2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Decatur, IL vs Ankeny, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ankeny older or younger than people in Decatur?
- The Median Age in Ankeny is 7.0 years younger than in Decatur.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ankeny or Decatur?
- Ankeny housing costs are 277.0% more expensive than Decatur housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ankeny or Decatur?
- The average commute for residents of Ankeny is 4.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Decatur.

Things to do in Decatur?
Decatur, Illinois is a vibrant city located in the Midwestern United States. Home to attractions such as Scovill Zoo and Nelson Park, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and nature when visiting Decatur. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as Macon County History Museum and Richland Community College Performance Center. For entertainment, visitors can explore downtown shopping districts and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Decatur has something for everyone!

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.

 Decatur, ILAnkeny, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock66,346329,725,481
 Median Income$45,111  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$83,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.47  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Decatur    14 Reviews

I was sent here by the company I worked for in the '90's and was not initially impressed with midwest living. However, over the years I got used to living in the "Pride  More

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I grew up in Decatur and I still have family there, but it depresses me to see what it has become. It has a high unemployment rate, many business have closed or are run  More

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Over 14 years ago

If you enjoy drinking & driving, Decatur's fifteen drive-thru liquor windows, three times the # of drive-thru's than the ten largest cities in Illinois, COMBINED, will  More

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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

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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

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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

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