Choosing where to live is one of the most important decisions you can make. It’s not just about finding a house; it’s about discovering a community where you can thrive, connect, and grow. For many, leaving the hustle and bustle of Chicago city life in pursuit of more serene environs marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a relocating professional, or setting down roots with your family, identifying the perfect location and neighborhood to match your lifestyle is crucial. This comprehensive guide, brought to you by Suburban Jungle, is your roadmap to finding your suburban oasis in the vast and varied Chicagoland area.
Why Lifestyle Comes First
Before you even begin to look at houses, think deeply about the lifestyle you envision for yourself and your family. Are lively downtown areas with cafes, boutiques, and nightlife venues important to you? Do you dream of quiet streets lined with trees, parks, and community centers where neighbors become friends? Each Chicago suburb has its unique character, amenities, and community spirit. Understanding what aligns with your lifestyle needs is the first step to narrowing down your search.
Explore the Best Chicago Suburbs for City Dwellers
If you’re transitioning from city life but still crave that urban feel, several suburbs offer the best of both worlds. Here are a few top recommendations from our Suburban Jungle Strategists:
- Evanston: Known for its vibrant downtown area, cultural diversity, and beautiful lakeside setting, Evanston is ideal for those seeking a seamless blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility. It’s home to Northwestern University and boasts a thriving arts scene, top-rated schools, and a variety of housing options. It is a short commute to the city and a great transition from city life to the suburbs!
- Naperville: Located just 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville is the fifth-largest city in Illinois and consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in America. Its downtown area is bustling with restaurants, shops, and community events, and its highly-rated schools are a big draw for families. There are always things to do in town and a plethora of clubs and teams you can join for social involvement and an active lifestyle.
- Oak Park: This charming suburb offers a mix of historic homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. It’s also home to Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic architecture and boasts excellent public transportation options for commuters. Oak Park is as “city” as it gets for the suburbs and is the best mix of being in your Chicago stomping grounds with the benefits of suburban life.
- Arlington Heights: With a bustling downtown, excellent schools, and an expansive park district, Arlington Heights appeals to families and young professionals alike. There is a great downtown with many great restaurants, cafes, bars, and more. Being that this downtown is on the tracks and a quick ride to the city makes it even more desirable.
- Glen Ellyn: This charming suburb offers a peaceful atmosphere, top-rated schools, and a quaint downtown area that hosts popular festivals and events year-round. Plus, it’s just a short commute to Chicago via train, so traveling to work or just for a fun day back in the city is easy.
- Clarendon Hills: Nestled among picturesque parks and green spaces, Clarendon Hills offers a strong community spirit and easy access to both the city and nature. A quaint downtown with access to the BNSF line into the city makes it a commuter’s dream. Being close to many great golf courses, health clubs, and shopping destinations makes it easy to have fun.
Discover Hidden Gems in the Chicagoland Area
While these suburbs may be well-known for their attractive features, don’t overlook some of the lesser-known gems in the Chicagoland area. Our Suburban Jungle Strategists recommend checking out these underrated suburbs:
- La Grange: This close-knit community boasts a vibrant downtown, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community pride. It’s also centrally located, making it easy to access both the city and surrounding suburbs. La Grange is packed with restaurants, bars, boutique shops, and community buildings so you will never be bored or out of choices for things to do.
- Geneva: Nestled along the Fox River, Geneva offers a picturesque setting for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its charming downtown area is packed with local boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. While further west it is a great suburb that connects to St. Charles and Batavia and is a cyclist’s dream!
- Downers Grove: This suburb boasts a quaint downtown area filled with historic buildings, local restaurants, and a variety of community events. It’s also known for its top-rated schools, easy access to major expressways, and an easy 25-minute train ride into the city!
- Western Springs: This family-friendly suburb offers top-rated schools, spacious parks, and a strong sense of community. Its downtown area is home to local shops and restaurants, adding to its small-town charm and great parks and community facilities to keep your active lifestyle going!
- Wilmette: This picturesque suburb offers lakefront views, beautiful parks, and a strong sense of community. It’s also home to excellent schools, a variety of housing options, and a quick commute to the city. Its downtown offers plenty of dining options and cute local shops perfect for a weekend stroll.
- Barrington: Known for its large lots and spacious homes, Barrington also boasts a quaint downtown area and top-ranked schools. Its location at the edge of Cook County makes it a peaceful escape from the city without sacrificing urban amenities. The downtown is packed with cute shops and great restaurants so you never have to leave your little slice of heaven.
This is just a shortlist of what the Chicago burbs has to offer and we will work hard to find you the perfect locale for your needs.
Some Factors for Making Informed Decisions
Our local experts, or Strategists, are not just real estate professionals; they’re lifestyle matchmakers. By understanding your specific needs, desires, and dreams, they can match you with towns that offer the lifestyle you seek, plus factor in practical considerations such as commute times, school districts, and housing budgets.
The Importance of Community
When you choose a suburb, you’re also choosing a community. It’s about finding a place where you feel connected, supported, and at home. Suburban Jungle helps you look beyond the property listings to understand the heart and soul of each neighborhood.
Schools and Education
For families, the quality and ethos of local schools are often top of the list. But it’s not just about academic excellence. It’s about finding educational environments that resonate with your values and will support your child’s growth both academically and personally.
Commute and Connectivity
Consider how your location impacts your daily commute and access to the city. Whether it’s proximity to Metra stations or major highways, ease of travel can significantly influence your quality of life. Suburban Jungle helps you weigh these factors, balancing the benefits of suburban living with the practicality of urban access.
Real-Life Success Stories
Hear from those who’ve made the move with Suburban Jungle. Real-life examples and testimonials highlight the process and illustrate the tangible benefits of finding the right suburb that aligns with your lifestyle aspirations.
Practical Tips for Your Search
- Engage Early: Start your search with an open mind and a clear understanding of your priorities. The more your Strategist knows about you, the better they can tailor their search.
- Visit and Re-visit: Spend time in potential neighborhoods at different times and days to get a true feel for the community vibe and day-to-day life.
- Community Events: Attending local events can provide insights into the community spirit and how you might fit in.
In Conclusion
With its array of family-friendly neighborhoods, lifestyle-based home searches, and an emphasis on choosing the right suburb for your unique needs, Suburban Jungle stands ready to guide you through each step of your suburban exploration in the Chicagoland area. By focusing on your lifestyle first, we ensure that your move is not just about a new house but about a home that fits who you are and how you want to live.
Are you ready to find your suburban oasis? Reach out to Suburban Jungle today — because your perfect neighborhood awaits.
