Introduction
Are you considering moving to the Chicago suburbs with your family? With its diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities, Chicago offers a wide range of options for families looking for a place to call home. In this article, we will explore some of the top suburbs in Chicago and discuss their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Naperville
Schools and Education
Naperville is renowned for its exceptional school system, making it an ideal choice for families seeking quality education for their children. The suburb is home to several highly ranked public and private schools, ensuring that your children receive an excellent education in a supportive environment.
Community and Safety
Naperville prides itself on its strong sense of community and safety. The suburb offers a welcoming atmosphere and various community events that bring families together. Additionally, Naperville has consistently been ranked as one of the safest cities in the United States, providing peace of mind for parents.
Recreation and Parks
Naperville boasts an abundance of parks and recreational facilities, perfect for families to enjoy outdoor activities. The suburb’s expansive park system includes playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas, ensuring there’s always something for everyone in the family to do.
Cost of Living
While Naperville offers numerous advantages, it’s important to consider the cost of living. Housing prices in Naperville can be relatively high compared to other suburbs, and the overall cost of living may be higher as well. However, many families find the benefits and quality of life in Naperville outweigh the higher expenses.
Transportation and Commute
Naperville provides convenient transportation options for commuters. The suburb has a Metra train station, which offers a direct route to downtown Chicago. Additionally, major highways like I-88 and I-355 pass through or near Naperville, making it accessible for those who prefer to drive.
Arlington Heights
Schools and Education
Arlington Heights is known for its excellent schools, providing a strong educational foundation for children. The suburb is home to top-rated public and private schools, ensuring that your children receive a quality education. Additionally, Arlington Heights is in close proximity to prestigious universities and colleges, offering opportunities for higher education.
Downtown Area and Amenities
Arlington Heights boasts a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Families can enjoy exploring local businesses, dining at family-friendly restaurants, or attending community events and festivals held in the downtown area throughout the year.
Community and Recreation
Arlington Heights prides itself on its strong sense of community. The suburb offers numerous parks, community centers, and recreational facilities for families to enjoy. From sports fields and playgrounds to swimming pools and fitness classes, there are plenty of activities available for all ages.
Cost of Living
It’s important to consider the cost of living in Arlington Heights. While the suburb offers a high quality of life, housing prices can be higher compared to other suburbs in the area. However, many families find the amenities, schools, and community atmosphere worth the investment.
Transportation and Commute
Arlington Heights provides convenient transportation options for commuters. The suburb has a Metra train station, which offers direct routes to downtown Chicago. Additionally, major highways like I-90 and I-290 pass through or near Arlington Heights, making it accessible for those who prefer to drive.
Evanston
Schools and Education
Evanston is renowned for its excellent schools, making it an attractive choice for families seeking quality education for their children. The suburb is home to highly rated public and private schools, ensuring that your children receive a top-notch education. Additionally, Evanston is also home to Northwestern University, offering educational opportunities for all ages.
Lakefront Location and Beaches
Evanston’s lakefront location is a major draw for families. With its beautiful beaches and recreational activities, it provides a serene and picturesque environment for families to enjoy. Whether it’s swimming, picnicking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, Evanston’s lakefront offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun.
Urban Amenities with Suburban Feel
Evanston offers the best of both worlds – urban amenities and a suburban feel. The suburb has a vibrant downtown area with a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Families can enjoy exploring local businesses, dining at various cuisines, and attending events at the renowned Evanston Art Center.
Cost of Living
It’s essential to consider the cost of living in Evanston. While the suburb offers numerous advantages, housing prices and overall costs can be higher compared to other suburbs. However, many families find the benefits of living in Evanston, such as the lakefront location and access to amenities, justify the higher expenses.
Transportation and Commute
Evanston provides convenient transportation options for both local and downtown commuting. The suburb has multiple CTA and Metra train stations, offering easy access to Chicago and other suburbs. Additionally, Evanston promotes bike-friendly infrastructure, making it a great option for those who prefer cycling.
Oak Park
Schools and Education
Oak Park is renowned for its excellent schools, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a quality education for their children. The suburb is home to top-rated public and private schools that emphasize academic achievement and provide a supportive learning environment.
Historic Architecture and Cultural Attractions
Oak Park is famous for its beautiful historic architecture, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic designs. Families can explore the historic neighborhoods and visit attractions like the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. Oak Park is also home to various museums, theaters, and art galleries, providing cultural enrichment for all ages.
