Let the numbers do the talking.
Ames, IA vs Cedar Rapids, IA
Ames, IA vs Cedar Rapids, IA: What the data shows
Ames, IA is in Ames, IA while Cedar Rapids, IA is in Cedar Rapids, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Cedar Rapids, IA is the more affordable option at $135,000 median — $100,700 less than Ames, IA's $235,700. WYLT rates Ames, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Cedar Rapids, 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. Cedar Rapids, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ames, IA has High flood risk and Cedar Rapids, IA has Low flood risk.
Cedar Rapids, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ames, IA scores N/A/100 versus Cedar Rapids, IA's 40/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Cedar Rapids, IA has the higher school rating — Ames, IA rates 4.7/10 and Cedar Rapids, IA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Ames, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $236K | $135K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $946 | $744 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $65K ✓ Higher income | $43K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 40/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.7/10 | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | familiesstudentsremote workers | First‑time homebuyersFamilies with school-aged childrenRemote workers who can drive |
Bottom line
If you're a first-time homebuyer or a family with school-aged children, Cedar Rapids might be a more affordable option with slightly better schools. However, if you value a quieter family environment and are willing to budget for transportation and flood insurance, Ames could be a better fit for families with older children or those prioritizing a more rural atmosphere. Ultimately, both neighborhoods have drawbacks, so weigh your priorities before deciding which is best for you.
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