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.
Employment
With higher than average median household income, income per capita and lower unemployment rates, this area scores extremely well in the employment category.
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.
Schools
The high score in the schools category can be attributed to outstanding test scores, elevated graduation rates and the convenient placement of elementary and high schools in this area.
Health & Safety
Subpar air quality and the limited availability of certain health-related facilities such as hospitals, police stations, doctors and pharmacies may have contributed to the low score in this category.
Waterloo, Illinois is a medium-sized city with a population of 10,746 inhabitants. If we take a look at the last Census, the vast majority of the population falls within one racial group (97% White). Given that fact, Waterloo could be considered less diverse than other cities. The average American spends about 26 minutes on their one way commute to work each day. Lower travel times can increase overall happiness and allow for more time to be spent with family and friends. While living in Waterloo, your commute times will be about average, with a one way commute time of 28 minutes.
Without the right tools, relocating to any new area can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Waterloo, Illinois could be a positive experience for anyone who puts in the effort to do the research required. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is paramount, ensuring a secure environment for you and your family. Proximity to workplaces or schools reduces commuting time and enhances convenience. Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores and healthcare facilities contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Reliable public transportation options promote easy mobility. A strong sense of community fosters social connections and a welcoming atmosphere. Finding the best places to live in Waterloo and nearby areas is a much easier task when you can rely on information and data from the livability score, which includes amenities, crime, commute, health & safety, housing and other important metrics.
Using data and statistics Waterloo has received a livability score of 81 out of 100. This score is ranked in the 95th percentile when compared to all other cities. Compared to the US average, Waterloo ranks among some of the best places to live in the country! Waterloo has also earned the rare honor of ranking in the top 10 percentile among all cities. There are nine total categories that generate the livability score. Waterloo ranks well for crime (B-), cost of living (A+), education (A-), employment (A-) and housing (A+) There are some categories that Waterloo ranks poorly for, including: amenities (D). It might be worth taking a closer look to find out why.
The Waterloo unemployment rate of 2.3% has continued to decrease over the years and is now well below the national average. The result could lead to reduced poverty and inequality in the area, higher wages and increased economic growth. This is a positive sign in the overall health of the local economy.
A healthy real estate market serves as a key economic indicator. It could signify overall local economic strength, stability and reflects consumer confidence in the area. Based on multiple factors including: median home and rental prices, appreciation rates and home affordability, Waterloo has received high marks in the housing category. Based on these calculations, the apartment rental and real estate market appears to be very healthy.
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 $358,886, which is 16.3% higher than the Illinois 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 3.4, which is 2.9% lower than the Illinois average.
| Statistic | Waterloo | Illinois | National |
| Average one way commute | 28min | 29min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 77.5% | 73.4% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 4.7% | 8.3% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.0% | 9.2% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.0% | 0.6% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 1.6% | 3.1% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 12.6% | 4.4% | 4.6% |
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