Chapter 2 Of Chicago Suburbs: Northernwest Suburbs
The Northwest Suburbs make up most of Chicagos land area. Its situated in Northwestern Cook County and centered along the paths of Union Pacific Northwest Metra Rail Line.
If northwest is your peg and you want to know whats the best neighborhood to move to in this part of Chicago, these suburbs are worth checking out.
Things To Do In Oak Park
Attend events like Whats Blooming on Harrison Street at the Oak Park Arts District. Play tennis, practice your frisbee skills, or attend a summer concert at Scoville Park. See various flora and fauna in the tropical and Mediterranean gardens at Oak Park Conservatory. Learn more about the life of author Ernest Hemingway and take a guided tour at Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum. Watch a local production of A Midsummer Nights Dream and other classics at Oak Park Festival Theatre. Get the Coffee of the Day and Tofu Veggie Scramble for a morning pick-me-up at The Buzz Cafe. Grab a Bento Box lunch like the Grilled Chicken Teriyaki or Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass from SEN Sushi Bar. Eat old-fashioned ice cream in a vintage parlor at Petersens Old Fashioned Ice Cream. Visit Citrine Cafe for Mediterranean bites like Wild Mushroom Ravioli, Steak Frites, and Seared Faroe Islands Salmon. Or try beers like the Prohibition Pilsner, Chicago Common, and Baltic Porter at Kinslahger Brewing Company.
Things To Do In Naperville
Stroll along Naperville Riverwalk, where you can visit the Dandelion Fountain, go paddle boating, or look at the artwork throughout the Century Walk. Cool off in the summer heat and swim in the former quarry-turned-swimming pool at Centennial Beach. Explore hands-on exhibits like Awesome Energy, Make It Move, and The Studio at DuPage Childrens Museum. Watch the Naperville Municipal Band and other local performing arts groups at Naperville Community Concert Center. Get your morning caffeine in from Sparrow Coffee and choose from a rotating selection of single-origin coffees. Try creative grilled cheese creations like the Tuna Turner, Sloppy Mack, and The Socra-Cheez from Everdines Grilled Cheese Co. Have a taste of Spain with traditional tapas like Queso con Pacanas, Crepe Rellena, and Valenciana Paella at Meson Sabika. Order Cajun White Fish Tacos, Pan Seared Szechwan Scallops, or a Hawaiian Poke Bowl at Catch 35. Or sip on some craft brews like the Friday Junior IPA, Cake Wafter Sour Ale, or Section 37 Pilsner at Solemn Oath Brewery.
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Summary: Welcome To The Best Chicago ‘burbs Of 2022
We said it once and we’ll say it again–life in the big city isn’t for everyone. At least not all the time.
So if you’re hankering for some of the amenities of a larger city like Chicago, but don’t want to deal with the drawbacks, one of these suburbs might just be for you.
For more Illinois reading, check out:
Local Hinsdale Area Stats:
- Annual Property Tax : $10,000+
- Median Household Income: $203,368
- Hinsdales Average Home Price: $884,700
In addition, the village of Hinsdale has very low crime rates and historically high housing prices. Notable attractions include Graue Mill and Museum as well as Ty Warner Park, making it a top western suburb for affluent families and out-of-town visitors.
Recently trending neighborhoods located near Hinsdale include Western Springs, La Grange Park, and Brookfield, Illinois.
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What You Need To Know
Known by locals as the expansive home of suburban residents who live south of I-55 and the Chicago Skyway, the southern suburbs of Chicago border Indiana and reach as far south as Beecher. This vast community formed after World War II, when veterans returned to settle in a quiet area removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Though arguably underdeveloped, towns like Orland Park, Frankfort, and Homer Glen stand out as the regions more happening areas.
Counties: Cook, Will, Lake Zip: 60803, 60406, 60430, 60409, 60445, 60419, 60411, 60438 etc.
Communities: Alsip, Midlothian, Blue Island, Chicago Heights, Calumet City, East Chicago, Lansing, Hammond, Harvey etc.Major CTA Stops: Metra Rock Island District, Metra Electric
Map Of The Best Chicago Suburbs
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Chapter 5 Of Chicago Suburbs: South Suburbs
While often overlooked by dwellers of the north Chicagoland, South Suburbs has hidden beauty to offer.
Apart from large forest preserves, the south is rimmed with old farming lands, clean residential neighborhoods, quaint dining spots, extensive golf courses, refreshing lakeshore, disciplined bus system, and neat expressways.
Neighborhood Stats Glenview Il:
- Glenview, IL Population 2020: 48,705
- Annual Property Tax : $8,939
- Median Household Income: $115,198
- Average Home Value: $499,900
Next, Glenview is home to the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Glen Club, a popular Chicagoland golf course and hotel. Not to mention, there are a number of shopping and dining options at The Glen Town Center Mall.
