Let the numbers do the talking.
Urbandale, IA vs Waterloo, IA
Urbandale, IA vs Waterloo, IA: What the data shows
Urbandale, IA is in Urbandale, 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 — $74,400 less than Urbandale, IA's $247,900. WYLT rates Urbandale, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Waterloo, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Waterloo, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Urbandale, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Urbandale, IA has Low flood risk and Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk.
Urbandale, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Urbandale, IA scores 29/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Waterloo, IA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waterloo, IA has the higher school rating — Urbandale, IA rates 6/10 and Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Urbandale, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $248K | $174K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $839 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $85K ✓ Higher income | $60K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 29/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 1/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 20 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 | 6/10 | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for quiet suburban lifeCommuters to Des MoinesRetirees who prefer a small-town feel | FamiliesStudentsRetirees |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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