The Windy City has a reputation for great city neighborhoods each with a flavor of their own, but if you’ve reached the point where suburban life is calling you, rest assured. Chicago has a plethora of suburbs all within an easy commute if you still want to work and play in the city.
Enjoy green spaces, great schools and fantastic amenities like hip restaurants and shopping, hiking and biking trails, and recreation facilities. Here is a sampling of the seven best suburbs for you to consider if the time has come to flee the city or move to the Chicago area.
1. Winnetka
If you love a place with great scenery, the municipality of Winnetka could be for you. You’ll enjoy a stunning view of Lake Michigan during the day, and the bright lights of the city are mesmerizing at night. Walk or bike along the Skokie Lagoons Nature Trail, dine out at the fabulous Avli Restaurant, and take the kids to the Village Toy Shop where you may also find yourself with a new hobby.
2. Grayslake
Young families living in the suburb of Grayslake know they can depend on excellent city services like street maintenance, police services, garbage pickup & recycling and more. The downtown area features historical and artistic architecture that showcases the area’s heritage. Residents enjoy plenty of room to play outdoors with parks, bike paths, and forest preserves.
3. Buffalo Grove
Top-rated schools (a score of 9 of 10) from Greatschools.org, and low crime and unemployment rates make this suburb one of Chicago’s fastest growing. Despite the growth, you’ll live pleasantly along treelined streets and friendly residents. The kids play outdoors safely, and families join in on the many festivals. The Buffalo Grove Town Center is a mecca of shopping and fun for everyone.
4. Itasca
You will find older homes as well as newer ones in Itasca. Over the decades, Downtown Itasca has held on to its small-town charm while adding plenty of modern amenities. Older homes near downtown date back to the 1800s. Newer homes are to the north of the Itasca Country Club. For family fun stop by Daddy O’s Diner for a malt milkshake and then head to Itasca’s waterpark.
5. Elmhurst
A higher than average median income and a low unemployment rate makes Elmhurst a highly desirable neighborhood. You will be near a public library, art museum, and the Elmhurst Historical Museum. House payments here may be somewhat higher, but you’ll have access to loads of amenities including a community center, 22 parks, and a golf course.
6. Downers Grove
Named by Forbes as one of America’s Friendliest Towns, the Village of Downer’s has activities to keep the whole family busy all year. You’ll find summer camps, soccer, and art classes to name a few. Downer’s Grove has more than 150 restaurants to ensure plenty of places for a night out on the town.
7. Evergreen Park
The town of Evergreen Park flourishes with retail and service operations. Evergreen Plaza has retail shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Patrons from all around visit here to attend events and Broadway entertainment at the famous Drury Lane Theatre. The Little Company of Mary Hospital provides lots of jobs for residents.
