Let the numbers do the talking.
Ankeny, IA vs Bettendorf, IA
Ankeny, IA vs Bettendorf, IA: What the data shows
Ankeny, IA is in Ankeny, IA while Bettendorf, IA is in Bettendorf, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Bettendorf, IA is the more affordable option at $278,500 median — $14,500 less than Ankeny, IA's $293,000. WYLT rates Ankeny, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Bettendorf, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Ankeny, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Ankeny, IA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Bettendorf, IA has Moderate violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Ankeny, IA has Low flood risk and Bettendorf, IA has Low flood risk.
Bettendorf, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ankeny, IA scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Bettendorf, IA's 18/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Ankeny, IA has the higher school rating — Ankeny, IA rates 5.9/10 and Bettendorf, IA rates 5.6/10.
| Category | Ankeny, IA | Bettendorf, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $293K | $279K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $109K ✓ Higher income | $102K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 18/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | 3/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B- |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low | Low |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.6/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesCommuters to Des MoinesRemote workers who need a quiet setting | Families with childrenMiddle‑income earnersCommuters willing to drive |
Bottom line
If you prioritize a more convenient, smaller-town lifestyle with solid schools, Ankeny might be the better choice, but be prepared for limited walkability and public transit options. On the other hand, Bettendorf is a better option for families and commuters who need a more affordable place to live, despite its car dependence and lack of walkability. Ultimately, the two neighborhoods are close alternatives, but Ankeny wins for those seeking a quieter, family-friendly environment with slightly better schools.
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