Waukegan, IL
Updated April 30, 2026 · Would You Live There?
Think twice
Verdict
$151K
Median Price
9/100
Walk Score
6/10
Schools
56 min
to Chicago Loop
Score Breakdown
Our Take
Waukegan is cheap compared to Chicago, but its lack of walkability, minimal transit and high crime rates make it a risky place to settle. It might work if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a car for everything.
Map
The Good
- ✓Median home price ($150,700) is well below the Chicago average
- ✓Large number of schools (75) gives options for families
- ✓Strong rental market with 13,731 renter-occupied units
- ✓Median income ($58,843) is close to median home value, making affordability realistic
Real Talk
- !High violent crime risk – data suggests serious incidents in the area
- !Walk score of 9 means almost all errands require a car
- !Transit score of 22 means you’ll barely get public transport – think Metra only
- !Property crime is likely high in an industrial suburb
- !Commute to downtown Chicago takes over an hour (56 minutes) and can be unreliable
- $Higher property taxes than the state average
- $Older housing stock may need costly maintenance
- $Utility bills can be high in cold winters
Best For
Risk Snapshot
Crime & Safety
Waukegan, IL
Safety grade
149% higher than the national average
97% higher than the national average
Verify with real-time data
Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.
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From Residents
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