Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Decatur, IL
Chicago, IL vs Decatur, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL while Decatur, IL is in Decatur, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Decatur, IL is the more affordable option at $119,000 median — $234,200 less than Chicago, IL's $353,200. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Decatur, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Decatur, IL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Decatur, IL has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Decatur, IL has Low flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 93/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Decatur, IL's 8/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 7.1/10 and Decatur, IL rates 6/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Decatur, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $353K | $119K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $850 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $69K ✓ Higher income | $63K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 93/100 ✓ More walkable | 8/100 |
| Transit Score | 64/100 ✓ Better transit | 2/100 |
| Bike Score | 72/100 ✓ More bikeable | 2/100 |
| Commute | 17 min ✓ Shorter commute | 210 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsCommuters | Local workersFamiliesStudents |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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