If you're considering living in Ankeny but working, attending school, or investing in Ames—you’re not alone.

This is one of the most common commute routes in Central Iowa, especially with the growth of Ankeny and the steady draw of Iowa State.

Here’s exactly what you can expect 👇

How Long Is the Commute?

Typical commute time:

🚗 25–35 minutes (most days)
🚗 20–25 minutes (light traffic, off-peak)
🚗 35–45+ minutes (peak rush hour or weather)

The drive is primarily a straight shot up Interstate 35, which makes it one of the easier commutes in the Des Moines metro.

👉 Compared to larger cities, this is considered a very manageable commute.

The Route: Simple & Direct

Most commuters take:

I-35 North from Ankeny → Ames

That’s it.

There are minimal turns, and it's a highly maintained highway, which makes the drive:

Easy to learn
Predictable
Low stress (most of the time)

Traffic Patterns to Know

Morning (Heading to Ames)

Generally lighter traffic
Most congestion stays closer to Des Moines
Occasional slowdowns near:
- Oralabor Rd exit
- Highway 30 interchange in Ames

Evening (Heading Back to Ankeny)

Slightly busier, but still manageable
Traffic builds near:
- North Ankeny exits
- Construction zones (seasonal)

👉 Overall: traffic is rarely a dealbreaker on this route

Winter Driving Considerations

Iowa winters do impact this commute.

What to expect:

Snow and ice can increase drive time significantly
Wind across open farmland can cause drifting
Visibility can drop quickly during storms

⚠️ Important: During extreme winter events, I-35 can occasionally be shut down for safety.

👉 Before heading out, always check current road conditions at:
https://www.511ia.org/

Good news:
I-35 is a priority road, so it’s usually plowed and treated quickly once conditions improve.

Cost of Commuting

If you're commuting daily, here’s a rough estimate:

Distance: ~25 miles one way
Weekly driving: ~250 miles
Monthly gas cost: ~$120–$200 (depending on vehicle + gas prices)

👉 Many buyers factor this in when choosing between living in Ames vs. Ankeny.

Why People Choose This Commute

1. More Housing Options in Ankeny

Newer construction
More inventory
Master-planned communities

2. Access to Iowa State University

Faculty, staff, and students often commute
Ames housing can be competitive depending on timing

3. Lifestyle Balance

Live in a larger suburb
Work or study in a college town

👉 It’s a “best of both worlds” setup for many people.

Pro Tips for This Commute

Leave before 7:30 AM for the smoothest morning drive
Keep an eye on DOT cameras during winter
Fill up gas in Ankeny (more options + often cheaper)
Consider podcasts or audiobooks—it’s the perfect length

Final Thoughts

The commute from Ankeny to Ames is:

✔️ Straightforward
✔️ Predictable
✔️ Very doable long-term

For many buyers, it’s an easy trade-off to get the home, neighborhood, or price point they want.

If you’re thinking about making a move and want help deciding which area fits your lifestyle best—I’m always happy to help.

Commute from Ankeny to Ames: What to Expect (2026 Guide)