Community and Recreation
Oak Park offers a strong sense of community and a variety of recreational opportunities. The suburb has numerous parks, playgrounds, and sports fields where families can enjoy outdoor activities. Oak Park also hosts community events, festivals, and farmers markets throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Convenience and Access to Amenities
Oak Park provides easy access to amenities, including grocery stores, shops, and restaurants. The suburb has a vibrant downtown area with a mix of both local and chain businesses. Families can enjoy dining out, shopping for daily necessities, and exploring the local establishments conveniently located within the community.
Cost of Living
It’s important to consider the cost of living in Oak Park. While the suburb offers a unique blend of history, culture, and community, housing prices can be higher compared to neighboring suburbs. However, many families find the charm and amenities of Oak Park well worth the investment.
Wheaton
Schools and Education
Wheaton is renowned for its excellent schools, making it an attractive destination for families seeking a quality education for their children. The suburb is home to highly rated public and private schools that prioritize academic achievement and provide a supportive learning environment.
Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Wheaton offers an abundance of parks and outdoor spaces for families to enjoy. The suburb’s park system includes playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Families can engage in hiking, biking, sports, and nature exploration within their own community.
Community and Family-Friendly Events
Wheaton prides itself on its strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere. The suburb hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the popular Wheaton Wine Walk and the Taste of Wheaton. These events bring families together and create a vibrant community spirit.
Convenience and Access to Amenities
Wheaton offers convenient access to amenities such as grocery stores, shopping centers, and restaurants. The suburb has a bustling downtown area with a mix of local businesses and larger retailers. Families can easily fulfill their daily needs and enjoy dining out without venturing far from home.
Cost of Living
While Wheaton offers numerous advantages, it’s important to consider the cost of living. Housing prices in Wheaton can be relatively higher compared to neighboring suburbs. However, many families find the quality of life, excellent schools, and recreational opportunities in Wheaton worth the investment.
Schaumburg
Schools and Education
Schaumburg is known for its excellent schools, ensuring a quality education for children. The suburb offers highly rated public and private schools, providing a strong foundation for academic success. Schaumburg is also in close proximity to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for higher education.
Shopping and Entertainment
Schaumburg is a shopper’s paradise, thanks to its proximity to Woodfield Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States.
Shopping and Entertainment (continued)
Woodfield Mall boasts a wide range of stores, from high-end brands to popular retailers, ensuring that families have access to a diverse selection of shopping options. Additionally, Schaumburg offers a variety of entertainment venues, including theaters, amusement parks, and indoor play centers, providing endless opportunities for family fun.
Community and Diversity
Schaumburg is a diverse and inclusive community, attracting families from various backgrounds. The suburb celebrates its diversity through cultural events, festivals, and community organizations. Families can experience different cuisines, traditions, and celebrations, fostering a sense of acceptance and understanding.
Recreation and Parks
Schaumburg offers an array of parks and recreational facilities for families to enjoy outdoor activities. The suburb’s park system includes playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing ample space for families to engage in sports, nature walks, and leisurely picnics.
Cost of Living
When considering Schaumburg as a potential suburb for your family, it’s important to take into account the cost of living. While Schaumburg offers numerous amenities and a high quality of life, housing prices can be higher compared to other suburbs. However, many families find the benefits and convenience of living in Schaumburg outweigh the higher expenses.
Transportation and Commute
Schaumburg provides convenient transportation options for commuters. The suburb has a Metra train station, which offers direct routes to downtown Chicago. Additionally, major highways like I-90 and I-290 pass through or near Schaumburg, making it accessible for those who prefer to drive.
Elmhurst
Schools and Education
Elmhurst is known for its excellent schools, ensuring that children receive a quality education. The suburb is home to top-rated public and private schools that emphasize academic achievement and provide a supportive learning environment.
Community and Sense of Belonging
Elmhurst offers a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere. The suburb hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year, bringing families together and fostering a sense of belonging. Elmhurst’s friendly neighborhoods and active community organizations make it easy to connect with other families.
Parks and Recreation
Elmhurst boasts numerous parks and recreational facilities for families to enjoy. The suburb’s park system includes playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Families can engage in sports, nature walks, and picnics within their own community.
Downtown Area and Local Businesses
Elmhurst’s vibrant downtown area is filled with local businesses, shops, and restaurants. Families can enjoy exploring unique boutiques, dining at family-friendly eateries, and attending events at the Elmhurst Art Museum. The downtown area provides a charming backdrop for family outings and community gatherings.
