Let the numbers do the talking.
Marshalltown, IA vs Waterloo, IA
Marshalltown, IA vs Waterloo, IA: What the data shows
Marshalltown, IA is in Marshalltown, IA while Waterloo, IA is in Waterloo, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Marshalltown, IA is the more affordable option at $124,600 median — $48,900 less than Waterloo, IA's $173,500. WYLT rates Marshalltown, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Waterloo, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Waterloo, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Marshalltown, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Marshalltown, IA has Low flood risk and Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk.
Marshalltown, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Marshalltown, IA scores 32/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Waterloo, IA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waterloo, IA has the higher school rating — Marshalltown, IA rates 5.7/10 and Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Marshalltown, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $125K ✓ Lower price | $174K |
| Median Rent | $831 ✓ Lower rent | $839 |
| Median Income | $68K ✓ Higher income | $60K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 32/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 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 | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersAffordability seekers | FamiliesStudentsRetirees |
Bottom line
For families and affordability seekers, Marshalltown might be a slightly better choice if you're okay with a small-town lifestyle, despite the lack of amenities and car costs. If you prioritize decent schools and a slightly longer commute is manageable, Waterloo could work well, offering a more stable choice. Ultimately, Marshalltown is the more affordable, budget-friendly option.
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