2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Waterloo, IA vs Independence, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Independence older or younger than people in Waterloo?
- The Median Age in Independence is 4.5 years older than in Waterloo.

Are housing costs cheaper in Independence or Waterloo?
- Independence housing costs are 44.2% more expensive than Waterloo housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Independence or Waterloo?
- The average commute for residents of Independence is 2.6 minutes longer than it is for residents of Waterloo.

Things to do in Waterloo?
Waterloo, Iowa is a charming city located in the heart of northeast Iowa. It features a small-town atmosphere combined with big city amenities. Residents here enjoy plenty of shopping and entertainment options such as Crossroads Mall or the National Cattle Congress Grounds. There are also several outdoor activities to take part in at George Wyth State Park or Sullivan Lake. With its strong economy, scenic beauty and amazing attractions, it's no wonder why so many people choose to call Waterloo their home!

Things to do in Independence?
It is a pleasure to live in Independence, IA. The small town atmosphere of the community gives off a sense of warmth and familiarity. The people here are welcoming and friendly, making it easy to build relationships with the locals. With a low cost of living, there is plenty of affordable housing available for those looking to settle down in this tight-knit community. There are plenty of activities to do outdoors, including golfing at the local course, fishing on the Wapsipinicon River and biking along the many trails nearby. With a variety of restaurants and shops, there is something for everyone in Independence. From its friendly people to its rich history, it's easy to understand why so many choose to call Independence home.

 Waterloo, IAIndependence, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock6,088329,725,481
 Median Income$49,430  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$121,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.53  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Waterloo    5 Reviews

The bike racks recently installed on the MET buses was a great idea for a community that has numerous bike riders and  More

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Over 17 years ago

Unless you're into getting wasted on a regular basis there's not a lot to do here. Most people barhop for fun. Being someone who doesn't drink and doesn't enjoy being  More

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Over 17 years ago

So the weather is emotional here - on and off during the summer its hot and rainy, yet during the fall it is quite often beautiful. Winters can be long, and spring can  More

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Reviews for Independence    0 Reviews

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