U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, has named the City of Ankeny one of the 2025-2026 Best Places to Live in the United States. The City of Ankeny ranked #18 in the nation, out of the top 250 unveiled. Ankeny was also named the #1 in Best Places to Live in Iowa and #11 in Best Small Cities to Live.
This year’s list expanded to evaluate more than 850 of the country’s top cities based on how well they meet consumers' living expectations, with measures including value, job market, desirability and quality of life.
“This national recognition reflects what makes Ankeny so special: high-quality services, safe neighborhoods, excellent schools and a strong sense of community,” said Ankeny Interim City Manager Mike Schrock. “It’s also a testament to the thoughtful leadership and long-term vision that guide our city. Our elected officials, staff and community partners work together every day to maintain the character that makes Ankeny feel like home while delivering the services and amenities people value most.”
Ankeny is a vibrant growing community that offers a high quality of life, strong schools and safe neighborhoods. Known for its extensive trail system, the city features more than 100 miles of trails that connect over 50 parks, neighborhoods and natural areas. The City continues to invest in the services, spaces and connections that make it a great place to call home.
“Choosing a place to live is a life-changing decision for many people,” said Erika Giovanetti, consumer lending analyst, U.S. News & World Report. “The 2025-2026 Best Places to Live rankings expanded this year to identify cities of all sizes that are most likely to meet the wants and needs of those considering where to call home next.”
The four measures factored into this year’s ranking were weighted in part based on a public survey of thousands of individuals throughout the U.S. to find out what qualities they consider important in a place to live. The methodology also factors in data from U.S. News' internal resources, Applied Geographic Solutions, and U.S. government agencies including the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
View the list of the Top 25 Places to Live.
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