Let the numbers do the talking.
Ames, IA vs Urbandale, IA
Ames, IA vs Urbandale, IA: What the data shows
Ames, IA is in Ames, IA while Urbandale, IA is in Urbandale, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Ames, IA is the more affordable option at $235,700 median — $94,300 less than Urbandale, IA's $330,000. WYLT rates Ames, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Urbandale, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Ames, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Ames, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Urbandale, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ames, IA has High flood risk and Urbandale, IA has Low flood risk.
Urbandale, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ames, IA scores N/A/100 versus Urbandale, IA's 29/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Urbandale, IA has the higher school rating — Ames, IA rates 4.7/10 and Urbandale, IA rates 6/10.
| Category | Ames, IA | Urbandale, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $236K ✓ Lower price | $330K |
| Median Rent | $946 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $65K | $85K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 29/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 1/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| 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 | 6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | familiesstudentsremote workers | Families looking for quiet suburban lifeCommuters to Des MoinesRetirees who prefer a small-town feel |
Bottom line
If you prioritize a more affordable home and a quieter atmosphere, Ames might be the better choice, despite its flood concerns and car-dependent lifestyle. However, for those willing to pay a premium for better schools and a slightly more connected community, Urbandale is a more well-rounded option. Ultimately, Urbandale's higher median home price is somewhat justified by its superior overall quality of life and proximity to Des Moines.
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