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 $353,200 median — $129,000 less than Naperville, IL's $482,200. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — 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 Moderate 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 93/100 (exceptionally 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 | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $353K ✓ Lower price | $482K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $69K | $144K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 93/100 ✓ More walkable | 11/100 |
| Transit Score | 64/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 72/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 17 min ✓ Shorter commute | 49 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | 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 | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsCommuters | FamiliesCommuters to ChicagoProfessionals with high salaries |
Bottom line
For young professionals, students, or families who value walkability and don't mind a mix of housing types, Lincoln Square might be the better choice given its more livable wages and relatively shorter commute to Chicago. On the other hand, Naperville is a safer, more stable option for families with higher salaries, professionals, and retirees who prioritize top-rated schools and don't mind sacrificing walkability and affordability for these perks.
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