Construction Manager in Ankeny, IA

The Salary Picture: Where Ankeny Stands

If you’re considering a move to Ankeny as a Construction Manager, the first question is about the paycheck. Let’s cut through the noise and look at the data. The median salary for a Construction Manager in the Ankeny metro area is $105,840 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $50.88. This is based on local job market data, reflecting the specific demand and cost structures of our region. It’s important to understand that this median figure represents the midpoint—half of the managers here earn more, and half earn less. It’s a solid foundation, especially when you consider the local cost of living.

To provide a clearer picture of potential earnings, let’s break this down by experience level. This table is based on regional adjustments to national data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job postings.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Ankeny)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-3 years	$78,000 - $90,000	Project coordination, subcontractor liaison, on-site supervision under senior staff, safety compliance.
Mid-Career	4-8 years	$95,000 - $120,000	Full project management (budget, schedule, scope), client communication, permitting, quality control.
Senior-Level	9-15 years	$115,000 - $140,000+	Complex commercial/industrial projects, multi-project oversight, business development, strategic planning.
Expert/Executive	15+ years	$135,000 - $165,000+	Division leadership, corporate strategy, high-value client relationships, major business development.

How does Ankeny stack up against other Iowa cities? The national average for Construction Managers is $108,210, so Ankeny is slightly below the national median. However, when you factor in Iowa’s lower cost of living, this salary often provides a higher standard of living. Compared to Des Moines (the state capital, about 12 miles south), salaries can be slightly higher due to the dense cluster of corporate HQs and complex downtown projects, but the competition is also fiercer. Other mid-sized Iowa markets like Cedar Rapids or Davenport often see salaries in the $102,000 - $106,000 range, making Ankeny competitively aligned. The key differentiator for Ankeny is the explosive growth in specific sectors like data centers and advanced manufacturing, which can push compensation into the higher brackets for managers with the right specialty skills.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $105,840 salary sounds great, but what does it mean for your monthly budget? Let’s be direct. Iowa has a progressive income tax system, and assuming you’re single with no dependents and take the standard deduction, your take-home pay after federal and state taxes will be approximately $7,800 - $8,000 per month. This is a conservative estimate that doesn’t account for pre-tax benefits like health insurance or 401(k) contributions, which would increase your take-home slightly.

Now, let’s layer in housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ankeny is $787/month. This is significantly lower than the national average and is a major reason why salaries here go further. Let’s look at a realistic monthly budget for a mid-career Construction Manager earning the median salary.

Monthly Budget Category	Estimated Cost	Notes & Insider Tips
Net Income (After Taxes)	$7,900	Based on a single filer, no dependents.
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$787	This is for a standard market-rate unit. Luxury complexes in Prairie Trail can run $1,100+, while older stock near downtown can be found for under $700.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$180 - $220	Ankeny has mild winters but hot summers. Budget for higher AC bills in July/August.
Groceries & Household	$500 - $600	Ankeny has several Hy-Vee and Fareway stores; Aldi offers budget options.
Transportation (Fuel, Insurance, Maintenance)	$350 - $450	Most residents rely on cars. Commutes are short (10-20 mins), so gas costs are manageable.
Health Insurance & Personal Care	$300 - $400	If employer-provided, this cost drops significantly.
Entertainment & Discretionary	$500 - $700	This includes dining, hobbies, and weekend trips to Des Moines.
Savings & Investments	$2,000 - $3,000	This is the key benefit. After all necessities, you can comfortably save 25-38% of your income.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Ankeny hovers around $290,000 - $315,000. With the budget above, saving a 10% down payment ($30,000) is achievable in 12-15 months. A 30-year mortgage at current rates (around 7%) on a $300,000 home would have a principal and interest payment of approximately $1,995/month. Adding taxes and insurance pushes it closer to $2,400/month. This is more than rent, but it’s a manageable 30% of the $7,900 net income, well within standard affordability guidelines. Many local managers choose to live in Ankeny for the schools and community, then commute to higher-paying jobs in Des Moines or West Des Moines.

Where the Jobs Are: Ankeny's Major Employers

Ankeny’s construction market is a unique blend of residential, commercial, and a booming industrial sector. The job market here is robust, with approximately 148 Construction Manager positions in the metro area. The 10-year job growth is projected at 8%, which is steady, driven by the city’s rapid population expansion. Here are the specific employers you need to know:

1. Hinkle Hardscapes: While technically a specialty contractor (they do high-end patios, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens), they operate with a project management structure similar to a GC. They are a leader in the residential design-build sector and often hire managers to oversee their complex custom projects. Hiring trend: Steady growth, expanding into commercial outdoor spaces.

