Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Springfield, IL
Chicago, IL vs Springfield, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL while Springfield, IL is in Springfield, IL — both in the same state. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Springfield, 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 High property crime. Springfield, IL has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Springfield, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 66/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Springfield, IL's 61/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 7.1/10 and Springfield, IL rates 6.6/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Springfield, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $269K | N/A |
| Median Rent | $1K | $604 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $56K ✓ Higher income | $32K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 66/100 ✓ More walkable | 61/100 |
| Transit Score | 64/100 | 67/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 74/100 ✓ More bikeable | 62/100 |
| Commute | 22 min ✓ Shorter commute | 235 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | High | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.6/10 |
| Best for | StudentsFamilies on a budgetRemote workers needing a cheap commute | Budget rentersCollege studentsShort‑term commuters |
Bottom line
If budget is your top priority, Springfields 62701 might fit your needs due to its very low home prices and high rental affordability. However, if you're willing to pay a premium, Chicago's 60626 area is more suitable for families and students who value slightly higher safety and quality of life. Overall, neither neighborhood is a top choice by our standards.
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