Let the numbers do the talking.
Marshalltown, IA vs Sioux City, IA
Marshalltown, IA vs Sioux City, IA: What the data shows
Marshalltown, IA is in Marshalltown, IA while Sioux City, IA is in Sioux City, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Marshalltown, IA is the more affordable option at $124,600 median — $95,000 less than Sioux City, IA's $219,600. WYLT rates Marshalltown, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Sioux City, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Marshalltown, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Sioux City, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Marshalltown, IA has Low flood risk and Sioux City, IA has Low flood risk.
Sioux City, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Marshalltown, IA scores 32/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Sioux City, IA's 60/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Sioux City, IA has the higher school rating — Marshalltown, IA rates 5.7/10 and Sioux City, IA rates 5.8/10.
| Category | Marshalltown, IA | Sioux City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $125K ✓ Lower price | $220K |
| Median Rent | $831 | $544 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $68K ✓ Higher income | $17K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 32/100 | 60/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 45 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.7/10 | 5.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersAffordability seekers | Low-cost rentersYoung professionals or students who don’t mind a lack of amenitiesRemote workers who already have reliable internet |
Bottom line
For families with young children or those seeking a small-town lifestyle, Marshalltown might be a slightly better fit due to its more affordable housing costs and slightly higher school ratings. However, for young professionals or remote workers who prioritize affordability and don't need a lot of amenities, Sioux City's 51101 might be a more suitable option. Overall, both neighborhoods share similar caveats and are essentially "think twice" neighborhoods.
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