Amenities
Conveniently located, the area boasts a variety of amenities, including grocery stores, shopping, coffee shops and entertainment options all within walking distance.
Commute
The high commute score in this area could imply easy access to public transportation, as well as shorter-than-average commute times to your workplace.
Cost Of Living
Everyday cost of living expenses like goods and services, housing, groceries, transportation, health care and utilities are far below the national average.
Housing
Impressive scores in the housing category characterize this area, potentially attributed to the availability of affordable housing, strong appreciation rates and high home values.
Health & Safety
Accessible health facilities like hospitals, doctors offices, clinics and nursing homes as well as good air quality are all factors that have led to a high score in this category.
Crime
Reporting high crime rates per 100,000 people, this area may be perceived as an unsafe place to reside. These statistics encompass both violent and property crime rates.
Employment
This area earns a low score in the employment category due to low household income levels and high unemployment rates, which may pose challenges in seeking job opportunities.
Waterloo, Iowa is a medium-sized city with a population of 67,671 residents. If we look at the most recent Census, Waterloo is known to have a predominantly White population. The next two most common races are Black and Asian. If you prefer shorter commutes, living in Waterloo will be a delight. With an average one-way commute time of just 16 minutes, traveling to and from work is notably more convenient than the national average, which stands at 26 minutes.
If you’re considering moving to any new city, it could be a very intimidating task. However, it could also be a positive experience if you are willing to get to know the area before actually living in Waterloo, Iowa. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is of utmost importance, ensuring a secure environment with low crime. Proximity to your workplace or school helps reduce commuting time and offers convenience. Access to amenities such as parks, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities enhances your daily life. Public transportation options contribute to easy mobility. A sense of community fosters a supportive and engaging environment. Lastly, the overall atmosphere should align with your desired lifestyle, ensuring a fulfilling living experience. Considering these items will guide you towards finding the perfect neighborhood that fits all your needs. The best areas in Waterloo and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from amenities, crime, commute, employment, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Iowa and national averages.
Waterloo has a livability score of 80/100 and is ranked #47 in Iowa and #1,326 in the USA. Pack your bags! This is a very high score in comparison to other US cities. Living in Waterloo could be a great choice! Waterloo is also ranked in the top 10 percentile of all cities across the USA. If we take a closer look at each of the categories individually, we see that Waterloo ranks well for amenities (B+) and housing (B+). Waterloo does not score well for the following: crime (F) and employment (D-). It might be a good idea to take a closer look at each category to find out why.
Waterloo has many conveniently situated amenities and captivating attractions that adds to the continuous enjoyment of your everyday life. Having the assurance of abundant conveniences and a wide array of activities ensures your easy access to nearby grocery stores, restaurants, bars, fitness facilities, coffee shops and exciting entertainment options. This not only simplifies daily routines but also fosters a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle within the community. With a wealth of resources at your fingertips, you can savor the convenience and variety that Waterloo has to offer, making it a desirable destination for those seeking both accessibility and enjoyment in their daily lives. Here are some of the more popular things to do in Waterloo: Lost Island Water Park, Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, and Waterloo Center for the Arts.
For home buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they will ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Waterloo apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.
Waterloo real estate prices and overall affordability will play a huge role in determining if the area is the right fit for you. Of course there are probably some other items on your “wish list”, but even before they are considered, let’s take a look at the home prices and affordability in Waterloo. The median home price for Waterloo homes is $117,000, which is 11.9% lower than the Iowa average. If we take a closer look at the affordability of homes in Waterloo, we’ll see that the home price to income ratio is 2.5, which is 4.2% higher than the Iowa average.
| Statistic | Waterloo | Iowa | National |
| Average one way commute | 16min | 19min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 78.2% | 80.7% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 13.8% | 8.6% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.9% | 1.1% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.1% | 0.5% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 1.5% | 3.5% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 4.4% | 4.5% | 4.6% |
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