Let the numbers do the talking.
Arlington Heights, IL vs Champaign, IL
Arlington Heights, IL vs Champaign, IL: What the data shows
Arlington Heights, IL is in Arlington Heights, IL while Champaign, IL is in Champaign, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Champaign, IL is the more affordable option at $156,600 median — $247,800 less than Arlington Heights, IL's $404,400. WYLT rates Arlington Heights, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Champaign, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Arlington Heights, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Champaign, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Arlington Heights, IL has Low flood risk and Champaign, IL has High flood risk.
Champaign, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Arlington Heights, IL scores 27/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Champaign, IL's 60/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Champaign, IL has the higher school rating — Arlington Heights, IL rates 6.9/10 and Champaign, IL rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Arlington Heights, IL | Champaign, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $404K | $157K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $118K ✓ Higher income | $33K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 27/100 | 60/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 70/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute | 162 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | suburban familiescommuters to Chicagohomebuyers with steady income | college studentsremote workersbudget‑conscious families |
Bottom line
For a family or commuter who values good schools and can handle car dependence, Arlington Heights is a better choice. However, for students, remote workers on a tight budget, or environmentally conscious individuals, Champaign's affordability and bikeability may make it a suitable option. Overall, choose Arlington Heights for stability and comfort, or Champaign for a more budget-friendly but riskier lifestyle.
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