Let the numbers do the talking.
Ankeny, IA vs Waterloo, IA
Ankeny, IA vs Waterloo, IA: What the data shows
Ankeny, IA is in Ankeny, 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 — $119,500 less than Ankeny, IA's $293,000. WYLT rates Ankeny, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Waterloo, 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. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ankeny, IA has Low flood risk and Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk.
Ankeny, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Ankeny, IA scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Waterloo, IA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waterloo, IA has the higher school rating — Ankeny, IA rates 5.9/10 and Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Ankeny, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $293K | $174K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $839 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $109K ✓ Higher income | $60K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 2/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 3/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| 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 | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommuters to Des MoinesRemote workers who need a quiet setting | FamiliesStudentsRetirees |
Bottom line
For families looking to move to a more suburban area with good schools, Ankeny has a slight edge due to its slightly better school rating and shorter commute to Des Moines. For remote workers or budget-conscious individuals who prioritize affordability and don't need to commute to Des Moines, Waterloo might be a better fit due to its significantly lower home prices and relatively stable school ratings. Ultimately, these neighborhoods won't impress those seeking a vibrant downtown or convenient public transit, but they're solid options for specific lifestyles.
Share this comparison