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

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Highlights
Are people in Sterling older or younger than people in Waukegan?
- The Median Age in Sterling is 8.5 years older than in Waukegan.

Are housing costs cheaper in Sterling or Waukegan?
- Sterling housing costs are 38.7% less expensive than Waukegan housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Sterling or Waukegan?
- The average commute for residents of Sterling is 10.1 minutes shorter 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 Sterling?
Sterling is an incorporated city located in Whiteside County, Illinois offering plenty of attractions such as exploring its multiple trails ideal for biking or jogging plus nearby Rock Falls Rapids Nature Preserve provides amazing views close by. There are also numerous shops and eateries providing unique itemsor delicious cuisine perfectfor anyone looking to have a meal out during their visit here!

 Waukegan, ILSterling, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock14,919329,725,481
 Median Income$58,844  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$181,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.4%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 Sterling    1 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

my child was not veery safe in his manger. many storms, too dangerous, lost kid in storm. a twelve year old tried to sell me nicotine!!!!! <3  More

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