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10 Suburbs Surrounding Chicago You Should Consider

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Living in the suburbs surrounding Chicago provides a refreshing alternative to the city’s fast-paced urban lifestyle. Many seek out these suburban areas for their serene environments, spacious homes, and a strong sense of community. Their unique combination of suburban charm and urban attractions has led to a growing trend of people calling these areas home.

Naperville

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Approximately 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville offers better amenities and a vibrant community. Recently ranked as the best city to live in America by Niche for 2024, it combines highly rated public schools, low crime rates, and a wide variety of both cultural and recreational amenities.

Evanston

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Evanston’s blend of urban amenities and suburban charm makes it one of the best suburbs in Chicago. Northwestern University’s presence infuses the town with youthful energy and grants residents access to several lectures and performances. Additionally, Evanston’s location along Lake Michigan provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Hinsdale

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About 20 miles west of downtown Chicago, Hinsdale is recognized as an affluent community with exceptional features. The median household income exceeds $203,000, and the average home price is around $884,700. Beyond this, the vibrant community atmosphere is enriched by historic architecture and green spaces.

Oak Park

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This community’s vibrant atmosphere appeals to families, young professionals, and city transplants. It has a rich cultural environment with historic architecture, including numerous buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. In addition, it is well-connected through the Metra train and the “L” subway system.

Schaumburg

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Schaumburg ranks among Illinois’ safest municipalities. Their public school system is among the best in the nation and serves over 15,000 students with a favorable student-to-teacher ratio. Major employers, like Zurich North America and OptumRX, are in the area, which provides ample job opportunities.

Winnetka

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A pristine suburb located along the shores of Lake Michigan, Winnetka offers excellent public schools, like New Trier High School, which is among the top high schools in the nation. The city also offers a vibrant community life that you will love, with residents enjoying access to beautiful beaches.

Downers Grove

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Downers Grove is only 23 miles from downtown Chicago, and it features family-owned shops, restaurants, and community events. In this suburb, a median home costs $402,500, and diverse housing options cater to various budgets. There are also over 600 acres of green spaces for outdoor activities and family gatherings.

Arlington Heights

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Residents appreciate Arlington Heights for its excellent amenities and strong community. The famous Arlington Park Racetrack is situated in this neighborhood, adding a unique charm and providing diverse entertainment options. Moreover, Arlington Heights is characterized by its accessible transportation, which includes a Metra train station.

Elmhurst

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Elmhurst’s low lawbreaking rate is one of the suburb’s strong points. This is made possible through effective community policing initiatives that foster a secure environment for families and residents. The suburb provides beautiful parks like Wilder Park and a vibrant downtown area with different dining options and shops.

Barrington

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Yet another ideal Chicago suburb, Barrington, has a rich history with well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Residents enjoy access to numerous parks and nature preserves, including the scenic Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve. The community is also known for its spacious homes, many of which are valued significantly above the regional average.

Written by Ian Bronson

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