Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Evanston, IL
Chicago, IL vs Evanston, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL while Evanston, IL is in Evanston, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Chicago, IL is the more affordable option at $268,500 median — $288,700 less than Evanston, IL's $557,200. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Evanston, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Evanston, IL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. Evanston, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Evanston, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 66/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Evanston, IL's 20/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 7.1/10 and Evanston, IL rates 7/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Evanston, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $269K ✓ Lower price | $557K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $56K | $89K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 66/100 ✓ More walkable | 20/100 |
| Transit Score | 64/100 ✓ Better transit | 46/100 |
| Bike Score | 74/100 ✓ More bikeable | 31/100 |
| Commute | 22 min ✓ Shorter commute | 28 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 7/10 |
| Best for | StudentsFamilies on a budgetRemote workers needing a cheap commute | FamiliesCollege StudentsCommuters |
Bottom line
For a student on a budget or a remote worker seeking affordability, Chicago's 60626 neighborhood offers a better value due to lower housing prices and a slightly shorter commute. However, if you prioritize higher-end amenities and don't mind a higher cost of living, Evanston may be a better fit. Families who value good schools and walkability should consider 60626 over Evanston, despite its higher crime rate.
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