Let the numbers do the talking.
Waukegan, IL vs Wicker Park, IL
| Category | Waukegan, IL | Wicker Park, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $151K ✓ Lower price | $617K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $59K | $119K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 9/100 | 78/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 22/100 | 46/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 56 min | 10 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6/10 | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Budget-conscious familiesFirst-time home buyersSuburban commuters | young professionalscreative typesstudents |
Bottom line
If you're on a tight budget and don't mind a car-heavy lifestyle, Waukegan might be a cheap option, but it comes with significant drawbacks. However, if you value the convenience of a walkable downtown and short commutes to the city, Wicker Park offers a more desirable lifestyle, but at a much steeper cost. Ultimately, if you can afford it, Wicker Park is a more desirable choice for young professionals and couples seeking a vibrant urban experience, while Waukegan may be more fitting for budget-conscious families or commuters to Chicago.
Share this comparison