Let the numbers do the talking.
Dubuque, IA vs Marshalltown, IA
Dubuque, IA vs Marshalltown, IA: What the data shows
Dubuque, IA is in Dubuque, IA while Marshalltown, IA is in Marshalltown, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Marshalltown, IA is the more affordable option at $148,000 median — $10,700 less than Dubuque, IA's $158,700. WYLT rates Dubuque, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Marshalltown, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Dubuque, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Dubuque, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Marshalltown, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Dubuque, IA has Low flood risk and Marshalltown, IA has Low flood risk.
Marshalltown, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Dubuque, IA scores N/A/100 versus Marshalltown, IA's 32/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Dubuque, IA has the higher school rating — Dubuque, IA rates 7.9/10 and Marshalltown, IA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Dubuque, IA | Marshalltown, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $159K | $148K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $896 | $831 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $59K | $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 | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| 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 | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | Families seeking a safe, affordable communityRetirees who prefer a small townStudents and young professionals who can work remotely | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersAffordability seekers |
Bottom line
If you prioritize affordability, a small-town lifestyle, and don't mind a longer commute, Marshalltown might be a better fit. However, if you value safer schools, a lower crime environment, and are willing to accept some car dependency, Dubuque offers a more stable choice. Ultimately, Dubuque edges out Marshalltown as a slightly more reliable option.
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