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 — $41,900 less than Chicago, IL's $306,400. WYLT rates Berwyn, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Chicago, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Berwyn, IL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Berwyn, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Chicago, IL has High violent crime and High 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 46/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Berwyn, IL rates 6.6/10 and Chicago, IL rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Berwyn, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $265K ✓ Lower price | $306K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $71K ✓ Higher income | $57K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 11/100 | 46/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 50/100 | 52/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 36/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 22 min | 13 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.6/10 | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for affordable housing near good schoolsYoung professionals who commute to ChicagoStudents attending nearby universities | Young professionalsRentersStudents |
Bottom line
For families looking for affordable housing near good schools, settle in Berwyn. For single professionals or renters who prioritize being close to Chicago, Chicago might be a better choice due to its shorter commute, but be aware of the high crime rates and noise.
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