Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Waukegan, IL
Chicago, IL vs Waukegan, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL while Waukegan, IL is in Waukegan, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Waukegan, IL is the more affordable option at $200,000 median — $356,900 less than Chicago, IL's $556,900. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Waukegan, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Chicago, IL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waukegan, IL has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Waukegan, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 92/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Waukegan, IL's 9/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 7/10 and Waukegan, IL rates 6/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Waukegan, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $557K | $200K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $121K ✓ Higher income | $59K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 92/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 62/100 ✓ Better transit | 22/100 |
| Bike Score | 76/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute | 56 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsCreative artistsNightlife lovers | Budget-conscious familiesFirst-time home buyersSuburban commuters |
Bottom line
If you value a vibrant city lifestyle, a good public transportation system, and are willing to pay a premium for amenities, Chicago 60601 might be the better choice. However, if you're on a tight budget, prioritize space over walkability, and can tolerate a lengthy commute, Waukegan could be a viable option. Ultimately, it depends on your priorities and lifestyle expectations.
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