Let the numbers do the talking.
Ames, IA vs Waterloo, IA
Ames, IA vs Waterloo, IA: What the data shows
Ames, IA is in Ames, IA while Waterloo, IA is in Waterloo, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Waterloo, IA is the more affordable option at $173,500 median — $62,200 less than Ames, IA's $235,700. WYLT rates Ames, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Waterloo, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Ames, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ames, IA has High flood risk and Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk.
Waterloo, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ames, IA scores N/A/100 versus Waterloo, IA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waterloo, IA has the higher school rating — Ames, IA rates 4.7/10 and Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Ames, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $236K | $174K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $946 | $839 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $65K ✓ Higher income | $60K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 2/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.7/10 | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | familiesstudentsremote workers | FamiliesStudentsRetirees |
Bottom line
Waterloo offers the best overall value: cheaper homes,
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