Let the numbers do the talking.
Berwyn, IL vs Chicago, IL
Berwyn, IL vs Chicago, IL: What the data shows
Berwyn, IL is in Berwyn, IL while Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Berwyn, IL is the more affordable option at $264,500 median — $222,500 less than Chicago, IL's $487,000. WYLT rates Berwyn, 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. Berwyn, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Berwyn, IL has Low flood risk and Chicago, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Berwyn, IL scores 11/100 (car-dependent) versus Chicago, IL's 70/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Berwyn, IL rates 6.6/10 and Chicago, IL rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Berwyn, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $265K ✓ Lower price | $487K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $71K | $120K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 11/100 | 70/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 50/100 | 62/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 76/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 22 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 | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.6/10 | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for affordable housing near good schoolsYoung professionals who commute to ChicagoStudents attending nearby universities | Young professionalsFamilies with school‑age kidsCollege students |
Bottom line
If you're a family looking for affordable housing and good schools with some flexibility to commute, Berwyn is the better choice. If a short commute, high quality of life, and top-rated schools are non-negotiable, Chicago offers a better experience, but be prepared to pay for it. Ultimately, Berwyn's trade-offs may suit budget-conscious families, while Chicago's perks are worth the higher price for professionals and high-income earners.
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