When considering a move to the Chicago area, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right suburb. The Windy City and its surroundings offer a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and benefits.
In this blog, I’ll share my insights on the best suburbs in Chicago, focusing on factors like safety, schools, commute times, and lifestyle amenities. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or a change of pace, this guide will help you find the perfect place to call home.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Suburb
Choosing the right suburb depends on various personal and practical factors:
- Safety: It’s crucial to live in a neighborhood where you feel secure. Reviewing crime statistics and speaking with locals can provide a sense of safety in a suburb.
- Schools: For families, the quality of local schools is a top priority. GreatSchools and local school district websites are excellent resources for evaluating educational opportunities.
- Commute to Chicago: Proximity to Chicago and access to public transportation can significantly impact your daily life. Consider the distance and available transit options.
- Amenities and Lifestyle: Each suburb offers different amenities such as parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Consider what lifestyle suits you best.
Top Suburbs in Chicago
Here’s a closer look at some of the top suburbs around Chicago, based on factors like safety, schools, and overall quality of life.
Suburb Profiles
1. Evanston
Highlights:
- Home to Northwestern University
- Vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, and cultural events
Key Features:
- Excellent public schools
- Diverse community
- Beautiful lakefront
Schools and Safety: Evanston is served by Evanston Township High School (ETHS), which has a GreatSchools rating of 8/10. ETHS is known for its rigorous academic programs and diverse extracurricular activities. The community is also proactive about safety, with a strong local police presence and active neighborhood watch programs.
Commute and Transportation: Evanston is well-connected to Chicago via the CTA Purple Line and Metra trains, making it an ideal location for commuters.
2. Naperville
Highlights:
- Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S.
- Family-friendly environment with numerous parks and recreational activities
Key Features:
- Top-rated school districts
- Safe neighborhoods
- Thriving downtown area
Schools and Safety: Naperville is served by two highly acclaimed school districts: Naperville Community Unit School District 203 and Indian Prairie School District 204. Naperville Central High School and Neuqua Valley High School are both rated 10/10 by GreatSchools. The suburb is also known for its low crime rate, making it a safe place to raise a family.
Commute and Transportation: While a bit farther from Chicago, Naperville is served by Metra’s BNSF Railway line, offering a reasonable commute to the city.
3. Oak Park
Highlights:
- Rich in history and architecture, including Frank Lloyd Wright homes
- Strong community focus on arts and culture
Key Features:
- Diverse and inclusive community
- Excellent public transportation options
Schools and Safety: Oak Park is served by Oak Park and River Forest High School, which has a GreatSchools rating of 9/10. The school is renowned for its academic excellence and strong arts programs. Oak Park has highly regarded schools and is known for its community-oriented policing, contributing to a strong sense of safety.
Commute and Transportation: Oak Park is directly connected to Chicago via the CTA Green Line and Blue Line, providing quick and easy access to the city.
4. Buffalo Grove
Highlights:
- Quiet, residential community
- Known for its parks and recreational facilities
Key Features:
- Excellent schools
- Family-friendly atmosphere
Schools and Safety: Buffalo Grove High School, part of Township High School District 214, is rated 8/10 by GreatSchools. The suburb is known for its safe environment, with low crime rates and a strong community policing program.
Commute and Transportation: Buffalo Grove is served by the Metra North Central Service, offering convenient access to downtown Chicago.
5. Schaumburg
Highlights:
- Major commercial hub with a variety of shopping and dining options
- Home to the Woodfield Mall, one of the largest malls in America
Key Features:
- Good schools
- Family-friendly environment
Schools and Safety: Schaumburg is served by Schaumburg Township District 54 and Township High School District 211. James B. Conant High School is rated 9/10 by GreatSchools and is known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs. The suburb maintains a low crime rate and has active community safety programs.
Commute and Transportation: Schaumburg is accessible via the Metra Milwaukee District/West Line, though it is more car-dependent than some other suburbs.
6. Winnetka
Highlights:
- Exclusive, upscale community with stunning homes
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and parks
Key Features:
- Top-tier schools
- High safety standards
Schools and Safety: Winnetka is home to New Trier High School, one of the top public high schools in the nation, with a GreatSchools rating of 10/10. The school offers rigorous academic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Winnetka also boasts a very low crime rate, making it one of the safest suburbs in the area.
Commute and Transportation: Winnetka is served by the Metra Union Pacific/North Line, offering a convenient commute to downtown Chicago.
7. Wilmette
Highlights:
- Scenic lakefront community
- Strong community spirit
Key Features:
- Excellent schools
- Family-friendly environment
Schools and Safety: Wilmette is served by New Trier High School (10/10 rating) and Wilmette Junior High School (9/10 rating). The suburb has a very low crime rate and is considered one of the safest places to live in the Chicago area.
Commute and Transportation: Wilmette is well-connected to Chicago via the Metra Union Pacific/North Line and the CTA Purple Line.
8. Glenview
Highlights:
- Mix of urban and suburban living
- Numerous parks and outdoor spaces
Key Features:
- Highly-rated schools
- Strong community amenities
Schools and Safety: Glenbrook South High School in Glenview is rated 10/10 by GreatSchools. Glenview is known for its low crime rate and proactive community safety initiatives.
Commute and Transportation: Glenview is served by the Metra Milwaukee District/North Line, offering easy access to Chicago.
9. Hinsdale
Highlights:
- Historic charm with modern amenities
- High-end dining and shopping options
Key Features:
- Top-notch schools
- Exclusive, upscale community
Schools and Safety: Hinsdale Central High School is rated 10/10 by GreatSchools. Hinsdale is known for its high safety standards, making it one of the safest suburbs in the Chicago area.
Commute and Transportation: Hinsdale is accessible via the Metra BNSF Railway line, providing a convenient commute to downtown Chicago.
10. Arlington Heights
Highlights:
- Large, vibrant community
- Rich in cultural and recreational activities
Key Features:
- Excellent schools
- Family-friendly atmosphere
Schools and Safety: John Hersey High School, part of Township High School District 214, is rated 9/10 by GreatSchools. Arlington Heights has a low crime rate and strong community policing efforts.
Commute and Transportation: Arlington Heights is served by the Metra Union Pacific/Northwest Line, offering convenient access to downtown Chicago.
Comparative Analysis
When comparing these suburbs, it’s important to consider the cost of living, quality of life, and accessibility:
- Cost of Living: Suburbs like Winnetka and Hinsdale tend to have a higher cost of living due to their exclusivity and high property values. In contrast, Schaumburg and Buffalo Grove offer more affordable housing options.
- Quality of Life: Each suburb offers a high quality of life but in different ways. For example, Evanston is vibrant and bustling, ideal for those who enjoy cultural activities, while Naperville and Arlington Heights are more suburban and family-oriented.
- Accessibility and Commute: Proximity to Chicago varies. Oak Park and Evanston offer the shortest commutes, making them perfect for those who work in the city. Suburbs like Naperville and Schaumburg, while farther out, provide excellent amenities that might outweigh the longer commute for some.
Conclusion
Choosing the right suburb is a highly personal decision, influenced by your lifestyle, needs, and priorities. From the bustling, cultural hub of Evanston to the family-friendly streets of Naperville, each suburb has something unique to offer. I recommend visiting these areas, exploring local amenities, and speaking with residents to get a true feel for what life would be like. Whether you’re looking for top-notch schools, a safe community, or a quick commute to Chicago, there’s a suburb here that’s perfect for you.
I hope this guide helped you in your search for the best suburb in Chicago. Happy house hunting!
References and Further Research
For more detailed information and statistics, check out the following resources:
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