Ankeny, Iowa vs Wichita, Kansas Population and Size Compared

When we talk about cities in the United States, especially those outside the major urban centers, we often become curious about how they differ in terms of population growth, size, lifestyle, and opportunities. In this text, we will explore Ankeny, Iowa, and Wichita, Kansas, two cities with distinct profiles that offer an interesting perspective on the differences between an expanding urban center and a more suburban, family-oriented environment.

Location and Historical Context

• Ankeny, Iowa: Located about 10 miles north of Des Moines, Ankeny is part of the Des Moines metropolitan area, the capital of Iowa. Founded in 1875, Ankeny began as a small, agricultural community, but its proximity to Des Moines spurred population growth. The city has been growing rapidly and is becoming one of the most attractive centers for families and young professionals in Iowa.
• Wichita, Kansas: Wichita is the largest city in Kansas, located in the southern part of the state near the Arkansas River. Founded in 1868, Wichita initially developed as a major trading point and later as a hub for the aviation industry, earning the nickname “Air Capital of the World.” Today, the city still has a diversified economy, with industries ranging from aviation to technology and retail.

Population and Demographics

• Ankeny: With an estimated population of around 76,000, Ankeny is one of the fastest-growing cities in Iowa. This population growth is driven by factors like quality of life, job opportunities, and proximity to Des Moines. Ankeny’s demographics mainly consist of young families and professionals looking for a place with good schools, low crime rates, and a strong sense of community.
• Wichita: Wichita, on the other hand, has a much larger population of approximately 400,000 people, making it the largest population center in Kansas. As a state attraction point, Wichita is more diverse, with a population composed of various ethnicities and age groups. This diversity contributes to a unique cultural mix, with a wide variety of dining options, events, and cultural activities.

Economy and Job Opportunities

• Ankeny: Although Ankeny is more suburban, its economy has thrived with local businesses and the proximity to large corporations in Des Moines. The city has a stable employment rate, with sectors such as education, healthcare, and financial services growing. The educational sector is also significant, with quality schools and access to the Des Moines Area Community College, which offers educational and professional opportunities locally.
• Wichita: Wichita has a well-established and diversified economy, with key industries like aviation, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Companies like Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation are major employers, keeping Wichita as an innovation hub in aviation. Additionally, the healthcare sector is strong, with medical and research institutions providing employment and services for the local population.

 Education and Quality of Teaching

• Ankeny: Ankeny is known for its high-quality education system, with well-rated public schools. The city has an efficient school system that serves a growing population of young families. Additionally, Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) is an important resource for the city, offering technical, undergraduate courses, and partnerships with local companies.
• Wichita: The city of Wichita offers a variety of public and private schools, as well as higher education institutions like Wichita State University, one of Kansas’ leading universities. The presence of this university brings not only higher education opportunities to the city but also research and innovation, especially in the fields of engineering and business.

6. Infrastructure and Transportation

• Ankeny: As a growing city, Ankeny has developing infrastructure with well-maintained streets and planned residential areas. Public transportation in Ankeny is limited, as most residents rely on cars to get around. However, the proximity to Des Moines allows easy access to a broader transportation network and a larger airport.
• Wichita: Being a larger city, Wichita has a more developed transportation infrastructure. Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport offers flights to several U.S. cities, connecting Wichita to the rest of the country. The city also has public transportation options, including buses, although car dependence remains high for most residents.

7. Culture and Leisure

• Ankeny: Life in Ankeny is very community-oriented, with local events, parks, and family-friendly activities. Ankeny has a series of parks, trails, and recreation centers that attract families and people who enjoy outdoor activities. Events like summer fairs and community festivals are common and promote a strong sense of unity among residents.
• Wichita: As a larger city, Wichita offers a vibrant and diverse cultural scene. The city has museums, such as the Wichita Art Museum and the Kansas Aviation Museum. Additionally, Wichita hosts annual festivals, a rich music scene, and a variety of restaurants that reflect its cultural diversity. Residents and visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from sports events to concerts and exhibitions.

Quality of Life and Cost of Living

• Ankeny: The quality of life in Ankeny is generally high, with a low crime rate, good schools, and a close-knit community. The cost of living in Ankeny is reasonable, although it is slightly higher than in more rural areas of Iowa. Housing, in particular, is in high demand, with new residential neighborhoods being built to accommodate the growing population.
• Wichita: Wichita has an affordable cost of living, especially compared to other similarly sized cities in the United States. Although the crime rate in some areas is a concern, the city offers a variety of neighborhoods and housing options. Overall, Wichita provides a good quality of life, with numerous cultural and leisure opportunities at a relatively low cost.

Conclusion

Ankeny, Iowa, and Wichita, Kansas, are cities with quite different profiles, but each offers attractive qualities depending on the desired lifestyle. Ankeny attracts families and young professionals seeking a smaller city, with a community atmosphere and convenient proximity to a larger urban center like Des Moines. Wichita, with its larger population, infrastructure, and cultural diversity, stands out in Kansas as an economic and cultural center.

Ankeny offers a more peaceful, family-friendly environment, ideal for those who value suburban life with easy access to urban resources. Wichita, in contrast, is a city where tradition and modernity meet, offering a unique blend of established industries and new opportunities, as well as a rich and varied cultural scene. Both cities reflect, in different ways, the opportunities and challenges of mid-sized cities in the United States, providing interesting options for those looking for a place to live or visit.

This longer text allows a detailed understanding of the qualities of each city and helps form a complete picture of what it’s like to live and work in Ankeny or Wichita.