$278,696Average Value$190Average Price per Sq Ft17Homes For Sale
Waukegan transforming
Waukegan sits between Chicago and Milwaukee along Lake Michigan and has over 89,000 residents. Starting in the mid-19th century, it became an industrial hub and stayed that way for over 100 years. During its industrial prime, Waukegan Harbor was busy with ships bringing in goods. Today, that industrial past is gone, and Waukegan is beginning to redefine itself. New mixed-use developments, including neighborhoods by the water and recreational space, are replacing the smokestacks on the lakefront. “The downtown area has improved over the past few years with a focus on art and making it more pedestrian-friendly,” says Niya Simone, public relations specialist for the City of Waukegan. “I live downtown, and I walk everywhere I need to go. It’s better for my mental health, and it’s better than sitting in traffic.”
Waukegan Harbor is minutes away from scenic lake views of the city of Waukegan.
Waukegan sits along Lake Michigan between Chicago and Milwaukee, with 89,000 residents.
Enjoy a day in the sun at Waukegan Municipal Beach, located on the waters of Lake Michigan.
Waukegan residents love to take walks around the pond at Bevier Park, near Lake Michigan.
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Downtown Waukegan focuses on the arts
Part of the renewed vibrancy in downtown Waukegan has been focused on the arts. In addition to murals on the sides of buildings, the third Saturday of every month highlights galleries and studios in the Arts & Entertainment District, located in the Genesee and Washington Streets area. At the monthly ArtWauk, galleries draw in visitors with complimentary refreshments and captivating art pieces. There are also companion events around special holidays, like ZombieWauk, an October version of the event celebrating the horror genre, and HolidayWauk in December. The Genesee Theater opened almost 100 years ago but was closed and left vacant for 15 years before the City of Waukegan purchased and renovated it. The reopening in 2004 led to more Broadway performances, concerts and movies. Next door to that is the much smaller, non-profit Three Brothers Theatre, showcasing local talent.
The historical Genesee Theatre hosts concerts, shows, events, and weddings in Waukegan.
Grab a quick bite to eat at the food trucks in Downtown Waukegan.
Art Park in downtown Waukegan, which was created in 1997, is maintained by local artists.
Target provides Waukegan residents with everyday items and great deals.
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Waukegan recreation by the water or on land
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Waukegan Municipal Beach is filled with people soaking up the sun and swimming in Lake Michigan. The beach is a mile long, and activities include sand volleyball, soccer and picnicking. There have even been some weddings that have been held in the sand. There’s free parking for locals with evidence of a city sticker. For those who like recreation away from the water, the Waukegan Park District manages about 35 parks and over 700 acres of land designed for recreation. Bowen Park is one of the largest on the city's north side and has a garden, modern playground equipment, a skate park and a splash pad. Aside from typical park amenities, the Jack Benny Center for the Arts, named after the comedian who grew up in Waukegan, is where art classes and programs are taught, and there are periodic performances by the Bowen Park Theatre for Youth. The Waukegan History Museum was in Bowen Park for many years but is moving to the renovated Carnegie Library downtown. It’s scheduled to open in late 2024. Other parks in the city have opportunities for pickleball, fitness exercise stations along walking paths and even a BMX track.
Walk the shores of Lake Michigan at Illinois Beach State Park, a short drive from Waukegan.
People from all over the Waukegan area enjoy a day at the Waukegan Municipal Beach.
Bowen Park in Waukegan is a perfect place to take your dog for a romp.
The entrance sign to Bowen Park in Waukegan includes beautiful flowers.
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The first enclosed shopping mall in Lake County
Belvidere Discount Mall opened in 1965 as the first enclosed shopping center in Lake County. Except for The Home Depot, all tenants are locally-owned businesses, with 35 stores occupying the space. The mall has survived despite the opening of the much larger Gurnee Mills Mall, 7 miles west, in 1991. Gurnee Mills attracts 20 million visitors each year and has nearly 200 stores. Over the past few years, many locally owned restaurants have opened downtown, and more options are available on major roads like Washington Street and Grand Avenue. Mom-and-pop grocery stores populate downtown, while Jewel-Osco, Aldi and Tony’s Fresh Market are further north and west.
