Let the numbers do the talking.
Cedar Falls, IA vs West Des Moines, IA
Cedar Falls, IA vs West Des Moines, IA: What the data shows
Cedar Falls, IA is in Cedar Falls, IA while West Des Moines, IA is in West Des Moines, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Cedar Falls, IA is the more affordable option at $250,000 median — $35,000 less than West Des Moines, IA's $285,000. WYLT rates Cedar Falls, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and West Des Moines, 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. West Des Moines, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Cedar Falls, IA has Low flood risk and West Des Moines, IA has Low flood risk.
Cedar Falls, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Cedar Falls, IA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus West Des Moines, IA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Cedar Falls, IA has the higher school rating — Cedar Falls, IA rates 6.2/10 and West Des Moines, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Cedar Falls, IA | West Des Moines, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $250K ✓ Lower price | $285K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $72K | $82K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| 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 | 6.1/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenFirst-time homebuyersRemote workers who can 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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