Let the numbers do the talking.
Ames, IA vs Sioux City, IA
Ames, IA vs Sioux City, IA: What the data shows
Ames, IA is in Ames, IA while Sioux City, IA is in Sioux City, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Ames, IA is the more affordable option at $235,700 median — $24,300 less than Sioux City, IA's $260,000. WYLT rates Ames, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Sioux City, 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. Sioux City, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ames, IA has High flood risk and Sioux City, IA has Low flood risk.
Sioux City, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ames, IA scores N/A/100 versus Sioux City, IA's 60/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Sioux City, IA has the higher school rating — Ames, IA rates 4.7/10 and Sioux City, IA rates 5.8/10.
| Category | Ames, IA | Sioux City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $236K ✓ Lower price | $260K |
| Median Rent | $946 | $544 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $65K ✓ Higher income | $17K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 60/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| 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 | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.7/10 | 5.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | familiesstudentsremote workers | Low-cost rentersYoung professionals or students who don’t mind a lack of amenitiesRemote workers who already have reliable internet |
Bottom line
For those prioritizing affordability and decent schools, Sioux City's 51101 may be the better choice, despite its limitations. Ames is more suitable for families and students who value a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere and are willing to invest in a car and budget for flood insurance. Overall, Sioux City has a slight edge for young professionals and remote workers due to its lower commute time and slightly better walkability.
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