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If you’re thinking about building or buying a new home in Ankeny, Iowa, you’re not alone. Over the past few years, Ankeny has become one of the most sought-after areas in Central Iowa for families, professionals, and retirees who want the best of both worlds, the convenience of city living with the peace and comfort of a small community.
At Happe Homes, we’ve built in nearly every corner of Ankeny, and we’ve seen first-hand which neighborhoods offer the best mix of value, lifestyle, and long-term potential. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or ready to design your forever home, this guide will help you explore the top places to live and build in Ankeny in 2025.
Why Ankeny is Growing So Quickly
Just north of Des Moines, Ankeny continues to attract families for all the right reasons. The schools are among the best in Iowa, the community is vibrant, and new restaurants, parks, and businesses seem to open every month. Easy access to I-35 and I-80 also makes commuting simple for anyone working in the Des Moines metro.
Ankeny’s growth is driven by more than convenience. The city’s neighborhoods are planned with families in mind, walkable streets, large parks, modern amenities, and plenty of new construction homes that can be customized to fit your lifestyle.
Centennial Estates – Family Living with Lasting Value
Location: Northwest Ankeny, near NW 36th Street and Irvinedale Drive
Typical Home Price Range: $400,000 to $650,000
Centennial Estates continues to be one of Ankeny’s most popular neighborhoods. It’s known for its wide lots, peaceful streets, and proximity to excellent schools. The homes here feature open layouts, stylish exteriors, and family-friendly floor plans.
If you drive through the area, you’ll notice beautiful new homes by trusted Ankeny home builders, including Happe Homes. Families love that it’s close to Centennial High School, parks, and the High Trestle Trail. It’s the perfect spot for those who want a safe, connected community that still feels private.
You can explore more of our Ankeny communities and see current listings within Centennial Estates.
2. Aspen Ridge Estates – Quiet Streets and Modern Design
Location: Northwest Ankeny
Typical Home Price Range: $350,000 to $500,000
Aspen Ridge Estates is ideal for homeowners who appreciate quiet surroundings with quick access to city life. The neighborhood sits just minutes from the Prairie Trail District, one of Ankeny’s liveliest areas filled with shopping, restaurants, and recreation.
Homes in Aspen Ridge are designed for comfort and practicality, often featuring open-concept layouts and plenty of natural light. The community’s tree-lined streets and nearby green spaces make it a relaxing place to come home to after a busy day.
Browse some of our floor plans that fit perfectly into the Aspen Ridge lifestyle.
3. Blooming Heights – Affordable Luxury Close to It All
Location: Southwest Ankeny, near the Norwalk corridor
Typical Home Price Range: $325,000 to $550,000
If you’re looking for a community that combines affordability with quality, Blooming Heights is a wonderful choice. The homes here offer modern finishes, spacious designs, and the same level of craftsmanship found in higher-priced neighborhoods.
This area has grown quickly thanks to its larger lot sizes and easy access to Highway 5 and IA-28. It’s popular with first-time buyers and growing families who want to work with experienced custom home builders without going over budget.
Take a look at our available homes to see what’s currently being built in and around Blooming Heights.
4. Trestle Ridge Estates – Nature at Your Doorstep
Location: North Ankeny, near High Trestle Trail
Typical Home Price Range: $450,000 to $700,000
For outdoor lovers, Trestle Ridge Estates offers something special. It’s close to scenic biking and walking trails, parks, and open green spaces. The homes here are built with a focus on modern design and energy efficiency.
Happe Homes offers a range of customizable plans in this area, from cozy ranch-style layouts to spacious two-story homes with large windows and outdoor living areas. Residents enjoy being close to nature while still only minutes from shopping, schools, and restaurants.
Learn more about our custom floor plans that are popular in Trestle Ridge.
5. Prairie Trail District – The Heart of Modern Ankeny
Location: South Ankeny, near SW Magazine Road and SW State Street
Typical Home Price Range: $400,000 to $800,000
Prairie Trail is a true master-planned community and one of Ankeny’s most recognizable neighborhoods. Designed around the idea of walkable living, Prairie Trail offers everything from coffee shops and restaurants to boutique stores and community events.
For many buyers, this area represents the future of Ankeny. It’s vibrant, social, and built for convenience. Happe Homes builds custom homes here that meet community architectural standards while still giving homeowners room to personalize every detail.
Families enjoy being close to Ankeny High School and DMACC, and young professionals love that everything is within walking distance. You can view our homes available in Prairie Trail and discover what makes this neighborhood so unique.
Common Questions from New and Future Homeowners
Who are the best home builders in Ankeny?
There are several respected builders in the area, but Happe Homes is proud to be among the most trusted. We’ve been building custom homes across Central Iowa for more than two decades, offering personalized designs that fit a range of budgets and styles.
How much does it cost to build a new home in Ankeny?
In 2025, most new construction homes in Ankeny range from around $350,000 to $700,000. The cost depends on location, lot size, finishes, and design features.
Which neighborhoods offer the best resale value?
Centennial Estates and Prairie Trail consistently hold strong resale value because of their desirable school districts, modern infrastructure, and long-term demand.
Are there affordable options for first-time homebuyers?
Yes. Communities like Blooming Heights and Aspen Ridge Estates provide excellent value without compromising on quality or design. Happe Homes works closely with homeowners to balance design goals and budget.
How can I start building my custom home in Ankeny?
What Makes Ankeny Special
Ankeny has mastered the art of combining comfort with opportunity. It’s a city where neighbors still wave to each other, where families gather at parks, and where local businesses thrive. Whether you’re new to Iowa or moving within the metro, Ankeny offers a community you’ll be proud to call home.
Happe Homes is honored to build here. Every home we design reflects our belief that quality, craftsmanship, and value should always go hand in hand. From the first blueprint to the final walk-through, our team is dedicated to creating homes that fit your lifestyle and future.
If you’re ready to explore what Ankeny has to offer, reach out today. We’d love to help you find or build a home that’s distinctly yours.
Contact Happe Homes to start your home-building journey or browse our available homes to see what’s move-in ready.