Waukee has transformed from a quiet western suburb into one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest. With a 2026 population approaching 40,000 — a staggering 61% increase since 2020 — and an annual growth rate of 6.8%, Waukee is no longer just a bedroom community for Des Moines. It is an economic force in its own right. The median household income here crosses $100,000, reflecting the influx of young professionals and families drawn by top-rated schools, new commercial developments, and a quality of life that consistently ranks among the best in Iowa. The city's transformation accelerated with the opening of new retail corridors, tech-sector office parks, and residential developments that blend suburban comfort with urban amenities. What makes Waukee remarkable is not just the growth — plenty of suburbs grow. It's the intentionality. City planners and developers have worked to create walkable town centers, preserve green space, and attract businesses that provide high-paying jobs close to home. Waukee isn't trying to be Des Moines. It's building something distinctly its own.