Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Waterloo, IA
Considering a move to Waterloo, IA? This city of nearly 68,000 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $125,000 and average rents near $950. Residents enjoy a quick average commute of just 15 minutes, plus access to respected schools and major hospitals. While crime rates are above national averages, Waterloo features a friendly community, a manageable cost of living, and a classic Midwestern climate with warm summers and snowy winters—making it a welcoming place for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Waterloo, IA
Demographics - Waterloo, IA
Waterloo is home to about 67,700 residents, with a median age of 36, reflecting a balanced, family-friendly population. The community is diverse, with a majority White population, a significant Black community, and smaller Asian and other groups, while over 7% speak a language other than English at home. With a moderate population density, Waterloo offers both the amenities of a city and the comfort of a close-knit town.
Population:
67,695
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
74.4%
Black:
16.6%
Asian:
2.7%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Waterloo, IA?
Waterloo offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $125,000 and average rents around $950, making it attractive for both renters and homeowners. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, particularly due to low housing costs, while utilities, groceries, and healthcare remain reasonably priced. State tax rates are moderate, contributing to the city’s overall budget-friendly appeal.
Median House Value:
$125,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$910
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$460
State Taxes:
Low:
0.33%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.3
Grocery:
97.0
Housing:
62.5
Utilities:
96.1
Transportation:
91.4
Health Care:
95.6
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Waterloo, IA a safe place to live?
Waterloo's crime rates are higher than the U.S. average, with residents facing a 1 in 185 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 40 chance of property crime. The city records about 539 violent crimes and 2,530 property crimes per 100,000 people annually. While safety is a consideration, many neighborhoods are actively engaged in community watch and improvement efforts.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
539
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,530
Crime Index:
3,069
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 185
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 40
Weather
What is the weather like in Waterloo, IA year-round?
Waterloo experiences all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, comfortable summers reaching highs in the low 80s. The city receives about 34.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine around 53% of the year, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Seasonal changes bring colorful falls and refreshing springs, appealing to those who appreciate classic Midwestern weather.
Winter
Min:
11°F
Max:
30°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Waterloo's residents have a median household income of about $54,800 and a family income around $66,200, while the city features a poverty rate of 17.8%. The majority of adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is just over 15 minutes. The community is known for its approachable Midwestern hospitality and strong local ties.
Median Income:
$35,000
Household Income:
$54,800
Family Income:
$66,200
Per Capita Income:
$27,600
Income Male:
$41,900
Income Female:
$32,100
Poverty Rate:
17.8%
Non English Speakers:
7.1%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.4%
Commute Time:
15.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.9%
Bachelors or More:
21.2%
Education
How are the schools in Waterloo, IA?
Waterloo features a variety of educational options, including public schools like Waterloo West High and Lou Henry Elementary, as well as private and parochial schools. Hawkeye Community College is located within the city, and the University of Northern Iowa is just seven miles away, offering higher education opportunities. The city's schools are known for favorable student-teacher ratios and community support.
Public Schools
Name:
Waterloo West High School
Street:
425 E Ridgeway Ave
Phone:
319-433-2700
Students:
1,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.3
Name:
Lou Henry Elementary School
Street:
630 Hillcrest Rd
Phone:
319-433-2460
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Private Schools
Name:
Columbus Catholic High School
Street:
3231 W 9th St
Phone:
319-233-3358
Students:
410
Colleges
Name:
Hawkeye Community College
City:
Waterloo
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,500
Name:
University of Northern Iowa
City:
Cedar Falls
State:
IA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
9,200
Healthcare
Waterloo provides quality healthcare with two major hospitals—UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital and MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center—offering comprehensive emergency and medical services. The city boasts a good physician-to-resident ratio and over 92% of residents have health insurance coverage. These resources ensure accessible and reliable healthcare for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital
Address:
1825 Logan Ave, Waterloo, IA 50703
Phone:
(319) 235-3941
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center
Address:
3421 W 9th St, Waterloo, IA 50702
Phone:
(319) 272-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
72.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Waterloo, IA?
The local housing market in Waterloo is highly affordable, with a median home price at $125,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $950. About 62% of homes are owner-occupied, and housing values have seen steady appreciation over the past year. The market remains stable, with low foreclosure and vacancy rates, making it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$125,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
The Iowa Department of Transportation operates the local DMV office at 6310 Hammond Ave, providing services like licensing and vehicle registration. Residents can access essential motor vehicle services either in person or online. The office is conveniently located to serve Waterloo and surrounding areas.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation
Address:
6310 Hammond Ave, Waterloo, IA 50701
Phone:
515-244-8725
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.