Moving to Iowa (Waterloo, Russell: apartments, job, crime)

[Iowa Bound66]

Hello Everyone! I am from Chicago and I will be moving in the Waterloo area in the next couple of weeks. My new job is in the 4th St. and the Cedar River area.

I will be in the area later this week to look for a furnished apartment that allows pets. I have two cats.

I've been reading threads about the Waterloo area in the last couple of weeks and found there are some bad areas. Is the immediate vicinity of 4th and the Cedar River a decent area? What about 2nd St. and Lafayette St?

I am going to see the Russell Lamson building to check out apartments when I am in town this week? Does anyone know about this building and the area?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Chicago60614]

There's only around 1 murder per year in Waterloo, and the state really doesn't have much crime. Coming from Chicago, I wouldn't worry about it too much.

Unfortunately, Waterloo also has the reputation as being THE trash heap of Iowa. Growing up here, any time the cities name was mentioned people always immediately go the "eww" look on their face.

I don't visit the city much, but be prepared to be backed into the corner by the rest of the state for being from "there". What are you moving there for specifically?

[Iowa Bound66]

For a new job. The opportunity was too good to turn down.