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 — $111,900 less than Chicago, IL's $268,500. 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 Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Champaign, IL has High flood risk and Chicago, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Champaign, IL scores 60/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Chicago, IL's 66/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Champaign, IL rates 7.1/10 and Chicago, IL rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Champaign, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $157K ✓ Lower price | $269K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $33K | $56K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 60/100 | 66/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | 64/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 74/100 |
| Commute | 162 min | 22 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 | 7.1/10 |
| Best for | college studentsremote workersbudget‑conscious families | StudentsFamilies on a budgetRemote workers needing a cheap commute |
Bottom line
Consider Champaign if you're a college student on a tight budget, a remote worker who needs a low-cost commute, or a budget-conscious family looking for affordable housing, but be aware of the area's high flood risk and long commute to major jobs. For everyone else, Chicago offers a more stable and convenient lifestyle, but at a higher cost. Both areas require careful consideration and may not fit the needs of families with young children or those seeking a more vibrant urban experience.
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