Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Cicero, IL
Chicago, IL vs Cicero, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL while Cicero, IL is in Cicero, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Cicero, IL is the more affordable option at $224,300 median — $97,300 less than Chicago, IL's $321,600. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Cicero, 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. Cicero, IL has High violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Cicero, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 60/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Cicero, IL's 6/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 6.8/10 and Cicero, IL rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Cicero, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $322K | $224K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $67K ✓ Higher income | $64K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 60/100 ✓ More walkable | 6/100 |
| Transit Score | 62/100 ✓ Better transit | 22/100 |
| Bike Score | 60/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 10 min ✓ Shorter commute | 19 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.7/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsFood loversTransit users | budget commutersdelivery driversHispanic families |
Bottom line
Based on these two neighborhoods, Chicago is a better choice for those who value walkability and public transportation, or for young professionals who prioritize nightlife and convenience. For families or those on a tight budget, Cicero's lower cost may seem appealing, but the drawbacks of a low walk score, crime, and noise make it not worth the compromise. Ultimately, Chicago is a more sustainable choice for most people, but Cicero might be a last resort option for limited budgets or specific circumstances.
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