I'm a 25 year old white male that just bought in the downtown area of waukegan due to the proximity to chicago and quick access to train and highway. I'm moving there from grayslake, my dollar goes very far in waukegan. the town is showing amazing motivation in urban revitilization, which is what you need in this market.

Disclaimer, I'm not a realtor, but I am a resident who pays attention to the market.

The market in Waukegan is really a mixed bag from what I've seen. There is a LOT of inventory, however quality may be lacking in that inventory. Houses are inexpensive, and you CAN find a bargain, but you probably won't get a 100% move in ready HGTV show house!

As far as the neighborhoods. Most are safe, there are (as with any town) less desirable places to live. In general, the further north of Grand you can go, the better. The historic district is roughly a .5 to 1 mile area around the corners of Grand and Sheridan. Sheridan road going North is very nice, filled with old mansions. Newer construction seems to be happening on the North and West sides of the town.

I like Waukegan because of the proximity to the lake and its easy transportation routes to the city (Chicago and Milwaukee are about 1.5 hrs either way).