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

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Highlights
Are people in Waukegan older or younger than people in Wilmette?
- The Median Age in Waukegan is 11.4 years younger than in Wilmette.

Are housing costs cheaper in Waukegan or Wilmette?
- Waukegan housing costs are 75.5% less expensive than Wilmette housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Waukegan or Wilmette?
- The average commute for residents of Waukegan is 7.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Wilmette.

Things to do in Wilmette?
Wilmette, IL is a vibrant community located just north of downtown Chicago. With an estimated population of 27,000 people, Wilmette offers something special for everyone. From outdoor activities like jogging the lakefront and picnicking at Gillson Park to shopping and dining at Plaza del lago, there’s always something to explore and enjoy in this lively town. Wilmette is also home to several higher education institutions such as Northwestern University and Loyola University Chicago which provide excellent academic opportunities for students of all ages. With its convenient location near Lake Michigan and progressive cultural offerings, Wilmette is the perfect destination for work or play no matter what you’re looking for!

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.

 Wilmette, ILWaukegan, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,751329,725,481
 Median Income$173,967  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$743,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time33.46  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Wilmette    4 Reviews

Top notch teachers. Involved parents. Motivated students. Great public schools from elementary through high school.  More

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Over 13 years ago

It's a small city close to the lake and close to Chicago. One of the biggest advantages is its schools. Most of the elementary schools have a great school rating of 9  More

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Over 16 years ago

Wilmette is one of the close-in suburbs on Chicago's North Shore. Wilmette and next-door Evanston have their own parks, dining and recreation. And it's a short drive or  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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