Chicago is one of America’s most significant cities. It is an economic and commercial center, home to some of the country’s most influential companies, trendiest shops, and exciting dining options. However, not everyone who wants to be near Chicago is interested in living within the city limits.
While living in a big city like Chicago has significant upsides, there are also notable downsides. That’s why many choose to live in the suburbs surrounding the city. These suburbs have easy access to the big city but are quieter, more laid-back places to live. Let’s look at some of the Chicago suburbs that are excellent places to have a home.
Evanston
Evanston is one of the most popular Chicago suburbs, situated roughly a half-hour drive from downtown. Evanston is considered one of the more desirable suburbs surrounding the city, with beautiful homes on the lake, appealing architecture, and top safety ratings. Home to more than 70,000 residents, it still has a busy, urban feel while being removed from the noise and crowds of Chicago’s downtown. Evanston is popular for those that want to walk along the lakeshore, with excellent parks and commercial areas by the water.
Naperville
Naperville is a busy suburb with a history stretching back to the 1700s. Today, this historic area is now a thriving community home to nearly 150,000 residents. Naperville is a 45-minute drive from Chicago, but residents have all they need within the city limits. There are two school districts, a massive park network with many forested trails, and excellent restaurants. The city’s downtown is where many restaurants, shops, and attractions are concentrated, and it is an appealing and walkable area.
Buffalo Grove
Buffalo Grove is a mid-sized suburb, home to 40,000 residents. It is known as an especially safe community, making it an ideal place to raise a family. Buffalo Grove has highly-ranked public schools, picturesque parks and nature preserves, and excellent attractions. It is also a popular golf destination during the summer, and features a popular farmer’s market and a charming downtown area.
Wilmette
Wilmette is a suburb north of downtown Chicago along the shores of Lake Michigan. It is a scenic, pleasant place home to 27,000 residents. Wilmette is a highly desirable place to live because of its tree-lined streets, trails by the water, and appealing architecture. Wilmette also includes numerous shopping centers, restaurants, and natural attractions.
Clarendon Hills
Clarendon Hills is a small suburb southwest of Chicago. This quiet village of almost 9,000 residents is consistently ranked among the best places to live in Illinois. It is an affluent suburb, consisting of homes with higher prices than most suburbs, yet there are great perks of living in this village. It is a half-hour drive or an hour via public transit to Chicago, has excellent schools, and is extremely safe while also being community-oriented and scenic.
Orland Park
Orland Park is a Chicago suburb with several attributes that set it apart. For starters, it is an excellent city for golf lovers, with five courses within the city. It has been called the world’s golf center. Orland Park is home to nearly 60,000 residents and is a 35-minute drive from the big city. It is a historic community with many family-oriented attractions, ranging from water parks to mini golf.
