2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, SC vs Waukegan, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Waukegan older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in Waukegan is 6.0 years older than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in Waukegan or Columbia?
- Waukegan housing costs are 10.9% less expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Waukegan or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of Waukegan is 11.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Columbia.

Things to do in Columbia?
Columbia, South Carolina is the state's vibrant capital city. Nestled in the Midlands area of the state, it offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From its popular Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to its nearby lakes and rivers, there are plenty of outdoor activities available to explore. Inside the city limits, you can find museums, a bustling downtown area with restaurants and shops, great schools and universities, and more. With its colorful history and unique culture, Columbia is sure to offer something for everyone.

Things to do in Waukegan?
Waukegan, Illinois sits on Lake Michigan’s banks boasting 30 miles worth of sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing or playing beach volleyball along with other activities such as biking trails around Bowen Park or fly fishing in Mill Creek.

 Columbia, SCWaukegan, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,751329,725,481
 Median Income$48,791  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$204,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.18  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Columbia    50 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I love living in Columbia! I recently graduated from USC and plan to stay. I read the reviews posted here and it shows that like many cities, your experience will depend  More

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Loved living in Columbia, SC prior to my job transfer. It's the perfect size - plenty to do, but still a laid back place. People are extremely friendly, there are  More

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Columbia is such a unique and underrated place. It has a lot of character and history, and good nature trails. Everything feels accessible (by car) and you can get from  More

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Reviews for Waukegan    3 Reviews

Great people, beautifully diverse. All live and work together to provide the best for all residents. Lake County College is completing a 40 million dollar building  More

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Over 12 years ago

We're looking for a moderate climate. Waukegan is on Lake Michigan and could have a dynamic vibrant downtown but it doesn't. Great master plan if somehow Waukegan can  More

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Over 17 years ago

I have been living in north east waukegan for 12 years and I am excited by the recent surge of growth in the downtown area. Thanks to the Genesee theater, there are  More

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