A Growing Suburb Of Chicago
Aside from the fantastic school system, Glenview has very low crime rates and plenty of family-friendly amenities that make it a great place to raise kids in Illinois. Lastly, its population has grown 5.8% since 2010. This makes Glenview one of the fastest-growing suburbs of Chicago over the past decade.
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Best Chicago Suburbs 2022
by Andre Kazimierski | May 28, 2022
Considering a move to the suburbs of Chicago? Heres the essential list of the best suburbs in Chicago of 2022 to help you find the perfect suburb to live in the greater Chicagoland metropolitan area.
As a precursor, we focused on medium to larger-sized Chicago suburbs that are within driving distance to downtown Chicago, Illinois. Additionally, this suburban Chicago neighborhood list factors in family-friendliness, population growth, safety, household income, affordability, and access to amenities.
Lastly, if your Chicago area city didnt make the list this year, look out for your neighborhood in future updates. Accordingly, this list will continue to be updated each year as Chicagoland suburbs grow and change. For easy reference, you can use this Chicago Suburbs Map to view all of the cities below.
Without further ado, lets dive into our best Chicago suburbs list for 2022!
Average Home Prices In Chicago Suburbs
On top of the community divide, Chicagos high cost of living will also be a major factor when determining where you want to live.
Chicagos median home price is significantly higher than the national average of $188,900. That being said, youll still be able to find homes listed on both sides of the spectrum.
Those looking for more reasonably priced homes will want to focus on Round Lake, Woodridge, Palatine, and Hoffman Estates to find houses closer to Chicagos average.
But hey, maybe you arent quite ready to invest in a house? Heres what the suburban rent situation looks like.
Youll probably have more luck finding a good deal in the suburban rental market.
Of all the areas we are covering, only Buffalo Grove, Round Lake, and Evanston come close to or exceed the average for rent in Chicago.
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The Burbs: Dont Call It Chicago
Chicago is a huge, sprawling city that has been divided into an absurd number of neighborhoods.
While theyre all considered part of the same city, there is a stark divide between those who live in the city proper and those who live in the suburbs.
If youre planning on heading out to The Burbs, its best to be prepared for the frequent reminders that you dont really live in Chicago.
Try not to take it too personally. Hating your neighbor for not being a true Chicagoan is just part of the Chicago experience.
Village Of Schaumburg Il Data:
- Population: 78,723
- Annual Property Tax : $5,787
- Median Household Income: $83,096
- Average Home Value: $251,100
As a highlight, the village of Schaumburg has countless restaurants, shopping, and things to do. The Town Square is Schaumburgs official downtown, located right off of Roselle Road. As a final note, its 10-year population growth rate is 6.1% which is higher than a majority of cities in Chicagos suburbs.
Want to see how Chicago compares to other major metros like St Louis? Read about our 10 best Saint Louis suburbs to see how the cities compare!
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City Of Naperville Illinois Overview:
- Population: 149,540
- Annual Property Tax : $7,531 in DuPage County
- Median Household Income: $125,926
- Average Home Value: $416,700
The sprawling west suburb spans both DuPage and Will County. In addition to top schools and low crime rates, Naperville has been rated as Niches Best City to Raise a Family in America in 2021. Moreover, the Naperville Riverwalk is a focal point of the community and a top attraction for families in the area. Located along the banks of the DuPage River, its truly a local gem in the west Chicagoland suburbs.
Want to learn about the best parts of Naperville to live in? Visit our list of the top 5 Naperville subdivisions to move to.
While more expensive than average across the US, Napervilles cost of living is actually 25% lower than the city of Chicago, Illinois. Last but not least, it boasts the best library system in the country in case you needed more reasons to move here.
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Things To Do In Evanston
Purchase a Beach Token and head to Greenwood Street Beach, where you can swim, rent kayaks, or simply relax and take in views of Lake Michigan. Go to Perkins Woods, a small forest preserve thats perfect for bird watching. See collections of Global Modern & Contemporary Art, Computer-Generated Art, and other works at The Block Museum of Art. Shop for childrens books in 48 languages or find your new favorite novel at Bookends & Beginnings. Spend a Saturday morning picking up some fresh fruit, vegetables, and flowers at Downtown Evanston Farmers Market. Kickstart the morning with the Cajun Scramble or Fried Green Tomato Eggs Benedict at The Lucky Platter. Pick up some Baby Back Ribs or a Sliced Brisket Sandwich at Heckeys Barbecue. Enjoy a fusion of Italian and Mediterranean with dishes like Garganelli Romero or Salmon Piccata at Terra & Vineand dont forget to finish your meal with Housemade Tiramisu! Or try the Stroop Dreams Pastry Stout, Disco Nap Session IPA, or Untethered Peach Saison at Temperance Beer Co.
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More Park Ridge Il Information:
- Park Ridge Population: 39,656
- Annual Property Tax : $9,508
- Median Household Income: $111,642
- Average Home Value: $437,000
The neighborhood has a vibrant downtown district that is lined with fantastic restaurants, boutiques, and shops. Likewise, the city of Park Ridge is safe and has very good public and private schools. As a result, it attracts a younger family demographic looking for a Chicago suburb thats still close to the city. Nearby towns include Des Plaines, Morton Grove, and Skokie, Illinois.