Waukegan families can shop at chain stores like Aldi.
Walmart Supercenter in Fountain Square is one of the many retail options for residents.
Gurnee Mills, a quick drive from Gurnee, has great stores like Marshalls and Home Goods.
Waukegan residents can get all their home improvement needs from the local Home Depot.
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Waukegan High School has two campuses
Public school students attend classes in the Waukegan Public School District 60, with 15 elementary schools, five middle schools and one high school. The district is rated a C-minus overall on Niche and serves nearly 14,000 students. Waukegan High School students are housed on two campuses. The Brookside campus serves ninth and tenth graders, while juniors and seniors attend the Washington campus. Private school options within the city include Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep, a private Catholic school rated a B. Most Blessed Trinity Academy provides a Catholic school education for K-8 students.
Waukegan High School is part of Waukegan Public School District 60.
Most Blessed Trinity Academy is a private school serving families of Waukegan.
Niche gives Waukegan Public School District 60 a C-minus rating.
The student population of Edith M Smith Middle School in Waukegan is just above 500.
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Older houses in Waukegan
Except for a few pockets of newer-style houses, most homes are from the early to mid-20th century in Waukegan in neighborhoods lined out in grid layouts. The median home price in Waukegan is $225,000, which is about $125,000 lower than the median in nearby Chicago. Condos in the northwest part of town in the Hickory Hills Subdivision are priced from $90,000 to $200,000. Townhouses throughout the city have prices from $110,000 to $320,000.
The Waukegan Police Department indicates that in 2023, the most recent year-end results available, instances of some violent crimes increased from 2022. Robbery and auto theft also increased.
Waukegan homes styles include ranch, split-level, and cottage.
Waukegan residential streets include mid-century, ranch, and cottage style homes.
Modest, affordable, single story homes are found throughout Waukegan.
Waukegan home styles include cottage and mid century modern.
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Superfund sites in Waukegan
The Environmental Protection Agency manages five Superfund sites in Waukegan, including three in the downtown area at the site of old industrial buildings near the lake. Concerns from the five sites include the presence of toxic emissions, wastewater sludge, asbestos and polluted runoff from an old landfill in the northwest part of the city.
Metra, Pace and the Waukegan National Airport
Since Waukegan is located about 10 miles south of the Wisconsin line, some people work in Wisconsin. Commuters can use the Metra commuter rail to access downtown Chicago or Kenosha. Pace buses lift passengers around Waukegan and the surrounding area. O’Hare International Airport is 33 miles south, while Waukegan National Airport is in the city and is a “reliever airport” for O’Hare. Other than that, it’s a general aviation facility that handles private, corporate, business and governmental aircraft.
