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 — $130,500 less than Chicago, IL's $395,000. 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 59/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Berwyn, IL rates 6.6/10 and Chicago, IL rates 7/10.
| Category | Berwyn, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $265K ✓ Lower price | $395K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $71K | $84K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 11/100 | 59/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 50/100 | 52/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 22 min | 18 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 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for affordable housing near good schoolsYoung professionals who commute to ChicagoStudents attending nearby universities | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers |
Bottom line
For families looking for affordable housing near good schools, Berwyn is a slightly better option due to its lower housing prices and decent school system. However, for professionals, students, and remote workers who value proximity to the city and a lively neighborhood, Chicago's North Center offers a more desirable living experience despite its higher costs. Overall, these two neighborhoods cater to different priorities.
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