Let the numbers do the talking.
Ankeny, IA vs Dubuque, IA
Ankeny, IA vs Dubuque, IA: What the data shows
Ankeny, IA is in Ankeny, IA while Dubuque, IA is in Dubuque, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Dubuque, IA is the more affordable option at $158,700 median — $134,300 less than Ankeny, IA's $293,000. WYLT rates Ankeny, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Dubuque, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Ankeny, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Ankeny, IA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Dubuque, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ankeny, IA has Low flood risk and Dubuque, IA has Low flood risk.
Ankeny, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ankeny, IA scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Dubuque, IA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Dubuque, IA has the higher school rating — Ankeny, IA rates 5.9/10 and Dubuque, IA rates 7.9/10.
| Category | Ankeny, IA | Dubuque, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $293K | $159K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $896 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $109K ✓ Higher income | $59K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 2/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 3/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.9/10 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommuters to Des MoinesRemote workers who need a quiet setting | Families seeking a safe, affordable communityRetirees who prefer a small townStudents and young professionals who can work remotely |
Bottom line
For families with young children, Dubuque is the better choice due to its higher school rating. For commuters to Des Moines, Ankeny is the more practical option despite its car-dependent nature. Ultimately, the decision between Ankeny and Dubuque will depend on individual priorities, with Dubuque exceling in affordability and small-town charm, while Ankeny offers a quieter setting and proximity to Des Moines.
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