Walnut, Waterloo,IA

If you’re considering a move to Waterloo, IA, the Walnut neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a welcoming community atmosphere with plenty of charm. This area is known for its mix of well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets, and a friendly vibe that makes it ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the standout features of Walnut is its access to local parks and recreational spaces, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities or peaceful weekend strolls. The neighborhood’s proximity to schools and community centers also makes it a convenient choice for those with children or who enjoy being involved in local events.

Walnut is not just about residential comfort; it also offers some unique attractions and conveniences that add to its appeal. Food lovers will appreciate the variety of dining options and local cafés scattered throughout the neighborhood, providing cozy spots to meet friends or enjoy a quiet meal. Additionally, residents often frequent the nearby cultural venues and art galleries that highlight Waterloo’s vibrant creative scene. For shoppers, there are a number of boutique stores and grocery markets that keep daily errands simple and stress-free. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy easy access to local sports complexes and fitness centers, making it easy to stay active and engaged within the community.

For those who work downtown or simply want to enjoy city amenities, Walnut’s location offers excellent accessibility. It’s just a short drive northwest to reach Downtown Waterloo, making commuting quick and straightforward. This means residents can easily take advantage of the city’s employment opportunities, entertainment venues, and special events without sacrificing the calm and charm of their neighborhood. Overall, Walnut in southeast Waterloo is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a balanced lifestyle with the conveniences of city living and the warmth of a close-knit community.

About 18% of the Walnut population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 14% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Walnut demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 326 residents, Walnut is notably smaller than many other Waterloo neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,903 people per square mile, Walnut offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Waterloo neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 40, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Walnut crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Walnut, the median home price is $70,300, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Walnut can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,014, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Walnut. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Walnut offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.