Let the numbers do the talking.
Dubuque, IA vs Urbandale, IA
Dubuque, IA vs Urbandale, IA: What the data shows
Dubuque, IA is in Dubuque, IA while Urbandale, IA is in Urbandale, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Dubuque, IA is the more affordable option at $158,700 median — $171,300 less than Urbandale, IA's $330,000. WYLT rates Dubuque, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Urbandale, 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. Urbandale, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Dubuque, IA has Low flood risk and Urbandale, IA has Low flood risk.
Urbandale, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Dubuque, IA scores N/A/100 versus Urbandale, IA's 29/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Dubuque, IA has the higher school rating — Dubuque, IA rates 7.9/10 and Urbandale, IA rates 6/10.
| Category | Dubuque, IA | Urbandale, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $159K ✓ Lower price | $330K |
| Median Rent | $896 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $59K | $85K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 29/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 1/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 1/100 ✓ 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 | 6/10 |
| Best for | Families seeking a safe, affordable communityRetirees who prefer a small townStudents and young professionals who can work remotely | Families looking for quiet suburban lifeCommuters to Des MoinesRetirees who prefer a small-town feel |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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