Let the numbers do the talking.
Cedar Falls, IA vs Urbandale, IA
Cedar Falls, IA vs Urbandale, IA: What the data shows
Cedar Falls, IA is in Cedar Falls, IA while Urbandale, IA is in Urbandale, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Cedar Falls, IA is the more affordable option at $250,000 median — $80,000 less than Urbandale, IA's $330,000. WYLT rates Cedar Falls, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Urbandale, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Cedar Falls, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Cedar Falls, IA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Urbandale, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Cedar Falls, IA has Low flood risk and Urbandale, IA has Low flood risk.
Urbandale, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Cedar Falls, IA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Urbandale, IA's 29/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Cedar Falls, IA has the higher school rating — Cedar Falls, IA rates 6.2/10 and Urbandale, IA rates 6/10.
| Category | Cedar Falls, IA | Urbandale, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $250K ✓ Lower price | $330K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $72K | $85K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 29/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 1/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 30 min | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| 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 | 6.2/10 ✓ Better schools | 6/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenFirst-time homebuyersRemote workers who can drive | Families looking for quiet suburban lifeCommuters to Des MoinesRetirees who prefer a small-town feel |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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