2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ankeny, IA vs Mesa, AZ

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Mesa older or younger than people in Ankeny?
- The Median Age in Mesa is 3.7 years older than in Ankeny.

Are housing costs cheaper in Mesa or Ankeny?
- Mesa housing costs are 35.5% more expensive than Ankeny housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Mesa or Ankeny?
- The average commute for residents of Mesa is 3.6 minutes longer than it is for residents of Ankeny.

Things to do in Ankeny?
Ankeny, Iowa is an incredible city located in the heart of Polk County. This bustling community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the historic downtown district or popular restaurants like Whiskey River BBQ. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Ankeny Park, Ledges State Park, and Terrace Hill Farm. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Ankeny their home.

Things to do in Mesa?
Mesa, Arizona is a vibrant city filled with activities and attractions for all ages. Visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History or take in a show at the Hohokam Stadium. Head out to Usery Mountain Regional Park and explore some of the most stunning views in Arizona, or stay downtown and experience Mesa's culture and nightlife. Whether you're looking for outdoor recreation, history, culture, or just a relaxing retreat from city life, Mesa is sure to provide it all!

 Ankeny, IAMesa, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock497,752329,725,481
 Median Income$92,959  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$314,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.26  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ankeny    3 Reviews

Over 17 years ago

I moved to Ankeny from Southern CA in June, 2005. My immediate and lasting impression is the incredible home values here, the relatively low population density, and the  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

Ankeny is a great community to raise a family or to be single. The shools are wonderful and so many activities for kids and families. The weather when it is good, it  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

We don't call it "Ankenytopia" for nothing! This is the best town in Iowa! The schools are top-notch, the town is growing and getting more attractions. We are missing  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ankeny

Reviews for Mesa    61 Reviews

Mesa is a really good city despite some trouble with Superstition Springs and the failure that is Fiesta Mall, there is nice areas throughout and some areas that need to  More

   |    Reply

Over 2 years ago

As someone who was born in Mesa and has lived here in the 85210 in Dobson Ranch for the last 13 years after moving out from Chandler. I can tell you that most of the  More

   |    Reply

I’m a native to Arizona and growing up here has taught me that people just don’t care, and the Mormon community is huge! It’s normal in the state of AZ for kids to start  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Mesa


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.