Let the numbers do the talking.
Urbandale, IA vs West Des Moines, IA
Urbandale, IA vs West Des Moines, IA: What the data shows
Urbandale, IA is in Urbandale, IA while West Des Moines, IA is in West Des Moines, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, West Des Moines, IA is the more affordable option at $241,800 median — $6,100 less than Urbandale, IA's $247,900. WYLT rates Urbandale, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and West Des Moines, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Urbandale, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. West Des Moines, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Urbandale, IA has Low flood risk and West Des Moines, IA has Low flood risk.
Urbandale, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Urbandale, IA scores 29/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus West Des Moines, IA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, West Des Moines, IA has the higher school rating — Urbandale, IA rates 6/10 and West Des Moines, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Urbandale, IA | West Des Moines, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $248K | $242K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $85K ✓ Higher income | $82K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 29/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 1/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| 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 | Families looking for good schoolsYoung professionals who driveRetirees wanting a quiet suburb |
Bottom line
Both Urbandale and West Des Moines are viable options for families and commuters to Des Moines, but they cater to slightly different needs. If you prioritize schools and affordability, West Des Moines is the better choice. If you prefer a quieter suburban life with shorter commute times, Urbandale might be the better fit.
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