost of living is also less. It’s a good option if you’re focused on logistics and manufacturing accounting.
• Iowa City (home to the University of Iowa): A university town with a focus on healthcare and education. Accountant salaries here are competitive with Ankeny, but the housing market is tighter due to the student population.

Insider Tip: The $84,194 median salary is a solid benchmark, but many local firms offer bonuses tied to firm performance or client retention. In public accounting (especially at the larger local firms), this can add 5-10% to your total compensation.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary of $84,194 sounds different on paper than it does in your bank account. Let’s run the numbers for a single filer, accounting for federal, state (5.5% for Iowa), and FICA taxes, and the local housing market.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an Accountant Earning $84,194:

• Gross Monthly Income: $7,016
• Estimated Monthly Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$1,550 (effective tax rate ~22%)
• Net Monthly Income (Take-Home): ~$5,466

Monthly Expenses (Average for Ankeny):

• 1-BR Apartment Rent: $787 (the city average)
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): $180
• Groceries: $350
• Transportation (Car Payment + Gas + Insurance): $450
• Health Insurance (if not employer-paid): $300
• Miscellaneous (Dining, Entertainment, Savings): $800
• Total Expenses: $2,867

Monthly Surplus: $2,599

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Absolutely. This is where Ankeny shines for accountants. With a monthly surplus of nearly $2,600, a homeowner has clear financial breathing room. The median home price in Ankeny is approximately $285,000. For a 20% down payment ($57,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates (~7%) would result in a monthly payment (including property taxes and insurance) of roughly $1,800 - $2,000. This is well within the budget of an accountant earning the median salary, leaving over $1,500/month for other expenses, savings, or discretionary spending. In contrast, the same salary in a city like San Francisco or New York would make homeownership nearly impossible.

Where the Jobs Are: Ankeny's Major Employers

Ankeny’s economy is a mix of education, healthcare, and a growing logistics sector. The job market for accountants is concentrated in a few key areas: public accounting firms, school districts, healthcare systems, and local headquarters of national companies.

1. Ankeny Community School District (ACSD): The district is one of the largest employers in the city, with over 2,000 employees. They have a dedicated finance department and often hire accountants for roles like accountant, accounts payable specialist, and financial analyst. The work is stable, with excellent benefits (including a pension). Hiring typically peaks in late spring for the next school year.

2. Iowa Methodist Medical Center (Part of UnityPoint Health): While the main hospital is in Des Moines, the Ankeny area has a significant clinical presence, including the UnityPoint Health Ankeny Clinic. These large healthcare systems have complex billing, revenue cycle, and financial reporting needs, creating steady demand for accountants with healthcare industry experience.

3. John Deere: John Deere’s Des Moines Works is a major manufacturing plant located in nearby Urbandale, but its financial impacts ripple through Ankeny. The company’s financial reporting and operational accounting roles often look for candidates in the metro area. These are high-paying, corporate roles that can command salaries well above the Ankeny median.

4. Local Public Accounting Firms: Ankeny is home to several mid-sized regional CPA firms (e.g., firms like Boulay, BerganKDV, and others have a strong presence in the Des Moines metro). These firms serve local businesses, agricultural clients, and nonprofits. They are often the best source of entry-level and mid-career positions, offering a clear path to partnership or senior management.

5. Target Distribution Center: Ankeny is a key logistics hub for the Des Moines metro. The Target distribution center on the city’s west side is a massive employer. While it may not hire many traditional accountants, it does employ financial analysts, cost accountants, and logistics accountants to manage its complex supply chain finances.

6. Ankeny Economic Development Authority: The city itself is a growing employer. As the city expands, its finance department grows, creating opportunities for accountants in municipal finance, budgeting, and auditing.

Hiring Trends: Demand is strongest for accountants with 3-5 years of experience, especially those who are CPA exam candidates or already licensed. There’s a growing need for accountants with skills in data analytics (Excel, Power BI) and ERP systems like NetSuite or SAP, as local businesses modernize. The 10-year job growth of 4% is modest, but it’s consistent. The best way to find jobs is through local networking on LinkedIn and attending events hosted by the Iowa Society of CPAs (ISCPA) Des Moines chapter.

Getting Licensed in IA

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Iowa is a structured process, governed by the Iowa Board of Accountancy. If you’re moving from another state, you’ll need to check reciprocity agreements, but the core requirements are similar.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Education: 150 semester hours of college credit, with a baccalaureate degree. Specific course requirements include 24 semester hours in accounting (beyond introductory level) and 24 semester hours in general business courses.
2. Exam: Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination (AUD, BEC, FAR, REG).
3. Experience: One year (2,000 hours) of work experience in accounting, which must be verified by a licensed CPA. This can be gained in public accounting, private industry, government, or academia.
4. Ethics Exam: Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam for the state of Iowa.
5. Application: Submit an application to the Iowa Board of Accountancy, including transcripts and experience verification.

Timeline & Costs:

• Exam Fees: ~$1,500 total for all four sections (varies by state).
• Application & Licensing Fees: ~$150-$250.
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,650 - $1,750 (excluding study materials and education costs).
• Timeline: The entire process, from starting your education to receiving your license, typically takes 18-24 months for a dedicated candidate. Once licensed, Iowa requires 40 hours of CPE (Continuing Professional Education) every two years to maintain your license.

Insider Tip: The Iowa Board of Accountancy is known for being efficient and responsive. If you’re already a CPA in another state, check the "substantial equivalency" rules. Iowa has adopted the Uniform Accountancy Act (UAA), so licensure for CPAs from other UAA-adopted states is often streamlined.