2. The Weitz Company: A national contractor with a major office in nearby Des Moines, Weitz is a powerhouse in healthcare, commercial, and industrial construction. They are involved in some of the largest projects in the region, including the ongoing expansion of Iowa Methodist Medical Center. They frequently hire from the Ankeny talent pool. Hiring trend: High volume, looking for managers with BIM and LEED AP credentials.

3. Oakridge Neighborhoods: A major local and regional homebuilder. They have multiple developments in Ankeny, such as the Twin Lakes area. Their project managers oversee entire subdivision developments, from lot prep to final inspection. Hiring trend: Aggressive expansion into new subdivisions on Ankeny’s west side, near the Raccoon River Parkway.

4. JH Precision Mechanical (JHPM): A leading mechanical contractor specializing in HVAC, plumbing, and piping for commercial and industrial projects. They are a key subcontractor on major projects in the region and employ their own project managers to coordinate with general contractors. Hiring trend: Increased demand for data center and clean room mechanical systems.

5. City of Ankeny - Public Works: The city itself is a major employer for infrastructure projects. They manage road extensions, utility upgrades, and public facility construction. These roles offer exceptional stability and benefits. Hiring trend: Steady; projects are tied to the city council’s 5-year capital improvement plan, which includes major sewer and water line upgrades.

6. Cannon Companies: A regional development and construction firm with a strong presence in Ankeny. They handle a mix of commercial, industrial, and large-scale residential projects. They are known for their work in the industrial parks on Ankeny’s north side. Hiring trend: Active in the logistics and warehouse sector, building for clients like Amazon and other e-commerce distributors.

7. Cannonball Construction: A commercial and industrial general contractor based in the area. They focus on projects ranging from tenant improvements to ground-up industrial facilities. Hiring trend: High demand for managers with experience in metal building systems and tilt-up concrete construction.

Insider Tip: The network here is tight. The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce and the Master Builders of Iowa (MBI) host regular events. Getting involved with MBI is crucial—it’s where you’ll hear about projects before they’re publicly advertised.

Getting Licensed in IA

Iowa does not have a state-level licensure requirement for general Construction Managers working on residential or commercial projects. However, the state does regulate specific trades and project types. Here’s what you need to know:

• State Contractor Registration: If you are operating your own construction management firm or acting as a GC, you must register with the Iowa Division of Labor. This is not a license but a registration that requires proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.
• Trade Licenses: For specific work like plumbing, electrical, or HVAC, you or your lead subordinate must hold a valid Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board license or Iowa Electrical Examining Board license. As a manager, you need to know these requirements inside and out.
• Certifications (The Real Differentiator): While not state-required, industry certifications are what get you hired. The most valuable are:
  • Certified Construction Manager (CCM) from CMAA: The gold standard.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) from PMI: Widely respected across industries.
  • LEED AP BD+C from USGBC: Essential for commercial projects, especially with corporate clients from Des Moines who have sustainability goals.

Timeline & Cost:

• Getting Started: You can start applying for jobs immediately. The registration process for your own firm takes about 4-6 weeks once you have insurance.
• Cost: Registration fee is minimal (under $100). The real cost is in certifications. The CCM exam fee is $595 for members, plus study materials. The PMP exam is $405 for non-members. Budget $1,500 - $2,500 for preparation and exams.

Insider Tip: The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) website is your bible for all trade-specific questions. Bookmark it.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Where you live in Ankeny will define your daily life. Here’s a neighborhood breakdown tailored for a Construction Manager.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent Estimate (1BR)	Best For...
Prairie Trail	Modern, walkable, new construction. Central hub with shops, restaurants, and the Ankeny Public Library. 10-15 mins to I-35.	$1,050 - $1,300	Young professionals who want a vibrant, social scene and minimal yard maintenance.
Twin Lakes	Established, family-oriented, with parks and lakes. Mix of mid-century and newer homes. 15-20 mins to I-35.	$750 - $950	Managers with families who value outdoor recreation and top-rated Ankeny Community School District.
Downtown Ankeny	Historic charm, locally-owned businesses, and a growing bar/restaurant scene. Very walkable. 5-10 mins to I-35.	$700 - $900	Those who love older homes, character, and being part of a tight-knit community. Commute times are the shortest.
Southwest Ankeny	Rapidly expanding, newer subdivisions (like those by Oakridge), and more affordable housing stock. 15-20 mins to I-35.	$800 - $1,000	First-time homebuyers or those looking for more square footage and a modern suburban feel.
Near the Industrial Parks (North Ankeny)	Practical, quiet, and geared towards professionals working in the logistics/manufacturing corridor. 10-15 mins to I-35.	$650 - $850	The pragmatic choice. Lower rents, very short commutes to major employers like JHPM and Cannon Companies.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-35 is minimal compared to larger metros, but the Ankeny Boulevard/35 interchange can get congested during rush hour. Living south of I-35 (Prairie Trail, Southwest) can add 5-10 minutes to a commute to northside industrial parks. Factor this in if you land a job with a northside builder.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Ankeny, career growth is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about deepening expertise and expanding your network.

