← Best suburbs near Chicago

Carol Stream vs Wheaton

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

School rating
8/10
9/10
Commute to Chicago
79 min
62 min
Median home price
$369K
$488K
Annual property tax
$10K
$10K
Walk score
32
60
Density
suburban
suburban

Summary: Wheaton leads in 3 of 6 metrics. It edges out on school rating, commute to chicago, walk score. The best choice depends on your family's priorities.

Character & vibe

Carol Stream

Carol Stream has Metra Union Pacific West access, good Glenbard schools, and competitively priced homes relative to its neighbors.

familycommunity

Wheaton

Wheaton Warrenville South and North HS are exceptional. Wheaton College, a charming downtown, and a deeply community-oriented character. DuPage County's most well-established and family-friendly suburb.

communityquiet

Who should pick which?

Pick Carol Stream if you...

  • ·Need to keep your home budget in check
  • ·Want lower annual property taxes

Pick Wheaton if you...

  • ·Prioritize top-rated schools above all else
  • ·Want the shortest commute to Chicago
  • ·Value walkability and a pedestrian-friendly downtown

Still deciding?

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

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