Let the numbers do the talking.
Des Moines, IA vs Waterloo, IA
Des Moines, IA vs Waterloo, IA: What the data shows
Des Moines, IA is in Des Moines, IA while Waterloo, IA is in Waterloo, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Waterloo, IA is the more affordable option at $173,500 median — $135,800 less than Des Moines, IA's $309,300. WYLT rates Des Moines, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Waterloo, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Waterloo, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Des Moines, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Des Moines, IA has Low flood risk and Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk.
Des Moines, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Des Moines, IA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Waterloo, IA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Des Moines, IA rates 6.1/10 and Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Des Moines, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $309K | $174K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $839 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $58K | $60K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 57/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 25 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.1/10 | 6.1/10 |
| Best for | young professionalsremote workerssmall families with kids | FamiliesStudentsRetirees |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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