Let the numbers do the talking.
Council Bluffs, IA vs Mason City, IA
Council Bluffs, IA vs Mason City, IA: What the data shows
Council Bluffs, IA is in Council Bluffs, IA while Mason City, IA is in Mason City, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Mason City, IA is the more affordable option at $129,600 median — $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 Mason City, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Mason City, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Council Bluffs, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Mason City, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Council Bluffs, IA has Low flood risk and Mason City, IA has Low flood risk.
Mason City, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Council Bluffs, IA scores N/A/100 versus Mason City, IA's 25/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Council Bluffs, IA has the higher school rating — Council Bluffs, IA rates 5.6/10 and Mason City, IA rates 5.5/10.
| Category | Council Bluffs, IA | Mason City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $130K | $130K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $979 | $838 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $56K | $62K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 25/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 17/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 36/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 60 min ✓ Shorter commute | 90 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.6/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.5/10 |
| Best for | Families seeking low-cost housingCommuters to OmahaRetirees who want a quieter, affordable town | Budget‑conscious familiesRetirees seeking a quiet settingFirst‑time homebuyers |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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