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Cost of Living in Ankeny

Is it better to rent or buy in Ankeny? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$106,094
$1,329/mo

Median in area: $1,329

$316,476

Median in area: $316,476

$63,295

If you Rent

$1,493 /mo
Base Rent$1,329
Est. Utilities$164
% of Income16.9%
Pre-tax Residual$7,348

If you Buy

$2,358 /mo
P&I (6.952%)$1,676
Taxes & Ins$518
Est. Utilities$164
% of Income26.7%
Pre-tax Residual$6,483

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Ankeny?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Ankeny. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,493, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,358 per month (a difference of $865).

How much do utilities cost in Ankeny?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Ankeny is approximately $164. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Ankeny?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Ankeny without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $59,720 per year.