Written By
Jeff Stapleton
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Mike Dunleavy
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Waukegan, IL sell after 19 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Waukegan, IL over the last 12 months is $241,750, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully renovated home in the Regency Woods neighborhood of Libertyville, offering privacy, scenic water views, and thoughtful modern updates throughout. Positioned on a premium lot, the property features tranquil ponds, peaceful wetlands, and wooded views, creating a serene setting in a convenient location. As you step inside, you are greeted by soaring cathedral ceilings and
Stunning oversized Ranch in highly sought after Douglas Nursery Neighborhood. This mid-century brick home features 3 large well appointed Bedrooms including a primary with hip retro en suite bath. Classic galley kitchen with upgraded appliances. Main floor also features wood burning fireplace, newer laminate flooring, laundry room and additional bath. Fully finished basement featuring a large
Welcome to this spacious ranch-style home designed for both comfort and functionality, featuring 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms with a layout that truly fits today's lifestyle. Step into a bright open-concept living and dining area that creates the perfect space to gather, entertain, and make everyday moments feel special. The finished basement with an emergency egress window adds valuable extra
Set on a private 1.28-acre lot surrounded by towering oaks, this neo-French masterpiece is exquisitely finished and perfectly conceived, offering refined living and effortless entertaining at every turn. Inside, a kitchen that feels like a European escape awaits, featuring hand-crafted walnut cabinetry, French limestone counters and flooring, dual SubZero refrigerators, a Miele dishwasher, and a
Charming home with so much to offer! Desirable architectural details throughout. See the hardwood floors, arched doorways, crown molding, & built-in shelving! Find yourself entertaining in the living room with a brick fireplace. Quaint dining room leads to a bright sunroom, which allows for enjoying time overlooking your private & fully fenced backyard. The main bedroom with its own terrace is
Welcome Home to this gorgeous, newly updated ranch home that perfectly blends modern style with everyday comfort! Offering 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and an abundance of thoughtful upgrades throughout, this home is truly move-in ready and designed for today's lifestyle. Step inside and you are immediately greeted by beautiful luxury vinyl flooring that flows seamlessly throughout the main
Experience the pinnacle of refined suburban living in this magnificent Orren Pickell Building Group all-brick estate, perfectly situated on a lush 1.07-acre lot in Libertyville's prestigious Nickels and Dimes Farm community. Welcome to 5443 Belmont Court, an architectural masterpiece offering over 5,000 square feet of finished luxury across three levels of living space. This brick home with wood
You will fall in love with this BEACH PARK home! Character and charm throughout balance a country vibe with a clean contemporary finish in this inviting home. Spacious living areas include a light, bright living room, and a large family room. Loaded with cabinets, the kitchen offers abundant storage and flows naturally into the dining area-ideal for everyday meals and memorable entertaining.
Welcome to this bright and spacious 4-bedroom, 3.1-bath home in the highly desirable Midlane Club community, tucked away on a private lot overlooking the 9th fairway. Enjoy maintenance-free living with lawn care, including in-ground sprinklers, and snow removal included. Open concept layout with kitchen features including granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, and a
Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom home where comfort meets character - and the possibilities are truly yours to write. Whether you're stepping into homeownership for the first time, looking to simplify your lifestyle, or adding a smart investment to your portfolio, this home checks all the right boxes. Step inside and feel the warmth this home has to offer, then head out back to a backyard made
Welcome to this beautifully renovated home in the Regency Woods neighborhood of Libertyville, offering privacy, scenic water views, and thoughtful modern updates throughout. Positioned on a premium lot, the property features tranquil ponds, peaceful wetlands, and wooded views, creating a serene setting in a convenient location. As you step inside, you are greeted by soaring cathedral ceilings and
This 1.114-acre wooded residential site in Waukegan consists of two parcels under a single PIN and is an ideal opportunity for builders and developers. The property previously featured two residential homes which have since been removed, leaving a cleared footprint ready for new construction. Due to the prior residential use, access to gas and electric is presumed, and a private well and septic
Architecturally interesting brick & stone tudor style home in North East Waukegan. Full basement, fireplace, 2+ car garage. Home needs total renovation and priced accordingly. Electric is currently shut off(bring a flashlight:)! Home is currently assessed at $240,666 and taxes should be reduced upon appeal with lower sale price. Please discuss with the tax assessor, if desired. PLEASE NOTE THAT
Lot for sale. Build that dream home you always wanted. Residential zoned, Garage on site. Please have buyers do their due diligence, contact the City of Waukegan Building & Zoning for building requirements. Close proximity to shopping and restaurants. Utilities on site.
Welcome to Reserve at Eagle Ridge Apartment Homes! Our community offers spacious studio, one and two-bedroom apartments for rent in Waukegan. When you tour one of our many floor plans, you will see that we have designed our apartments with your comfort in mind. Enjoy a private patio/balcony, walk-in closets, and other great amenities. Select homes are even equipped with in-home laundry!