Cost of Living
It’s important to consider the cost of living in Elmhurst. While the suburb offers a high quality of life and numerous amenities, housing prices can be higher compared to neighboring suburbs. However, many families find the benefits of living in Elmhurst, such as excellent schools and a strong sense of community, worth the investment.
Glenview
Schools and Education
Glenview is known for its top-rated schools, ensuring a quality education for children. The suburb offers highly regarded public and private schools that emphasize academic excellence and provide a nurturing learning environment.
Parks and Recreation
Glenview offers an abundance of parks, open spaces, and recreational facilities for families to enjoy. The suburb’s park system includes playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Families can engage in sports, nature walks, picnics, and organized recreational programs.
Community and Sense of Belonging
Glenview prides itself on its strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere. The suburb hosts various community events, festivals, and parades throughout the year, bringing families together and fostering a sense of belonging. Glenview’s active community organizations and neighborhood associations make it easy to connect with other families.
Convenience and Access to Amenities
Glenview provides convenient access to amenities such as grocery stores, shopping centers, and restaurants. The suburb has a mix of both local businesses and larger retailers, ensuring that families can easily fulfill their daily needs and enjoy dining out without traveling far from home.
Cost of Living
While Glenview offers numerous advantages, it’s important to consider the cost of living. Housing prices in Glenview can be higher compared to neighboring suburbs. However, many families find the benefits of living in Glenview, such as excellent schools and a family-friendly atmosphere, outweigh the higher expenses.
Hinsdale
Schools and Education
Hinsdale is renowned for its exceptional schools, making it an attractive choice for families seeking quality education for their children. The suburb is home to top-rated public and private schools that prioritize academic excellence and provide a supportive learning environment.
Charming Downtown Area
Hinsdale’s downtown area exudes charm and offers a variety of local shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Families can enjoy strolling along the streets, exploring unique stores, and dining at family-friendly eateries. The downtown area also hosts seasonal events and farmers markets, adding to the vibrant community atmosphere.
Recreation and Parks
Hinsdale offers a range of recreational opportunities for families. The suburb has numerous parks, sports fields, and playgrounds where children can engage in outdoor activities. Hinsdale also provides access to forest preserves, nature trails, and country clubs, ensuring that families have ample opportunities for leisure and recreation.
Community and Sense of Belonging
Hinsdale fosters a strong sense of community and a tight-knit atmosphere. The suburb hosts various community events, parades, and festivals throughout the year, bringing families together and creating a sense of belonging. Hinsdale’s active community organizations and neighborhood associations make it easy to connect with other families.
Cost of Living
It’s important to consider the cost of living in Hinsdale. The suburb is known for its luxury homes and high-end real estate, which can result in a higher cost of living compared to neighboring suburbs. However, many families find the benefits of living in Hinsdale, such as excellent schools and a strong community, worth the investment.
Park Ridge
Schools and Education
Park Ridge is known for its excellent schools, providing a quality education for children. The suburb offers highly rated public and private schools that prioritize academic achievement and provide a supportive learning environment.
Community and Small-Town Charm
Park Ridge offers a strong sense of community and small-town charm. The suburb has a vibrant downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and community events. Families can enjoy exploring the downtown area, attending festivals, and participating in community organizations and activities.
Parks and Recreation
Park Ridge boasts numerous parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities for families to enjoy. The suburb’s park system includes sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Families can engage in sports, nature walks, picnics, and organized recreational programs.
Transportation and Commute
Park Ridge provides convenient transportation options for commuters. The suburb has a Metra train station, offering direct routes to downtown Chicago. Additionally, major highways like I-294 and I-90 are easily accessible from Park Ridge, making it convenient for those who prefer to drive.
Cost of Living
While Park Ridge offers numerous advantages, it’s important to consider the cost of living. Housing prices in Park Ridge can be higher compared to neighboring suburbs. However, many families find the benefits of living in Park Ridge, such as excellent schools and a close-knit community, worth the investment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right suburb for your family in the Chicago area is a decision that requires careful consideration. Each suburb has its own unique set of pros and cons, and it’s important to prioritize your family’s needs and budget. Whether you prefer excellent schools, a strong sense of community, convenient amenities, or recreational opportunities, there is a perfect Chicago suburb for every family. Take the time to explore and visit each suburb to find the one that best suits your family’s lifestyle and preferences.