Everything You Should Know Before Moving to North Chicago, IL
Considering a move to North Chicago, IL? With a diverse population of nearly 30,000 and affordable housing—median home prices around $163,000 and rents near $1,110—North Chicago offers budget-friendly living. Commute times are reasonable at about 24 minutes, and the city features a large federal healthcare center and local college. While crime rates are higher than average, North Chicago’s proximity to Lake Michigan, strong public transportation options, and mix of public schools and colleges make it a practical option for families and students alike.
Demographics - North Chicago, IL
Demographics - North Chicago, IL
North Chicago is home to nearly 30,000 residents, featuring a young median age of 25.6 years and a vibrant, diverse community, with 35% speaking a language other than English at home. The city has a balanced mix of ethnic backgrounds, including significant Black, White, and other minority populations. This diversity makes North Chicago an inclusive place for newcomers seeking a multicultural environment.
Population:
29,841
Density:
3,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
25.6
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
35.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
25.4%
Black:
32.9%
Asian:
2.9%
Others:
38.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in North Chicago, IL?
Living in North Chicago is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $163,000 and average rent around $1,110 per month. The cost of living index is below the national average at 92.7, and essentials like groceries and utilities also remain budget-friendly. This makes the city attractive for both renters and homeowners seeking value in the Chicagoland area.
Median House Value:
$163,000
Gross Rent:
$1,110
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
92.7
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
65.3
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
98.8
Health Care:
101.2
Miscellaneous:
99.6
Crime
Is North Chicago, IL a safe place to live?
North Chicago experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a 1 in 254 chance of being a victim of violent crime and property crime also above national norms. While residents enjoy many amenities, it’s important to stay aware of neighborhood safety and take appropriate precautions. Local law enforcement and community programs strive to improve public safety across the city.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
394
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,110
Crime Index:
2,504
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 254
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in North Chicago, IL year-round?
North Chicago has a classic Midwest climate, featuring cold winters with lows around 17°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The city receives about 36.7 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine roughly 57% of the year. Residents experience four distinct seasons, making it ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $49,001, with about 22% of residents living below the poverty line. Most neighbors have at least a high school education, and the average commute is a manageable 24 minutes. The community is culturally rich, with 35% of residents speaking a language other than English at home.
Median Income:
$24,900
Household Income:
$49,001
Family Income:
$55,400
Per Capita Income:
$17,600
Income Male:
$31,200
Income Female:
$27,300
Poverty Rate:
22.1%
Non English Speakers:
35.0%
Rent:
$1,110
Unemployment Rate:
6.2%
Public Transport Usage:
5.1%
Commute Time:
24.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.7%
Bachelors or More:
14.8%
Education
How are the schools in North Chicago, IL?
North Chicago’s educational landscape includes public schools such as North Chicago Community High School and Aj Katzenmaier Academy, both offering reasonable student-teacher ratios. The city is also home to Rosalind Franklin University, and nearby colleges like the College of Lake County provide higher education opportunities. Families benefit from a mix of public, private, and collegiate options within a short distance.
Public Schools
Name:
North Chicago Community High School
Street:
1717 17th St
Phone:
847-578-7400
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Aj Katzenmaier Academy
Street:
24 Julian St
Phone:
847-689-6330
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of Humility School
Street:
10601 Wadsworth Rd, Beach Park
Phone:
847-746-3722
Students:
340
Colleges
Name:
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
City:
North Chicago
State:
IL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,100
Name:
College of Lake County
City:
Grayslake
State:
IL
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
13,800
Healthcare
North Chicago offers strong healthcare access, anchored by the Lovell Federal Health Care Center, which serves both general and veterans’ needs with emergency services available. The city has a good ratio of physicians to residents and high health insurance coverage at 91%. These resources ensure residents have reliable medical care close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lovell Federal Health Care Center
Address:
3001 Green Bay Rd, North Chicago, IL 60064
Phone:
(224) 610-3714
Type:
General & Veterans Care
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
72.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in North Chicago, IL?
The housing market in North Chicago is accessible, with a median home price of $163,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,110. Homeownership rates are lower than average, with many residents opting to rent, and the market has seen modest price appreciation in the past year. Rental vacancies are moderate, providing options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$163,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,110
Owner Occupied Rate:
38.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.2%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services for North Chicago residents are provided by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, located nearby in Waukegan. Services include licensing, registration, and title transfers, with up-to-date information available on the official website. The convenient location and accessible support make DMV tasks straightforward for locals.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State – Driver Services Facility
Address:
617 S. Green Bay Road, Waukegan, IL 60085
Phone:
1-800-252-8980
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.