Don’t Sacrifice Your Quick Commute To Enjoy Suburban Serenity
Chicago is a great city to call home, with its bustling downtown and endless dining and entertainment options. At Suburban Jungle, we know that living in the heart of the city can be expensive, noisy, and sometimes overwhelming. That’s why many people are choosing to move to Chicago’s vibrant surrounding suburbs instead. Not only do these suburbs offer greater space in quieter neighborhoods but commuting into the city is a breeze! Whether you’re using public transportation or your car, everything you love about the city is just a short trip away. Here are six of the best Chicago suburbs for commuters that you should consider for your next move:
1) Oak Park
Located just nine miles west of the Loop, Oak Park is an ideal suburb for commuters who want quick access to downtown while still enjoying all the benefits of suburban life. The village has its own Metra station so residents can take advantage of train service into downtown Chicago without having to drive every day. Plus, there are plenty of other public transit options like the CTA Blue Line and buses, as well as several bike paths throughout town that make getting around easier than ever before.
2) Evanston
This popular North Shore suburb is situated along Lake Michigan’s shoreline which makes it perfect for anyone wanting easy access to downtown via public transportation (express train options run directly from Northwestern University, via CTA Purple Line & Metra) and has beautiful lake views too! It’s also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, like The Block Museum at Northwestern University, as well as concert venues, such as SPACE. Plenty of excitement and entertainment opportunities could be available right in your backyard.
3) Elmhurst
Situated about 20 miles due west from central Chicago lies Elmhurst – one of Illinois’ most desirable communities. Not only does it have gorgeous residential areas filled with single family homes but also offers convenient access into downtown via either Metra BNSF Railway lines or Eisenhower Expressway for an easy commute. With a plethora of restaurants serving delicious cuisine and numerous shopping venues nearby, this vibrant community has it all!
4) Winnetka
With a short and convenient commute to downtown via Metra train lines, bus routes and by car, Winnetka is a wonderful Chicago suburb to call home.The Metra is the way to go for most commuters, though. Residents can also enjoy one of the most affluent suburbs in Chicagoland, known for its large, elegant homes, tree-lined streets, and top-ranked schools. The friendly community has many parks, recreational areas, and a variety of cultural and social activities- like the Winnetka Music Festival.
5) Park Ridge
For a mix of suburb and city-living, another recommendation would be Park Ridge, situated about 15 miles northwest of downtown. This lovely community boasts excellent schools, great parks, a walkable downtown (a.k.a. Uptown, to the locals), all with easy access to the city. Whether you choose to take the Blue Line from the Cumberland Park & Ride, Metra trains, or the Kennedy Expressway there’s no wrong way to get downtown to The Loop. Plus, if you’re a frequent traveler, Park Ridge is just a few minutes from O’Hare International Airport. For quieter weekends at home, there are plenty of family-oriented activities right in town, such as- the Pickwick Theatre, Wildwood Nature Center, Des Plaines River Trail, and Prospect Park.
6) Highland Park
While furthest from the city on our list, frequent train rides make Highland Park a desirable option for those willing to commute a little longer. The Metra is considered one of the most convenient options among Highland Park commuters- the Union Pacific North Line provides frequent service to downtown, with several stops along the way. When you’re not commuting, a variety of cute shops, chic restaurants, and cultural institutions are at your disposal, making it one of the most desirable places to live in all of Chicagoland.
Find The Right Suburb For You
No matter your lifestyle, the Chicago suburbs have you covered. From hip restaurants to excellent schools – you can get what you want while still being close to the city. Chicagoland’s excellent public transportation and easy access to expressways provide a quick commute into the city giving you the best of both worlds. While these six commuter friendly suburbs are a great start, there are plenty of others that can meet your needs. Schedule time with a Suburban Jungle strategist to discuss your needs and let us help you find the right town for your commute.