Let the numbers do the talking.
Sioux City, IA vs Waterloo, IA
Sioux City, IA vs Waterloo, IA: What the data shows
Sioux City, IA is in Sioux City, IA while Waterloo, IA is in Waterloo, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Waterloo, IA is the more affordable option at $173,500 median — $46,100 less than Sioux City, IA's $219,600. WYLT rates Sioux City, 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. Sioux City, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Sioux City, IA has Low flood risk and Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk.
Sioux City, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Sioux City, IA scores 60/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Waterloo, IA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waterloo, IA has the higher school rating — Sioux City, IA rates 5.8/10 and Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Sioux City, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $220K | $174K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $544 ✓ Lower rent | $839 |
| Median Income | $17K | $60K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 60/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 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 | 5.8/10 | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Low-cost rentersYoung professionals or students who don’t mind a lack of amenitiesRemote workers who already have reliable internet | FamiliesStudentsRetirees |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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