This guide is for new air traffic controllers assigned to Waterloo Tower (ALO), helping you get settled in this friendly and affordable Midwest community.
Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is a small commercial service airport located just north of the city. The tower supports general aviation, commercial flights (currently operated by American Airlines), and military activity from the nearby Iowa Air National Guard. The facility offers a low-stress environment, ideal for gaining experience and enjoying work-life balance.
Affordable housing options abound in Waterloo and neighboring Cedar Falls. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $700 to $1,000. Popular neighborhoods include the College Hill area near the University of Northern Iowa, Elk Run Heights, and neighborhoods around downtown Cedar Falls.
Most people live within a 10–20 minute drive of the airport. Traffic is minimal, and the airport is easily accessible via Highway 218. Public transportation is limited, so a personal vehicle is recommended for commuting.
Waterloo and Cedar Falls offer solid public school options, with Cedar Falls School District often ranked higher academically. For higher education, the University of Northern Iowa is a major regional university located in nearby Cedar Falls.
Outdoor activities are abundant, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating at George Wyth State Park. Downtown Cedar Falls features boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants. The John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum and Waterloo Center for the Arts are also popular local attractions.
In addition to ALO, you’ll find several regional and general aviation airports such as Independence Municipal Airport (IIB), Waverly Municipal (C25), and The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) in Cedar Rapids, which is about an hour’s drive and offers expanded commercial service.
The cost of living in Waterloo is well below the national average. Housing, groceries, and utilities are all affordable. Iowa has relatively low property taxes and no state sales tax on groceries or prescription drugs.
Expect cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. Snowfall averages around 35 inches per year, and temperatures can dip below zero in January. Spring and fall are short but pleasant. Thunderstorms are common in the summer, and tornado season peaks in late spring.
MET Transit provides bus service around Waterloo and limited connections to Cedar Falls. However, most people rely on personal vehicles to get around due to limited hours and routes.
Major healthcare providers include UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital and MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center. Numerous urgent care facilities and clinics are located throughout the region.
While Waterloo has a slower pace than larger cities, the nearby Cedar Falls area offers a lively college-town atmosphere. Live music, farmers markets, festivals, and UNI Panthers sports events add to the social scene. You’ll also find plenty of local breweries, such as SingleSpeed Brewing Company.
Waterloo and Cedar Falls are home to a growing number of great food spots. Local favorites include Galleria de Paco, Newton's Paradise Café, and Montage. There are also classic Midwestern diners, steakhouses, and BBQ joints across the area.
Is ALO a good facility for new controllers?
Yes. It's a low-volume, low-stress tower that's ideal for gaining confidence and refining skills.
Do I need a car?
Yes. Public transportation is very limited, and a vehicle is highly recommended.
Where do most controllers live?
Waterloo and Cedar Falls are both popular, with Cedar Falls offering more amenities and newer housing options.