Chicago is a huge metropolis with an economy that plays a substantial role in making it one of America’s most significant cities. People across the country move to the Chicago area to seek job opportunities and enjoy the city’s unique culture. But not everyone working in Chicago wants to live in the city’s heart. Many prefer quieter, safer suburbs that still offer access to Chicago’s job market.
Oak Park is a pleasant suburb just outside the city. Most of its 55,000 residents work in Chicago every day before heading back into Oak Park, where its tranquil setting has become a popular destination for real estate buyers. Let’s look at what makes Oak Park an ideal community near Chicago.
Easy Access to the City
Since Oak Park is a commuter town based near Chicago, the trip to and from work every day will be one of the most important considerations for buyers. A long commute can be a real drag, but residents of Oak Park have a direct path into Chicago with a commute that can often be completed in less than half an hour.
Oak Park is a 13-minute drive without traffic into the heart of downtown. For those who prefer public transportation, the L train travels from Oak Park to the city center in no time.
Appealing Homes
Life in the heart of a big city is filled with crowds and condominiums designed to maximize space. Suburbs lack the congestion of big cities, and the tree-lined streets of Oak Park have large, inviting homes that help make it appealing to buyers.
Oak Park’s real estate is not cheap, but the options are abundant. This small city is famous for its residential architecture, featuring numerous homes from world-famous architects, such as Frank Lloyd Wright and other famed 20th-century masters of the industry.
Family-Friendly
Oak Park’s family-centric community is ideal for parents with children of all ages. Its large school district serves thousands of students and boasts plenty of highly ranked schools to pick from. Many of its neighborhoods are very safe, and the town has numerous attractions ideal for children.
The Brookfield Zoo is home to exotic creatures spanning the globe, and Wonder Works is a hands-on children’s museum with an assortment of fun activities for kids with an educational twist. There are also quality parks and sports facilities in and around Oak Park.
Delicious Dining Destinations
Chicago’s world-renowned, delicious array of food is one of the many reasons people flock to the area. While Oak Park’s food scene is much smaller, it still has a diverse collection of international food offerings and will satisfy the foodies craving flavors of any kind.
Lou Malnati’s is one of Chicago’s famed deep-dish pizzerias, and there is a large location in Oak Park. You can also enjoy French, Moroccan, Greek, and Latin food throughout the city, and the restaurants range from family-style eateries to upscale, trendy hotspots. Oak Park also has excellent craft breweries and lively bars to explore.
