Let the numbers do the talking.
Peoria, IL vs Waukegan, IL
| Category | Peoria, IL | Waukegan, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Hard pass | Think twice |
| Median Price | $236K | $151K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $826 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $20K | $59K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 15/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 10/100 | 22/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 197 min | 56 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6/10 |
| Best for | low‑income rentersretireesstudents | Budget-conscious familiesFirst-time home buyersSuburban commuters |
Bottom line
If you're a low-income renter, retiree, or student, Peoria might be a suitable option for extremely affordable living, despite its many drawbacks. However, for anyone considering buying or settling, Waukegan or nearby areas like Chicago would likely offer more safety, amenities, and opportunities. Overall, think twice before moving to Waukegan, but Peoria is a harder pass overall.
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