Spacious renovated 2-bedroom apartment available with all utilities included. The unit features new flooring, fresh paint, and has been well maintained throughout. Includes 1 parking space and extra storage as well with in-building laundry room. Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, and main roads for an easy commute. Clean, updated, and all-inclusive, great option if you're looking
Welcome to Kings Court Apartments, where quality and comfort meet. Enjoy such amenities as elevators, double entry doors with intercom access foyer, a heated outdoor pool, a sundeck, and a barbecue area, ample guest parking, and 24-hour emergency maintenance. Our management will meet your needs in a friendly and efficient manner. Let Kings Court Apartments be your new home. Income guidelines
Huge 2 bed/1 bath unit available. Private quiet residence above commercial space, oversized rooms and extra storage space. In unit washer and dryer, private deck with grill, 2 surface parking spaces. 2nd floor unit, only stair access. Call broker Tim Hart for additional information.
Welcome home to Harbor Lake Apartments in Waukegan, IL! We have Studio, 1, and 2 bedroom apartments. Take a stroll on the winding path that surrounds our private lake, unwind by the pool, or relax in the comfort of your generous apartment home. We are the home for you if you are in the mood for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Harbor Lake Apartments is also close to major roads, public
Rarely available Executive RENTAL in Daybreak Farm. Unfortunately, tenants plans have changed. . Stunning all brick 3800 sq ft positioned on a quiet Cul de sac, Gorgeous tall trees with meadow present an impressive setting. Impeccably maintained, newly painted and refreshed gorgeous hardwood flooring and new carpet. Terrific Open Floor Plan. Incredible Sunlight Windows flank each room allowing
Diane Miller@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Located on 13 acres of beautiful grounds in Waukegan, IL, our community offers a variety of 1 & 2-bedroom apartments with floor plan options that are sure to meet your needs. In addition to great in-home and community amenities, our apartment community is conveniently located in Waukegan, IL. Living at Fox Crest Apartments gives you easy access to local shops, schools, and restaurants.
Enjoy the comfort of this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1-bath unit located in a quiet Waukegan neighborhood close to the downtown area, near restaurants and theater. This home features tons of windows, hardwood flooring, updated kitchen with brand-new appliances, 1 space garage parking. Spacious bedrooms with ample closet space, 1 full bath updated, laundry in the basement for your convenience.
ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT AVAILABLE IN ONAN SUITES Suites - 55+ LIVING. UNIT IS UPDATED WITH WOOD LAMINATED FLOOR. KITCHEN INCLUDES REFRIGERATOR, STOVE AND MICROWAVE. AMENITIES IN THE BUILDING INCLUDES PARTY ROOM, EXERCISE ROOM, INDOOR POOL, LOBBY WITH POOL TABLE AND PIANO, ELEVATOR AND COIN LAUNDRY. STORAGE IN THE BASEMENT INCLUDED IN THE RENT. GARAGE PARKING AVAILABLE IN UNDERGROUND GARAGE FOR $90
Come and take a walk through meandering pathways and be surrounded by the beautiful, lush landscaping that adorns Northgate Apartments. With its scenic atmosphere and short distance to major highways, local schools, restaurants and entertainment attractions, Northgate Apartments in North Waukegan is the ideal place to call home!Our residents are offered highly desirable first-class amenities!
ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT AVAILABLE IN ONAN SUITES Suites - 55+ LIVING. UNIT IS UPDATED WITH WOOD LAMINATED FLOOR. KITCHEN INCLUDES REFRIGERATOR, STOVE AND MICROWAVE. AMENITIES IN THE BUILDING INCLUDES PARTY ROOM, EXERCISE ROOM, INDOOR POOL, LOBBY WITH POOL TABLE AND PIANO, ELEVATOR AND COIN LAUNDRY. STORAGE IN THE BASEMENT INCLUDED IN THE RENT. GARAGE PARKING AVAILABLE IN UNDERGROUND GARAGE FOR $90
Southwest Waukegan is where forest preserves and banks of the Des Plaines River are interwoven with interstates and major thoroughfares, making for a classic exurb experience. Downtown Waukegan is about 5 miles away, offering the most populous city in Lake County. But even though theaters, lakefront activities and cocktail bars are a straight shot down Washington Street, most homebuyers choose Southwest Waukegan for its relative peace and quiet. “This has become a hot area to invest in,” says Realtor Wendy Lee of EXIT Realty, who has decades of experience in the Chicago market. “You’re getting that suburban lifestyle, but it can be more affordable compared to similar homes you’ll find in Libertyville, which is just south of there.”<br><br>Housing tends to be modern, even though the styles can vary. The most common styles seen are multistory brick and colonial homes from the 90s, with prices ranging from the mid $700,000s to upper $800,000s. Still, there are a few single-story ranchers in the south near North Jensen Lane. Homes in the western region of the neighborhood tend to feature lots of about one acre, while smaller lots can be found in the neighborhood’s eastern suburbs. Southwest Waukegan also contains townhouse complexes. Homebuyers will notice a lushness to the streetscapes, with many lawns populated by several tall mature trees. Houses tend to not be Houses tend to not be lined up close together, so there is a spaciousness to the views across lawns. Cul-de-sacs, long driveways and curving residential streets with gentle names like Daybreak Drive are the norm. Sidewalks aren’t always present, but streets are evenly paved and community lanterns can dot the way. <br><br>Students are served by the highly ranked Woodland School District 50, and schools here can feature a short span of grades. For example, Woodland Elementary covers grades 1 to 3, and earns an A from Niche. Woodland Intermediate covers 3rd through 5th grade, and earns an A-minus. Woodland Middle earns the same, covering grades 6 through 8. Warren Township High presents a modernist face, and earns an A. Even this school is split across two campuses, one for freshmen and sophomores, the other for juniors and seniors. The school’s most recent addition is a three-story science wing, recognizable by bold blue tiles.<br><br>Within the neighborhood, River Road and O’Plaine Road are the main local throughfares, and these run north-south. But regional corridors run through here, making Southwest Waukegan an attractive place for commuters. First, there’s Interstate 90, which runs through the center of the neighborhood. Route 21, also known as Milwaukee Avenue, courses along the west end in parallel to the Des Plaines River. Meanwhile, Routes 41 and 43 run along the east end. All of these are intersected by Route 120, the major east-west corridor that caps the neighborhood. An interchange is situated in the northeast corner, conveniently located near a retail cluster. <br><br>The Fountain Square of Waukegan shopping district in the northeastern corner of the neighborhood offers a multitude of shopping and dining options. Cuisine tends to lean towards elevated comfort food. For example, Big Ed’s BBQ & Bar features house-made fried pickles, mac and cheese and a variety of choices from the pit, such as baby back ribs and beef brisket. Just down the road at Anastasia’s Restaurant & Sports Lounge, locals can enjoy burgers, sandwiches and pizza while sipping draft beers and enjoying the game. The shopping district also features chain restaurants such as Buffalo Wild Wings, Chili’s and Denny’s. Groceries can be picked up at Aldi or the Walmart Supercenter. Esporta Fitness off Lakehurst Road provides members with fitness classes, personal training options and a selection of weight and cardio equipment. For entertainment, locals can stop by Bowlero Waukegan to hit the bowling lanes, play arcade games and enjoy beers, cocktails and snacks. <br><br>Residents can catch some fresh air in one of the area’s neighborhood parks. Arbor Park features playgrounds, a basketball court and a paved walking trail through the trees. Heading south from here, Serenity Park offers a sand volleyball court, a tennis court and a walking path encircling the park’s 5 acres. The southwestern corner of the neighborhood, just east of the Des Plaines River, is home to Independence Grove Forest Preserve, where lakes, woodlands and sports facilities offer year-round enjoyment. Fishing boats, canoes and kayaks can be rented from the main marina and taken out on the central lake or to North Bay for a day of fishing or drifting in the open water. Fishers can also utilize the preserve's two fishing piers. For some exercise, locals have access to over 7 miles of walking trails stretching across the preserve, winding around the area's lakes and through the woods in the north to connect with the Des Plaines River Trail. Visitors also enjoy Independence Grove's sandy beach, outdoor volleyball court and playground.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
