2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Waukegan, IL vs Elgin, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Elgin older or younger than people in Waukegan?
- The Median Age in Elgin is 0.8 years older than in Waukegan.

Are housing costs cheaper in Elgin or Waukegan?
- Elgin housing costs are 45.3% more expensive than Waukegan housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Elgin or Waukegan?
- The average commute for residents of Elgin is 2.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Waukegan.

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.

Things to do in Elgin?
Elgin, Illinois is a delightful city located in the northwest suburbs of the Chicago metropolitan area. Its many attractions make it an ideal place to live or visit. Visitors can explore local history and culture at the Elgin History Museum, shop downtown boutiques and galleries, and enjoy delicious cuisine in its many restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of nearby parks and nature trails, while sports fans can cheer on their favorite teams at sporting events held Downtown Elgin. With its diverse offerings and friendly atmosphere, Elgin is a great destination for all ages – come see for yourself!

 Waukegan, ILElgin, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock114,156329,725,481
 Median Income$58,844  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3538.4
 Avg. Home Price$181,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.17  Unlock26.38
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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Reviews for Elgin    9 Reviews

When I first moved to Elgin 2 years ago I did not like it. I lived in a mobile home park near the river and highway 90 in a senior community that over prices it's lot  More

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Hi, as a way of updating the post for Elgin and providing a rebuttal for some of the negative reviews, I've decided to post on this board. I've lived in Elgin since  More

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Over 15 years ago

I have lived in Elgin my whole life and it is very sad to read these comments about my town.... I'm a senior at South Elgin High School and I will be graduating this  More

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