Let the numbers do the talking.
Ankeny, IA vs Marshalltown, IA
Ankeny, IA vs Marshalltown, IA: What the data shows
Ankeny, IA is in Ankeny, IA while Marshalltown, IA is in Marshalltown, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Marshalltown, IA is the more affordable option at $148,000 median — $145,000 less than Ankeny, IA's $293,000. WYLT rates Ankeny, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Marshalltown, 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. Marshalltown, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ankeny, IA has Low flood risk and Marshalltown, IA has Low flood risk.
Marshalltown, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ankeny, IA scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Marshalltown, IA's 32/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Ankeny, IA has the higher school rating — Ankeny, IA rates 5.9/10 and Marshalltown, IA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Ankeny, IA | Marshalltown, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $293K | $148K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $831 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $109K ✓ Higher income | $68K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 32/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 3/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesCommuters to Des MoinesRemote workers who need a quiet setting | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersAffordability seekers |
Bottom line
If you prioritize a shorter commute and slightly better schools, Ankeny is the better choice, despite being more expensive. However, if affordability is your top concern and you're willing to sacrifice some amenities and accept a longer commute, Marshalltown might be a more budget-friendly option. For most people, Ankeny's trade-offs are more manageable, making it a slightly more appealing choice.
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