Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL 60640 vs Chicago, IL 60657
Chicago, IL 60640 vs Chicago, IL 60657: What the data shows
Chicago, IL 60640 and Chicago, IL 60657 are two ZIP codes within Chicago. On home prices, Chicago, IL 60640 is the more affordable option at $353,200 median — $173,400 less than Chicago, IL 60657's $526,600. WYLT rates Chicago, IL 60640 as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Chicago, IL 60657 as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Chicago, IL 60640 has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Chicago, IL 60657 has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL 60640 has Low flood risk and Chicago, IL 60657 has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL 60640 is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL 60640 scores 93/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Chicago, IL 60657's 92/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL 60640 has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL 60640 rates 7.1/10 and Chicago, IL 60657 rates 7/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL 60640 | Chicago, IL 60657 |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $353K ✓ Lower price | $527K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $69K | $105K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 93/100 ✓ More walkable | 92/100 |
| Transit Score | 64/100 | 66/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 72/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 17 min | 11 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 7/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsCommuters | Young ProfessionalsStudentsTransit Riders |
Bottom line
For families, the first Lincoln Square neighborhood is a slightly more affordable option with solid schools, but it's a closer call due to higher crime and cost of living. The second neighborhood is better for young professionals and students, with a stronger job market and dining options, but at a higher cost. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.
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