← Best suburbs near Chicago

Batavia vs St. Charles

Two popular IL suburbs of Chicago, side by side. Here's how they compare on the metrics that matter most to families.

School rating
9/10
9/10
Commute to Chicago
92 min
92 min
Median home price
$445K
$390K
Annual property tax
$11K
$9K
Walk score
40
45
Density
suburban
suburban

Summary: St. Charles leads in 3 of 6 metrics. It edges out on median home price, annual property tax, walk score. The best choice depends on your family's priorities.

Character & vibe

Batavia

Fermilab is the defining institution. Batavia has a scientific community, excellent schools, Fox River recreation, and a historic downtown. Top-ranked Batavia Community USD at more affordable prices than Geneva or St. Charles.

historiccommunityfamily

St. Charles

Fox River gem with a beautiful downtown, excellent schools, and strong community events. The St. Charles Community USD consistently earns top rankings. Fox River bike trails and a charming historic downtown make this one of Illinois's most livable suburbs.

historicfamilywaterfront

Who should pick which?

Pick Batavia if you...

  • ·Drawn to the historic character

Pick St. Charles if you...

  • ·Need to keep your home budget in check
  • ·Value walkability and a pedestrian-friendly downtown
  • ·Want lower annual property taxes

Still deciding?

Burbia scores both Batavia and St. Charles — and every other town in the Chicago Area — based on your specific commute, budget, and priorities. Not a generic list.

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