Let the numbers do the talking.
Ames, IA vs Bettendorf, IA
Ames, IA vs Bettendorf, IA: What the data shows
Ames, IA is in Ames, IA while Bettendorf, IA is in Bettendorf, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Ames, IA is the more affordable option at $235,700 median — $42,800 less than Bettendorf, IA's $278,500. WYLT rates Ames, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Bettendorf, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Ames, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Ames, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Bettendorf, IA has Moderate violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Ames, IA has High flood risk and Bettendorf, IA has Low flood risk.
Bettendorf, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ames, IA scores N/A/100 versus Bettendorf, IA's 18/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Bettendorf, IA has the higher school rating — Ames, IA rates 4.7/10 and Bettendorf, IA rates 5.6/10.
| Category | Ames, IA | Bettendorf, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $236K ✓ Lower price | $279K |
| Median Rent | $946 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $65K | $102K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 18/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 1/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | B- |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.7/10 | 5.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | familiesstudentsremote workers | Families with childrenMiddle‑income earnersCommuters willing to drive |
Bottom line
Both Ames and Bettendorf present similar concerns, but if you prioritize affordable options and family-friendly schools, Bettendorf might be worth considering, despite its car-centric layout. If you're a student or remote worker looking for a quieter, family-friendly environment with lower flood risk, Ames might still be the better choice. However, budget for extra expenses in both towns unless you value convenience over public transit and walkability.
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