Cities like Park Ridge, Glen Ellyn, Oak Park, and Evanston are known for gorgeous historic homes. Unfortunately, a lot of older houses have ugly popcorn ceilings. Thats why our team of industry experts created this helpful guide to removing popcorn ceilings to make getting rid of them easier than ever!
Information About Oak Park:
- Annual Property Tax : $10,000+
- Median Household Income: $94,646
- Average Home Value: $387,300
Moreover, crime rates are moderate due to its proximity to the city but Oak Park high schools are very well rated. In particular, both Oak Park-River Forest and Fenwick are top-ranked public and private high schools in Chicago, IL each year.
Oak Park, Illinois is also known as the birthplace of Ernest Hemingway and is home to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. As a result, the village has a plethora of stunning historic architecture and victorian style homes.
As a result, the village has a plethora of stunning historic architecture and victorian style homes. I highly recommend taking one of the many Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture Tours in Oak Park when you get a chance. Nearby west side Chicago neighborhoods include Forest Park, River Forest, Cicero, and Riverside, Illinois.
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Chapter 1 Of Chicago Suburbs: Northern Suburbs
When it comes to schools, quality of life, and real estate, the North Suburbs is on top of the list. Its a perfect location to raise a family if youre seeking for one with exceptional sports facilities, high schools, and shopping establishments and unique landmarks such as the Navy Pier.
Heres a rundown of our most favorite suburbs in the North area.
This 160-year old suburb is located along the coast of Lake Michigan, with easy access to beautiful beaches and downtown Chicago for fun nights and shopping sprees. This windy suburb has approximately 21,000 residents to date.
Demographics
Things To Do In Buffalo Grove
Get outside at Willow Stream Park, where you can go swimming, play a game of disc golf, take part in a tennis match, or try sand volleyball. Cool off in the summer at Spray N Play, where there are over 20 water toys, sprays, and fountains. Schedule a tee time, practice your skills at the driving range, or buy a new putter in the Pro Shop at Buffalo Grove Golf Course. Take the family out for bowling, arcade games, and laser tag at Bowlero Buffalo Grove. Visit the Raupp Memorial Museum to learn more about Buffalo Groves history. Stop for breakfast at Flappys Pancake House and get the Irish Skillet, Cinnamon Roll Flapjacks, or a Peach & Walnut Waffle. Try specialty sushi rolls like World Series, 007 Roll, and Godzilla at Sushi Grove. Pick up some sweet treats like Passion Fruit Macarons, Banana Cupcakes, and Apple Fritters from Deerfields Bakery. Or make reservations at Countyline Tavern and order the Peanut Butter Cup Martini, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, and Cajun Mac & Cheese.
- Home Price: $356,600 median purchase price, $1,246 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 28% of Illinois cities
- Perfect For: Students, singles, young professionals, families, retirees
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Key Facts About Downers Grove Il:
- Population: 50,247
- Annual Property Tax : $5,886
- Median Household Income: $94,893
- Average Home Value: $353,100
The Downers Grove Park District adds to the neighborhoods family-friendly charm in addition to its numerous parks and the tranquil Hidden Lake Forest Preserve. All in all, the village of Downers Grove is a tight-knit community and very welcoming to a diverse mix of people from different backgrounds.
One of the biggest hidden gems in the western suburbs is actually a town you may not have heard of. La Grange Highlands is a suburb near Downers Grove that has an incredible school district, low crime, and reasonable property taxes. We highly recommend checking out the Highlands if you are looking for a top suburb that remains under the radar.
Things To Do In Wheaton
Go on a tram tour to see the various trees and plants of Illinois at The Morton Arboretum. Embark on a scavenger hunt, go hiking, or try out snowshoeing at Lincoln Marsh. Visit Cosley Zoo to see over 200 domestic farm animals and native Illinois animal species like Nubian goats, bobcats, and sandhill cranes. Learn more about the history of DuPage County in exhibits like Trinkets & Treasures and All Aboard at DuPage County Historical Museum. Play the 18-hole golf course at the historic Chicago Golf Club. Enjoy hearty breakfast dishes like Chipotle Chicken Sausage Frittata, Frosted Flake Crusted French Toast, or Italian Goat Cheese Omelette at Egglectic Cafe. Try unique burger creations like the Naan Burger, Korean BBQ Burger, or Beyond Social Stack Burger at The Burger Social. Treat yourself to delicious Thai food like Red Curry, Lemongrass Chicken, or Chouns Signature Pad Thai at Chouns. Head to Hale Street Cantina for Mexican-American fusion like the Bacon Elote Cheese Dip, Coconut Shrimp Tacos, and Frito Burrito. Or grab some friends and head to Dry City Brew Works for drafts like the Sol De Noche Stout and Patchwork Extra Pale Ale.
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Suburb statistics from AreaVibes
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