Let the numbers do the talking.
Marshalltown, IA vs Mason City, IA
Marshalltown, IA vs Mason City, IA: What the data shows
Marshalltown, IA is in Marshalltown, IA while Mason City, IA is in Mason City, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Marshalltown, IA is the more affordable option at $124,600 median — $5,000 less than Mason City, IA's $129,600. WYLT rates Marshalltown, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Mason City, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Mason City, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Marshalltown, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Mason City, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Marshalltown, IA has Low flood risk and Mason City, IA has Low flood risk.
Marshalltown, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Marshalltown, IA scores 32/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Mason City, IA's 25/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Marshalltown, IA has the higher school rating — Marshalltown, IA rates 5.7/10 and Mason City, IA rates 5.5/10.
| Category | Marshalltown, IA | Mason City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $125K ✓ Lower price | $130K |
| Median Rent | $831 ✓ Lower rent | $838 |
| Median Income | $68K ✓ Higher income | $62K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 32/100 ✓ More walkable | 25/100 |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 36/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute | 90 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 | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.5/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersAffordability seekers | Budget‑conscious familiesRetirees seeking a quiet settingFirst‑time homebuyers |
Bottom line
For budget-conscious families and retirees seeking a quiet setting, Mason City is a more suitable option due to its lower commute time and more affordable home prices. However, for families who prioritize a small-town lifestyle with somewhat more amenities and a shorter commute, Marshalltown may be the better choice. Both neighborhoods offer a more relaxed pace of life at a lower cost than larger cities.
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