Let the numbers do the talking.
Ames, IA vs Cedar Falls, IA
Ames, IA vs Cedar Falls, IA: What the data shows
Ames, IA is in Ames, IA while Cedar Falls, IA is in Cedar Falls, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Ames, IA is the more affordable option at $235,700 median — $14,300 less than Cedar Falls, IA's $250,000. WYLT rates Ames, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Cedar Falls, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Cedar Falls, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Ames, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Cedar Falls, IA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Ames, IA has High flood risk and Cedar Falls, IA has Low flood risk.
Cedar Falls, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ames, IA scores N/A/100 versus Cedar Falls, IA's 18/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Cedar Falls, IA has the higher school rating — Ames, IA rates 4.7/10 and Cedar Falls, IA rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Ames, IA | Cedar Falls, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $236K ✓ Lower price | $250K |
| Median Rent | $946 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $65K | $72K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 18/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.7/10 | 6.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | familiesstudentsremote workers | Families with childrenFirst-time homebuyersRemote workers who can drive |
Bottom line
For families with young children and those prioritizing affordable homes, Cedar Falls is likely the better choice. However, for students, remote workers who value quiet environments, and pet owners, Ames offers certain advantages despite its drawbacks. Ultimately, Ames is a harder sell due to its higher upfront costs and flood concerns, but it's not necessarily a bad decision for the right person.
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