Let the numbers do the talking.
Dubuque, IA vs Marion, IA
Dubuque, IA vs Marion, IA: What the data shows
Dubuque, IA is in Dubuque, IA while Marion, IA is in Marion, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Dubuque, IA is the more affordable option at $158,700 median — $52,300 less than Marion, IA's $211,000. WYLT rates Dubuque, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Marion, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Dubuque, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Dubuque, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Marion, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Dubuque, IA has Low flood risk and Marion, IA has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Dubuque, IA has the higher school rating — Dubuque, IA rates 7.9/10 and Marion, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Dubuque, IA | Marion, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $159K ✓ Lower price | $211K |
| Median Rent | $896 ✓ Lower rent | $897 |
| Median Income | $59K | $82K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.1/10 |
| Best for | Families seeking a safe, affordable communityRetirees who prefer a small townStudents and young professionals who can work remotely | affordable familiesfirst‑time homebuyersremote workers with car access |
Bottom line
For a family with a high school rating as a priority, Dubuque is the better choice. However, if affordability is key and a shorter commute to a larger city is a must, Marion might be a more suitable option. Ultimately, both neighborhoods are solid choices for those who value a quiet, low-cost lifestyle.
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