Let the numbers do the talking.
Council Bluffs, IA vs Marshalltown, IA
Council Bluffs, IA vs Marshalltown, IA: What the data shows
Council Bluffs, IA is in Council Bluffs, IA while Marshalltown, IA is in Marshalltown, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Marshalltown, IA is the more affordable option at $124,600 median — $5,700 less than Council Bluffs, IA's $130,300. WYLT rates Council Bluffs, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Marshalltown, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Council Bluffs, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Marshalltown, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Council Bluffs, IA has Low flood risk and Marshalltown, IA has Low flood risk.
Marshalltown, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Council Bluffs, IA scores N/A/100 versus Marshalltown, IA's 32/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Marshalltown, IA has the higher school rating — Council Bluffs, IA rates 5.6/10 and Marshalltown, IA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Council Bluffs, IA | Marshalltown, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $130K | $125K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $979 | $831 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $56K | $68K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 32/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 60 min | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.6/10 | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families seeking low-cost housingCommuters to OmahaRetirees who want a quieter, affordable town | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersAffordability seekers |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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