Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL 60601 vs Chicago, IL 60626
Chicago, IL 60601 vs Chicago, IL 60626: What the data shows
Chicago, IL 60601 and Chicago, IL 60626 are two ZIP codes within Chicago. On home prices, Chicago, IL 60626 is the more affordable option at $268,500 median — $288,400 less than Chicago, IL 60601's $556,900. WYLT rates Chicago, IL 60601 as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Chicago, IL 60626 as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Chicago, IL 60601 has the stronger safety profile of the two. Chicago, IL 60601 has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Chicago, IL 60626 has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL 60601 has Low flood risk and Chicago, IL 60626 has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL 60601 is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL 60601 scores 92/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Chicago, IL 60626's 66/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL 60626 has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL 60601 rates 7/10 and Chicago, IL 60626 rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL 60601 | Chicago, IL 60626 |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $557K | $269K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $121K ✓ Higher income | $56K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 92/100 ✓ More walkable | 66/100 |
| Transit Score | 62/100 | 64/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 76/100 ✓ More bikeable | 74/100 |
| Commute | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute | 22 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsCreative artistsNightlife lovers | StudentsFamilies on a budgetRemote workers needing a cheap commute |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional looking for a vibrant city experience, Chicago 60601 is the clear choice due to its exceptional walkability, nightlife, and convenient commute. However, if you're a family or student on a budget looking for affordable housing and decent schools, 60626 might be a better option despite its higher crime rate and limited green spaces. Ultimately, 60601 provides a better quality of life for those who can afford it, while 60626 offers a more affordable, if imperfect, alternative.
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