The Ankeny Cosmetologist Career Guide: A Local's Reality Check

Thinking about moving to Ankeny for your cosmetology career? As someone who’s watched this suburb grow from a quiet bedroom community into a bustling metro hub, I can tell you it’s a solid choice—but not without trade-offs. This guide cuts through the fluff and gives you the data-driven, local insight you need to decide if Ankeny is your next career stop.

The Salary Picture: Where Ankeny Stands

Let's get the numbers out of the way first, because they tell a critical story. In Ankeny, the median salary for a cosmetologist is $37,529/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $18.04/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $38,370/year, but it’s important to understand the context. The Des Moines metro area, which Ankeny is a key part of, has a lower cost of living than the national average, so your dollar stretches further here.

The job market is competitive but growing. There are approximately 148 jobs for cosmetologists in the metro area, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 8%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's steady. The real story, however, is in the experience breakdown.

Experience-Level Salary Breakdown

Level	Years of Experience	Typical Annual Salary Range (Ankeny Metro)	Notes
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$28,000 - $32,000	Often starts with commission, tips, and hourly wage. Building a clientele is key.
Mid-Level	3-7 years	$34,000 - $40,000	Established clientele, can specialize in cuts, color, or extensions.
Senior-Level	8-15 years	$41,000 - $48,000	Senior stylist, educator, or salon manager. Higher-end service rates.
Expert/Owner	15+ years	$48,000+	Salon owner, master stylist, or niche specialist (e.g., medical esthetics).

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings and industry surveys, centered on the median of $37,529.

How Ankeny Compares to Other Iowa Cities

For a broader Iowa context, here’s how Ankeny stacks up against other major metros for cosmetology pay:

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living (US Avg=100)	Key Takeaway
Ankeny (Des Moines Metro)	$37,529	92.7	Best balance of opportunity and affordability.
Iowa City (Coralville)	$36,800	94.1	Strong student market, but lower pay ceiling.
Cedar Rapids	$35,900	88.5	Lower pay, but significantly cheaper cost of living.
Davenport (Quad Cities)	$36,500	86.2	Manufacturing-based economy, less service-industry focus.
Sioux City	$34,200	83.9	Lowest pay in the state for this field.

Ankeny’s position in the Des Moines metro gives it a slight edge over other Iowa cities. The proximity to downtown Des Moines means stylists can often work in higher-end downtown salons while living in the more affordable Ankeny suburbs.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary number is just a starting point. Let’s break down what a cosmetologist earning the median $37,529/year can actually expect to live on in Ankeny.

Monthly Take-Home Pay:

• Gross Monthly: $3,127
• Estimated Taxes (Fed, State, FICA): ~$570
• Net Monthly Income: ~$2,557

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Rent (1BR Average): $787
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): $180
• Groceries: $300
• Car Payment/Insurance (Essential in Ankeny): $400
• Phone & Misc. Expenses: $150
• Student Loan/Personal Savings: $200
• Entertainment/Dining Out: $200
• Total Expenses: $2,217
• Remaining Buffer: $340

This budget leaves a small but manageable cushion. The key variable is transportation. Ankeny is a car-dependent city. Public transit (DART) exists but is limited for commuting to salons in neighboring areas. If you have a car payment, that buffer shrinks. If you own your car outright, you’re in a much better position.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
With a $340 monthly buffer, buying a home is challenging on a single median income. The average home price in Ankeny is around $285,000. A 30-year mortgage at current rates would require a monthly payment of ~$1,800+ (including taxes and insurance), which is 70% of your net income—well above the recommended 30-35% threshold. It’s not impossible with a large down payment or a dual-income household, but a cosmetologist on a median salary will likely rent for several years while building clientele and savings.

Where the Jobs Are: Ankeny's Major Employers

Ankeny’s job market for cosmetologists is a mix of independent salons, franchises, and a unique opportunity in the medical esthetics field, thanks to its proximity to major healthcare providers. Here are the key players:

1. SalonCentric / L'Oréal USA: While not a salon itself, this major distributor has a significant presence in the Ankeny/Des Moines area. They are a major employer for licensed cosmetologists in retail sales and education roles, offering a stable hourly wage and benefits. A great option for those wanting a break from the commission grind.

2. The Spa at Gateway (Ankeny): A well-established, full-service spa in the heart of Ankeny. They frequently hire for estheticians and massage therapists, but also employ stylists for their hair services. Known for a professional environment and a steady clientele of locals and visitors from the nearby corporate parks.

3. Great Clips (Multiple Ankeny Locations): As a franchise, Great Clips is a consistent hirer. It’s a high-volume, fast-paced environment. Ideal for new grads looking to build speed and confidence. Pay is typically hourly plus commission, with a clear path to management. The Ankeny North and South locations are always busy.

4. Hair Inc. (Ankeny): A popular local salon chain with a strong reputation. They focus on continuing education and often hire for stylists at all levels. Insider tip: they have a loyal clientele built over decades, so building a book here can be lucrative if you have the patience.

5. Iowa Dermatology & Cosmetics (West Des Moines, 15-min commute): This is the "insider tip" for career growth. While not in Ankeny proper, this clinic and others like it in the Des Moines metro are increasingly hiring licensed cosmetologists/estheticians for medical spa roles (laser, chemical peels, facials). This work often comes with a higher hourly wage ($22-$28/hour) and benefits, a significant premium over standard salon work.

Hiring Trends: There's a noticeable trend toward specialization. Salons are more interested in stylists who are certified in specific brands (e.g., Redken, Olaplex) or techniques (balayage, extensions). The medical esthetics field is the fastest-growing segment, driven by an aging population and increased demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

Getting Licensed in Iowa

Iowa’s licensing is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The primary governing body is the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences.

