Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Waukegan, IL
Chicago, IL vs Waukegan, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL while Waukegan, IL is in Waukegan, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Waukegan, IL is the more affordable option at $200,000 median — $68,500 less than Chicago, IL's $268,500. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Waukegan, 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. Waukegan, IL has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Waukegan, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 66/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Waukegan, IL's 9/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 7.1/10 and Waukegan, IL rates 6/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Waukegan, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $269K | $200K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $56K | $59K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 66/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 64/100 ✓ Better transit | 22/100 |
| Bike Score | 74/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 22 min ✓ Shorter commute | 56 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 | 6/10 |
| Best for | StudentsFamilies on a budgetRemote workers needing a cheap commute | Budget-conscious familiesFirst-time home buyersSuburban commuters |
Bottom line
If you value walkability and transit options, and can handle the higher crime rates, 60626 in Chicago might work for you - particularly if you're a student or family on a budget. However, if your priority is an extremely low cost of living and you don't mind limited access to amenities and services, Waukegan could be a more affordable option, at least initially.
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