Let the numbers do the talking.
Arlington Heights, IL vs Chicago, IL
Arlington Heights, IL vs Chicago, IL: What the data shows
Arlington Heights, IL is in Arlington Heights, IL while Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Arlington Heights, IL is the more affordable option at $404,400 median — $82,600 less than Chicago, IL's $487,000. WYLT rates Arlington Heights, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Chicago, IL as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Arlington Heights, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Arlington Heights, IL has Low flood risk and Chicago, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Arlington Heights, IL scores 27/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Chicago, IL's 70/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Arlington Heights, IL rates 6.9/10 and Chicago, IL rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Arlington Heights, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $404K ✓ Lower price | $487K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $118K | $120K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 27/100 | 70/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 62/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 76/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | suburban familiescommuters to Chicagohomebuyers with steady income | Young professionalsFamilies with school‑age kidsCollege students |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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