• Specialty Premiums: General construction managers are valuable, but specialists command a premium.

  • Data Center/IT Construction: With Des Moines’ booming tech sector, Ankeny is a satellite location for data center support. Managers with experience here can earn 10-15% above the median.
  • Industrial/HVAC: Expertise in clean rooms, specialized ventilation, and process piping is rare and highly paid. Expect a 10-20% premium.
  • Residential Design-Build: Moving from simple tract home management to custom, high-end design-build projects can increase earnings and job satisfaction significantly.

• Advancement Paths: The path isn’t always vertical. A common trajectory is:

  1. Project Engineer/Coordinator (Entry) -> Project Manager (Mid) -> Senior Project Manager (Senior).
  2. From Senior PM, you can move into Operations Manager (overseeing multiple projects), Business Development (using your network to win new work), or start your own Consulting Firm (a popular path for seasoned managers with deep local connections).

• 10-Year Outlook: The 8% job growth is solid, but the real opportunity lies in the city’s planning documents. Ankeny’s 2040 Plan emphasizes infill development, mixed-use projects in the Prairie Trail area, and infrastructure upgrades. Managers who can navigate municipal planning, community engagement, and sustainable building will be in high demand. The proximity to Des Moines also means you can tap into that larger market while enjoying Ankeny’s lower cost of living.

The Verdict: Is Ankeny Right for You?

Ankeny presents a compelling case for Construction Managers, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s a balanced look.

Pros	Cons
Excellent Cost of Living: Your $105,840 salary goes much further than in coastal cities or Des Moines proper. Homeownership is very attainable.	Smaller, Less Diverse Market: Job options are fewer than in a major metro. You may need to commute to Des Moines for the highest-paying corporate roles.
Strong, Growing Job Market: Steady 8% growth in a focused market means less competition for specialized roles. The local network is powerful.	Cultural & Entertainment Limits: While Ankeny has a great community vibe, it lacks the diverse arts, dining, and nightlife scene of a larger city. You’ll drive to Des Moines for major events.
Quality of Life: Top schools, safe neighborhoods, and easy access to outdoor recreation (Saylorville Lake, Gray's Lake). Commutes are short and low-stress.	Weather: Iowa winters are harsh and long (Nov-Mar). The construction season can be shorter than in milder climates, though indoor work continues year-round.
Strategic Location: Being a suburb of Des Moines gives you the best of both worlds—small-town feel with big-city amenities and job opportunities 15 minutes away.	Car Dependent: Public transit is limited. A reliable vehicle is a necessity for commuting and getting to job sites.

Final Recommendation: Ankeny is an exceptional choice for Construction Managers who prioritize financial health, work-life balance, and a strong sense of community. It’s ideal for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home, raise a family, and build a stable career. It may feel limiting for those who crave the constant buzz of a major coastal city or who want to work on skyscrapers daily. For the pragmatic, data-driven manager who values quality of life, Ankeny offers a rare and valuable combination of opportunity and affordability.

FAQs

1. What’s the real cost of living compared to Des Moines?
While Ankeny’s cost of living index is 92.7 (vs. US avg of 100), Des Moines’ is closer to 95. The biggest difference is housing. Ankeny offers more space and newer homes for the same price. Your grocery, transportation, and utility costs will be nearly identical. Essentially, you get a more residential, family-friendly setting for a slightly lower housing cost.

2. Is it worth commuting from Ankeny to Des Moines for a higher salary?
Often, yes. A Construction Manager role in downtown Des Moines might pay $115,000 - $120,000. The commute is 15-25 minutes on I-35, which is very manageable. After accounting for the slightly higher rent in Ankeny, the net gain in disposable income and