2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Austin, TX vs Lake Forest, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Lake Forest older or younger than people in Austin?
- The Median Age in Lake Forest is 12.5 years older than in Austin.

Are housing costs cheaper in Lake Forest or Austin?
- Lake Forest housing costs are 55.6% more expensive than Austin housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Lake Forest or Austin?
- The average commute for residents of Lake Forest is 7.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Austin.

Things to do in Austin?
Austin, Texas is a vibrant city known for its eclectic culture, delicious food, and outdoor activities. Home to world renowned music venues like the Moody Theater and the Cactus Café, visitors can explore a wide range of genres such as country, rock and roll, blues, jazz, funk and more. The city also offers a plethora of unique restaurants featuring everything from traditional Tex-Mex dishes to innovative gastronomy creations. Nature lovers will find plenty to do with Austin's network of trails perfect for hiking and biking. With its creative spirit and endless opportunities to explore - Austin is a great place for any traveler looking for an unforgettable adventure!

Things to do in Lake Forest?
Lake Forest, Illinois is a vibrant city located in Lake County. With its many shops and restaurants, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking an enjoyable night out or a fun day of shopping. For outdoor fans, Lake Forest offers beautiful parks and trails, plus beaches along the shore of Lake Michigan. Families looking to move to the area can rest assured that there are multiple schools with outstanding educational programs. Lake Forest has something to offer everyone — whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a great place to live.

 Austin, TXLake Forest, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock19,450329,725,481
 Median Income$78,965  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock46.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$577,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time24.11  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Austin    449 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

Good place to visit.  More

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Austin is too expensive. Let's get that out of the way. Other than that it is a fun city. Ladybird Lake makes the city, imo. The ability to stand up paddle, kayak, walk  More

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The city continues to grow quickly, which a lot of people don't like. I get it, you fall in love with a city, and it's growing so fast that you don't recognize the same  More

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Reviews for Lake Forest    4 Reviews

We relocated cross county to Lake Forest about a year ago due to a job change. We looked at nearby communities, within proximity of the work commute (the office is in  More

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Be prepared for a so called upscale town with entitled, overpaid, snooty people from teenagers who sneer at you to adults who look you up and down, who make demands on a  More

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Over 16 years ago

Long cold winters, short cold springs, hot humid summers, nice  More

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