Let the numbers do the talking.
Burlington, IA vs Waterloo, IA
Burlington, IA vs Waterloo, IA: What the data shows
Burlington, IA is in Burlington, IA while Waterloo, IA is in Waterloo, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Burlington, IA is the more affordable option at $121,500 median — $52,000 less than Waterloo, IA's $173,500. WYLT rates Burlington, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Waterloo, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Burlington, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Burlington, IA has Low flood risk and Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk.
Burlington, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Burlington, IA scores 8/100 (car-dependent) versus Waterloo, IA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Burlington, IA rates 6.1/10 and Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Burlington, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $122K ✓ Lower price | $174K |
| Median Rent | $891 | $839 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $54K | $60K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 8/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 2/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 2/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.1/10 | 6.1/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesRetireesRemote workers with reliable internet | FamiliesStudentsRetirees |
Bottom line
Burlington is the better choice for those prioritizing affordability and a slightly more walkable environment, while Waterloo is a better fit for those willing to trade off walkability for slightly better schools and a more established community. For commuters to Des Moines, Burlington's shorter commute time makes it the more practical option. Overall, the decision between the two comes down to individual priorities, with neither neighborhood standing out significantly from the other.
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