Best Neighborhoods for Accountants

Ankeny is divided into distinct neighborhoods, each offering a different lifestyle and price point. For an accountant commuting to a local employer, these are top considerations.

1. Northeast Ankeny (e.g., near Ankeny High School): This is the classic, established Ankeny. You’ll find 1980s-2000s homes, excellent walkability to parks like the Ankeny Centennial High School area, and a strong community feel. It’s a 10-15 minute drive to most major employers. Rent Estimate (1-BR): $800-$900/month. Ideal for those seeking a family-friendly environment with top-tier schools.

2. Southwest Ankeny (e.g., near the Target Distribution Center): This is the newest part of the city, with rapid residential development. It’s a 10-minute drive to the Ankeny Business Park and I-35. You’ll find modern apartment complexes and new construction homes. It’s less established but offers more square footage for your money. Rent Estimate (1-BR): $850-$950/month. Great for young professionals who prioritize new amenities and a shorter commute to logistics employers.

3. Downtown Ankeny: The historic downtown core is experiencing a renaissance. It’s walkable, with locally-owned coffee shops, breweries (like 515 Brewing), and the Ankeny Art Center. Housing is a mix of older apartments and renovated lofts. It’s a 5-minute drive to the Ankeny Community School District office and a 15-minute drive to Des Moines. Rent Estimate (1-BR): $900-$1,100/month. Perfect for those who value a vibrant, small-town feel with easy access to nightlife.

4. West Ankeny (near the Des Moines River): This area offers larger lots and more privacy, with a mix of older homes and newer subdivisions. It’s slightly quieter and has a more rural feel while still being part of the city. Commutes are easy via Highway 415. Rent Estimate (1-BR): $750-$850/month. A good choice for those who want space and a peaceful environment.

5. The "Ankeny Ridge" Area (East of I-35): This is a rapidly growing area with new apartment complexes and subdivisions. It’s close to the Ankeny Sports Complex and offers a quick commute to the eastern side of Des Moines. The area is more car-dependent but provides modern living at a reasonable price. Rent Estimate (1-BR): $800-$900/month. Suitable for those who are flexible on commute and want newer housing stock.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Ankeny is not a city of rapid, explosive career growth, but it is a city of sustainable, reliable advancement. The 10-year job growth of 4% tells a story of stability. For an accountant, this means you can build a long-term career here without the constant job-hopping required in larger markets.

Specialty Premiums:

• CPA License: This is the single biggest differentiator. A licensed CPA in Ankeny can expect to earn $10,000 - $20,000 more than a non-licensed accountant at the same experience level.
• Industry Specialization: Expertise in a high-demand sector like manufacturing (e.g., at John Deere or local manufacturers) or healthcare (e.g., at UnityPoint) can command a premium of 5-15% above the median.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Power BI, Tableau, or advanced Excel modeling is increasingly valuable and can lead to roles as a Financial Analyst, which often pays more than a general staff accountant role.

Advancement Paths:

• Public Accounting Path: Entry-Level Accountant → Senior Accountant → Manager → Partner/Principal. This is a long-term path that offers the highest earning potential but requires commitment to the firm.
• Corporate Path: Staff Accountant → Senior Accountant → Accounting Manager → Controller → CFO. In Ankeny, reaching Controller or CFO at a local mid-sized company (e.g., in manufacturing or distribution) is a realistic and lucrative 10-15 year goal.
• Government/Non-Profit Path: Accountant → Financial Manager → Finance Director. This path offers excellent job security and benefits but has a lower ceiling than corporate or public accounting.

10-Year Outlook: The accounting profession in Ankeny will likely see continued consolidation, with smaller firms merging or being acquired by regional players. Automation will handle more routine bookkeeping tasks, increasing the value of strategic, advisory, and analytical skills. Accountants who embrace technology and seek to become business partners to their clients or employers will thrive.

The Verdict: Is Ankeny Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Exceptional Work-Life Balance: The 40-hour work week is the norm, not the exception. Even in public accounting, the "busy season" is more predictable and less intense than in major metros.	Slower Career Velocity: Promotions and significant salary jumps can take longer than in a booming market like Austin or Nashville.
Low Cost of Living & Housing: You can afford a comfortable life and homeownership on a $84,194 salary. The financial stress is significantly lower.	Limited High-Finance Opportunities: If you're aiming for investment banking, M&A, or a CFO role at a Fortune 500, you'll likely need to move to Des Moines or a larger city.
Strong Community & Schools: Ankeny is consistently ranked as one of Iowa's best places to live, with excellent public schools and a family-friendly atmosphere.	Less Cultural Diversity: Ankeny is a predominantly white, suburban community. The cultural and culinary scene is growing but is not as diverse as a major metropolitan area.
Stable Job Market: The 148 accountants and 4% growth indicate a reliable, low-volatility job market.	Car-Dependent: While walkable in pockets, Ankeny is a suburban city built around the car. Public transportation is limited.
Gateway to Des Moines: You get small-town living with easy (15-minute) access to the amenities, airports, and broader job market of a state capital.	Weather: Winters are long and can be harsh. The "Iowa winter" is a real factor to consider.

Final Recommendation: Ankeny is an excellent choice for accountants who value stability, a manageable lifestyle, and financial security over rapid career growth and high-stakes urban living. It’s ideal for early to mid-career professionals planning to start a family, or for those seeking a "second act" in their career, prioritizing quality of life. If you’re highly ambitious and targeting a top-tier CFO role in a competitive industry, you might find the ceiling a bit low. But for the vast majority of accountants seeking a sustainable,