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Bettendorf, IA vs West Des Moines, IA
Bettendorf, IA vs West Des Moines, IA: What the data shows
Bettendorf, IA is in Bettendorf, IA while West Des Moines, IA is in West Des Moines, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Bettendorf, IA is the more affordable option at $278,500 median — $6,500 less than West Des Moines, IA's $285,000. WYLT rates Bettendorf, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and West Des Moines, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Bettendorf, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Bettendorf, IA has Moderate violent crime and Low property crime. West Des Moines, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bettendorf, IA has Low flood risk and West Des Moines, IA has Low flood risk.
Bettendorf, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Bettendorf, IA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus West Des Moines, IA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, West Des Moines, IA has the higher school rating — Bettendorf, IA rates 5.6/10 and West Des Moines, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Bettendorf, IA | West Des Moines, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $279K ✓ Lower price | $285K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $102K ✓ Higher income | $82K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 1/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 35 min | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B- ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| 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 | Families looking for good schoolsYoung professionals who driveRetirees wanting a quiet suburb |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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