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 $268,500 median — $213,700 less than Naperville, IL's $482,200. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — 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 High 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 66/100 (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 7.1/10 and Naperville, IL rates 6.6/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Naperville, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $269K ✓ Lower price | $482K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $56K | $144K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 66/100 ✓ More walkable | 11/100 |
| Transit Score | 64/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 74/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 22 min ✓ Shorter commute | 49 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.6/10 |
| Best for | StudentsFamilies on a budgetRemote workers needing a cheap commute | FamiliesCommuters to ChicagoProfessionals with high salaries |
Bottom line
For those on a budget seeking walkable access to downtown Chicago and high-rated schools, 60626 might be a reasonable choice. However, those prioritizing a safe, family-friendly environment with top-rated schools and a low crime rate, but are willing to trade off high costs and lengthy commutes, may find Naperville a more suitable fit. Ultimately, it's worth weighing the pros and cons of each based on individual priorities.
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