Let the numbers do the talking.
Bettendorf, IA vs Waterloo, IA
Bettendorf, IA vs Waterloo, IA: What the data shows
Bettendorf, IA is in Bettendorf, 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 — $105,000 less than Bettendorf, IA's $278,500. WYLT rates Bettendorf, 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.
Waterloo, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Bettendorf, IA has Moderate violent crime and Low property crime. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bettendorf, IA has Low flood risk and Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk.
Bettendorf, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Bettendorf, IA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Waterloo, IA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waterloo, IA has the higher school rating — Bettendorf, IA rates 5.6/10 and Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Bettendorf, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $279K | $174K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $839 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $102K ✓ Higher income | $60K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 1/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B- | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.6/10 | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with childrenMiddle‑income earnersCommuters willing to drive | FamiliesStudentsRetirees |
Bottom line
If you're looking for a slightly more walkable area with a shorter commute, Bettendorf may be the better choice despite its limitations. However, if affordability is your top priority, Waterloo offers significantly lower median home prices, making it a more budget-friendly option for families and retirees. Ultimately, Waterloo is the better value, but Bettendorf has a slightly more convenient location.
Share this comparison