Requirements:

1. Education: Complete 1,500 hours at a state-approved cosmetology school. Several schools serve the Des Moines metro, including the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) cosmetology program in Ankeny and nearby institutions.
2. Exams: Pass the national written exam (NIC) and the Iowa jurisprudence exam.
3. Application: Submit an application with proof of education, exam scores, and fees.

Timeline & Costs:

• Schooling: 12-15 months of full-time study.
• Cost of School: Between $15,000 and $22,000 (including kit and supplies). DMACC is often the most affordable option.
• Licensing Fees: $120 for initial license application.
• Total Estimated Cost to Get Licensed: $15,120 - $22,120.

Insider Tip: DMACC’s program is highly respected locally. Graduating from a local school also gives you a built-in network for your first job, as local salon owners often recruit directly from the program.

Best Neighborhoods for Cosmetologists

Where you live affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Ankeny is divided by Highway 69, with distinct vibes on either side.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For
Old Ankeny (Downtown)	Walkable, historic, charming. Close to local salons, coffee shops, and parks. Easy access to US-69 for commutes.	$850 - $950	Young professionals who want a community feel and short commutes.
South Ankeny (Prairie Trail)	Newer developments, modern amenities, family-oriented. Slightly longer drive to downtown salons but closer to major retail.	$900 - $1,100	Those seeking newer apartments with amenities (pool, gym).
North Ankeny (near DMACC)	Affordable, student-heavy, convenience-focused. Close to the college and I-35 for commuting to Des Moines jobs.	$750 - $850	New grads, budget-conscious, or those working at DMACC-area salons.
Near Des Moines (South of Ankeny)	Suburban, quiet, more spacious. Commute to Ankeny salons is 10-15 mins, but you get more house for your money.	$800 - $900	Stylists who want a quieter home base and don't mind a short drive.

Recommendation: For a new cosmetologist, Old Ankeny offers the best balance of community and access to potential employers. If you're budget-focused, North Ankeny is the smart financial move.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Ankeny is a great place to start, but where can you go from here?

Specialty Premiums:

• Medical Esthetics: This is the biggest salary booster. With additional certification (e.g., in laser, microneedling), you can see a $5-$10/hour increase over a traditional salon wage.
• Master Colorist: Becoming an educator or advanced color specialist for a brand like Redken or Wella can lead to roles with salaries in the $45,000 - $55,000 range.
• Salon Manager/Owner: The ultimate goal for many. While risky, owning a salon in a growing area like Ankeny can be profitable. The median salary for a salon manager in the area is closer to $48,000 - $55,000.

10-Year Outlook:
The 8% job growth over 10 years is promising, but the real opportunity lies in the "hybrid cosmetologist." Stylists who can do hair and are certified in basic esthetics (lashes, brows) will be in highest demand. The rise of the "medical spa" model in the Des Moines metro means cosmetologists who upskill into these areas will see the most career mobility and highest earning potential.

The Verdict: Is Ankeny Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living (Index 92.7). Your $37,529 salary goes further here.	Car-Dependent City. Public transit is weak; you need a reliable vehicle.
Steady Job Market with 148 jobs and 8% growth.	Competitive Entry-Level Market. Building a clientele takes time and hustle.
Proximity to Des Moines. Access to higher-end salons and medical spa jobs without living in the city.	Lower Ceiling (Initially). Median pay is slightly below national average until you specialize.
Growing, Safe Suburb. Great for starting a family or long-term stability.	Limited Nightlife/Scene. Quieter than a major city, which may not suit everyone.
Excellent Community Colleges. DMACC provides a local pipeline for education and talent.	Seasonal Winters. Can impact commute and client traffic during slow seasons.

Final Recommendation:
Ankeny is an excellent choice for a new or mid-career cosmetologist who is pragmatic, budget-conscious, and willing to build a clientele. It’s a launchpad, not necessarily a final destination. The low cost of living allows you to survive the lean startup years, and the proximity to Des Moines offers a clear path for specialization and higher earnings. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-competition market from day one, look elsewhere. But if you want a stable, affordable base to build a career, Ankeny is a smart, data-backed bet.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find a job right out of cosmetology school in Ankeny?
A: Yes, but you'll likely start in a commission or hourly role at a franchise (Great Clips, Supercuts) or a local chain (Hair Inc.) to build speed and a client base. Be prepared to work hard for the first 1-2 years. Networking through your school is crucial.

Q: Do I need a car to work as a cosmetologist in Ankeny?
A: Absolutely. While some salons are near residential areas, most are in shopping centers or business parks not served by reliable public transit. You'll need a car for commuting, running errands for supplies, and potentially for house calls (if you go independent).

Q: How does the tip culture work in Ankeny?
A: Tips are a significant part of income, often adding 15-25% to your base wage. In a commission-based salon, tips are typically kept 100% by the stylist. In hourly/commission salons, they are added on top. Always ask about the tip policy during an interview.

Q: Are there opportunities for continuing education locally?
A: Yes. The Des Moines metro hosts several major brand educators (Redken, Wella, etc.) who offer classes. DMACC also offers continuing education courses. Investing in specialized certifications (e.g., balayage, extensions) is one of the best ways to increase your rates in the Ankeny market.

Q: What's the busiest season for cosmetology in Ankeny?
A: The busiest times are typically late November through early January (holiday parties and New Year's) and late spring/early summer (weddings and graduation season). The slowest period is often January and February. Smart budgeting during slow months is key.

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Data Sources: Salary and job growth data are based on figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, localized to the Des Moines-West Des Moines metropolitan area. Cost of Living Index is from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Licensing information is from the Iowa Department of Public Health - Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Rent and home price data are aggregated from local real estate market reports.