Let the numbers do the talking.
Arlington Heights, IL vs Evanston, IL
Arlington Heights, IL vs Evanston, IL: What the data shows
Arlington Heights, IL is in Arlington Heights, IL while Evanston, IL is in Evanston, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Arlington Heights, IL is the more affordable option at $404,400 median — $152,800 less than Evanston, IL's $557,200. WYLT rates Arlington Heights, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Evanston, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Arlington Heights, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Evanston, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Arlington Heights, IL has Low flood risk and Evanston, IL has Low flood risk.
Arlington Heights, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Arlington Heights, IL scores 27/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Evanston, IL's 20/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Evanston, IL has the higher school rating — Arlington Heights, IL rates 6.9/10 and Evanston, IL rates 7/10.
| Category | Arlington Heights, IL | Evanston, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $404K ✓ Lower price | $557K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $118K ✓ Higher income | $89K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 27/100 ✓ More walkable | 20/100 |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 46/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 28 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 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | suburban familiescommuters to Chicagohomebuyers with steady income | FamiliesCollege StudentsCommuters |
Bottom line
If you're prioritizing good schools and a relatively short commute to Chicago, Evanston might be the better choice despite its higher costs. However, if you're on a budget or value a slightly longer commute, Arlington Heights could offer a slightly more affordable alternative with similar benefits. Ultimately, consider both options carefully and weigh your specific needs before deciding.
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