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, Naperville, IL is the more affordable option at $482,200 median — $44,400 less than Chicago, IL's $526,600. 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 92/100 (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 7/10 and Naperville, IL rates 6.6/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Naperville, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $527K | $482K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $105K | $144K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 92/100 ✓ More walkable | 11/100 |
| Transit Score | 66/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 11 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 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.6/10 |
| Best for | Young ProfessionalsStudentsTransit Riders | FamiliesCommuters to ChicagoProfessionals with high salaries |
Bottom line
If prioritizing a desirable urban lifestyle, proximity to Chicago, and public transit options, Chicago is worth considering. If instead, you're a family with young children, prioritize highly rated schools, and accept living outside the city center, Naperville is the stronger choice. Ultimately, Naperville offers more stability, but Chicago provides a more dynamic, affordable, and livable city experience.
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