Best Schools in Ankeny Iowa (And Where to Live Nearby)
If you’re moving to Ankeny, Iowa, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is:
👉 “What are the best schools — and where should we live to be close to them?”
The good news: Ankeny is widely known for strong public schools, high graduation rates, and consistent academic performance. The district serves more than 12,000 students across multiple highly rated elementary, middle, and high schools. (Public School Review)
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✅ The best schools in Ankeny
✅ Neighborhoods nearby
✅ Tips for choosing the right area
Overview of Ankeny Schools
The Ankeny Community School District is one of the fastest-growing districts in the Des Moines metro.
Key highlights include:
Graduation rate around 95% (top tier in Iowa)
Student-teacher ratio near 15:1
Strong math and reading proficiency scores
Multiple schools ranked in the top 10% statewide (Public School Review)
Because the district is large and expanding, choosing the right neighborhood + attendance zone can make a big difference.
⭐ Best Elementary Schools in Ankeny
Prairie Trail Elementary
Consistently ranked among the top elementary schools in Ankeny, Prairie Trail Elementary School shows standout academic scores in both math and reading. (Public School Review)
Best neighborhoods nearby:
Prairie Trail
The District at Prairie Trail
Deer Creek
👉 Why buyers love this area:
Walkability, parks, trails, and proximity to shopping and restaurants.
Northeast Elementary
Northeast Elementary School is another top-rated option known for strong test scores and family-friendly programs. (Public School Review)
Best neighborhoods nearby:
Otter Creek
North Ankeny developments
Established homes near Ankeny Blvd
👉 Why buyers love this area:
Mature trees, larger lots, and easy access to I-35.
Crocker Elementary
With high academic performance and smaller class sizes, Crocker Elementary School remains a popular choice for young families. (Public School Review)
Best neighborhoods nearby:
Southwest Ankeny
Cherry Glen
Rock Creek
👉 Why buyers love this area:
Quiet streets and a mix of newer construction and resale homes.
⭐ Best Middle Schools in Ankeny
Southview Middle School
Southview Middle School ranks among the top schools in the district based on proficiency scores. (Public School Review)
Nearby housing options:
Southwest Ankeny
Established neighborhoods near DMACC
👉 Ideal for buyers looking for central location + established home values.
Northview Middle School
Located in the northern part of the district, Northview Middle School offers strong academic performance and serves many newer developments. (Public School Review)
Nearby neighborhoods:
Ashland Ridge
Centennial Estates
Northern growth corridor
👉 Ideal for buyers wanting newer homes and future appreciation potential.
⭐ Best High Schools in Ankeny
Ankeny High School
Ankeny High School is highly ranked statewide and offers strong academics, athletics, and college-prep programs. (Niche)
Best areas to live nearby:
Southwest Ankeny
Cherry Glen
Rock Creek
👉 Known for strong community pride and established neighborhoods.
Ankeny Centennial High School
Serving the northern half of the district, Ankeny Centennial High School is a newer high school with modern facilities and growing academic programs. (Wikipedia)
Best areas nearby:
Prairie Trail
Ashland Ridge
North Ankeny new construction
👉 Popular with buyers seeking newer homes and proximity to parks and trails.
How to Choose the Right Neighborhood
When helping buyers relocate to Ankeny, I always recommend considering:
🏡 School boundaries – They can change as the city grows
📈 Resale value – Homes near top schools often hold value better
🚗 Commute time – Important if working in Des Moines or Ames
🌳 Lifestyle fit – Walkable vs. quiet suburban vs. new construction
The best “school area” really depends on your family’s priorities.
Thinking About Moving to Ankeny?
If schools are one of your top priorities, Ankeny offers:
✔ Strong academic performance
✔ Newer facilities
✔ Family-focused neighborhoods
✔ Excellent long-term home value potential
Choosing the right neighborhood can make a big difference — and that’s where having a local expert helps.