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 — $88,700 less than Chicago, IL's $353,200. WYLT rates Berwyn, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Chicago, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
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 93/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Berwyn, IL rates 6.6/10 and Chicago, IL rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Berwyn, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $265K ✓ Lower price | $353K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $71K ✓ Higher income | $69K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 11/100 | 93/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 50/100 | 64/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 72/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 22 min | 17 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 | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for affordable housing near good schoolsYoung professionals who commute to ChicagoStudents attending nearby universities | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsCommuters |
Bottom line
For families with young children, Chicago's Lincoln Square is a better choice due to its slightly better school rating and high walk score. For young professionals or students, Berwyn, IL offers more affordable housing options and a shorter commute to Chicago that outweighs its less walkable community. Overall, Berwyn is a more practical choice for those prioritizing affordability and a shorter commute.
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