McHenry, Illinois
City · 10 miles from Crystal Lake · Source: U.S. Census Bureau, local municipal data · Updated 2026-04
Affordable river town with outdoor recreation and a growing downtown scene.
26,992
Population
$255,000
Median Home Price
10 mi
To Crystal Lake
60050, 60051
ZIP Codes
What Makes McHenry Stand Out
- ✓ Fox River waterfront with marinas and restaurants
- ✓ McHenry Riverwalk and downtown dining
- ✓ More affordable housing than Crystal Lake
- ✓ Moraine Hills State Park nearby
- ✓ MCCD college campus
McHenry vs Crystal Lake at a Glance
| Metric | McHenry | Crystal Lake |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 26,992 | 40,388 |
| Median Home Price | $255,000 | $310,000 |
| Type | City | City |
| Distance to Crystal Lake | 10 miles | — |
For a detailed comparison including commute, schools, and cost of living, see Crystal Lake vs McHenry.
Living in McHenry, IL
McHenry is a city located 10 miles from Crystal Lake in McHenry County, Illinois. With a population of 26,992 and a median home price of $255,000, McHenry offers a more affordable alternative to Crystal Lake while sharing access to many of the same amenities, schools, and community events in the greater Crystal Lake trade area.
Residents of McHenry benefit from proximity to Crystal Lake's downtown dining, shopping, and recreation, as well as access to the Metra commuter rail for Chicago-bound commuters. The area is served by top-rated school districts and offers a range of housing options from historic homes to new construction.