Let the numbers do the talking.
Champaign, IL vs Chicago, IL
Champaign, IL vs Chicago, IL: What the data shows
Champaign, IL is in Champaign, IL while Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Champaign, IL is the more affordable option at $156,600 median — $149,800 less than Chicago, IL's $306,400. WYLT rates Champaign, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Chicago, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Champaign, IL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Champaign, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Chicago, IL has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Champaign, IL has High flood risk and Chicago, IL has Low flood risk.
Champaign, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Champaign, IL scores 60/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Chicago, IL's 46/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Champaign, IL has the higher school rating — Champaign, IL rates 7.1/10 and Chicago, IL rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Champaign, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $157K ✓ Lower price | $306K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $33K | $57K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 60/100 ✓ More walkable | 46/100 |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | 52/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 36/100 |
| Commute | 162 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 | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | college studentsremote workersbudget‑conscious families | Young professionalsRentersStudents |
Bottom line
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