Let the numbers do the talking.
Marion, IA vs Urbandale, IA
Marion, IA vs Urbandale, IA: What the data shows
Marion, IA is in Marion, IA while Urbandale, IA is in Urbandale, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Marion, IA is the more affordable option at $211,000 median — $119,000 less than Urbandale, IA's $330,000. WYLT rates Marion, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Urbandale, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Marion, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Urbandale, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Marion, IA has Low flood risk and Urbandale, IA has Low flood risk.
Urbandale, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Marion, IA scores N/A/100 versus Urbandale, IA's 29/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Marion, IA has the higher school rating — Marion, IA rates 6.1/10 and Urbandale, IA rates 6/10.
| Category | Marion, IA | Urbandale, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $211K ✓ Lower price | $330K |
| Median Rent | $897 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $82K | $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 | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 20 min | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6/10 |
| Best for | affordable familiesfirst‑time homebuyersremote workers with car access | Families looking for quiet suburban lifeCommuters to Des MoinesRetirees who prefer a small-town feel |
Bottom line
For families looking for a quieter, low-cost suburban living experience, Marion is a slightly more affordable option that still offers decent schools. For those who prioritize convenience and proximity to amenities, but also want a relatively affordable lifestyle, Urbandale may be a better fit. Both areas have their drawbacks, but ultimately, Marion is best for first-time homebuyers and remote workers on a budget, while Urbandale caters to those who can afford a slightly higher price point for its proximity to Des Moines.
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