Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Naperville, IL
Chicago, IL vs Naperville, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL while Naperville, IL is in Naperville, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Chicago, IL is the more affordable option at $395,000 median — $87,200 less than Naperville, IL's $482,200. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Naperville, IL as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Naperville, IL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Naperville, IL has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Naperville, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 59/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Naperville, IL's 11/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 7/10 and Naperville, IL rates 6.6/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Naperville, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $395K ✓ Lower price | $482K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $84K | $144K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 59/100 ✓ More walkable | 11/100 |
| Transit Score | 52/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 18 min ✓ Shorter commute | 49 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.6/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers | FamiliesCommuters to ChicagoProfessionals with high salaries |
Bottom line
If budget is a significant concern, Chicago's North Center might be a better fit due to slightly lower median home prices and shorter commutes. However, for families seeking a safer, quieter, and more suburban environment with excellent schools, Naperville is the better choice. Ultimately, North Center suits those valuing proximity, livability, and a lively neighborhood, while Naperville caters to those prioritizing family-friendly living and a more stable atmosphere.
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