Let the numbers do the talking.
Waterloo, IA vs West Des Moines, IA
Waterloo, IA vs West Des Moines, IA: What the data shows
Waterloo, IA is in Waterloo, IA while West Des Moines, IA is in West Des Moines, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Waterloo, IA is the more affordable option at $173,500 median — $68,300 less than West Des Moines, IA's $241,800. WYLT rates Waterloo, 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.
Waterloo, IA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Waterloo, IA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. West Des Moines, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Waterloo, IA has Low flood risk and West Des Moines, IA has Low flood risk.
Waterloo, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Waterloo, IA scores 2/100 (car-dependent) versus West Des Moines, IA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Waterloo, IA rates 6.1/10 and West Des Moines, IA rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Waterloo, IA | West Des Moines, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $174K ✓ Lower price | $242K |
| Median Rent | $839 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $60K | $82K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 2/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 60 min | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.1/10 | 6.1/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesStudentsRetirees | Families looking for good schoolsYoung professionals who driveRetirees wanting a quiet suburb |
Bottom line
For families prioritizing good schools and affordability, West Des Moines is a slight edge over Waterloo due to its similar school ratings and shorter commute to Des Moines. However, if you don't mind a longer commute and are looking for the most affordable option, Waterloo might be the better choice. Ultimately, consider your priorities and lifestyle when deciding between these two neighborhoods.
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