Lost (Chicago, Evanston, Champaign: college, diverse, nightlife)

[CourtneyR]

Hi!
I am thinking about moving up to Champaign...but I have one huge problem.
The only things that I have heard about the town, is that is sucks!
I have heard lots of wonderful things about Evanston. I am lucky enough to be able to choose...Champaign or Evanston.
I want a place that is safe, has a nightlife, diverse, and offers lots to do.
If you have any opinions about the two towns, I would like to hear about it.
Thanks

[cobolt]

What do your funds look like? I'd choose Evanston over Champaign if you can afford it.

[NYrules]

Talk about two opposite ends of the spectrum! LOL!

[breer23]

I'd agree with cobolt - if you can afford it, go with Evanston. It sits right on the cusp of the north side of Chicago when you see it on a map, but in reality, it's indistinguishable from the city.

Champaign, while being a nice area with more of a small-town feel, does somewhat revolve around the school. And if you're looking for big city life, you won't find it (this coming from a fan of the bar scene at UIUC). You will see lots of blue & orange, though.

The other thing to consider, though, is what the move is for? If you're going to start college (NWU vs. UIUC) you need to take that into consideration too. UIUC & NWU both have their strengths & weaknesses.

[Avengerfire]

Originally Posted by breer23

I'd agree with cobolt - if you can afford it, go with Evanston. It sits right on the cusp of the north side of Chicago when you see it on a map, but in reality, it's indistinguishable from the city.

Champaign, while being a nice area with more of a small-town feel, does somewhat revolve around the school. And if you're looking for big city life, you won't find it (this coming from a fan of the bar scene at UIUC). You will see lots of blue & orange, though.

The other thing to consider, though, is what the move is for? If you're going to start college (NWU vs. UIUC) you need to take that into consideration too. UIUC & NWU both have their strengths & weaknesses.

Evanston is not indistinguishable from the city. It is more like the city than most burbs but it is still far different.