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The Best Suburbs in Chicago
Moving to a new city is always challenging. And a large part of that challenge is looking for a place to live. There are so many things to consider when weighing your options-house styles, neighborhood safety, quality of schools, the convenience of location-it all can be quite overwhelming. But don’t stress. We’ve researched the best suburbs in Chicago for you, so you don’t have to. You’ve no doubt seen our Chicago City Guide, which includes a short section on a few of Chicago’s most popular neighborhoods (and by the way of introduction, we’re Bellhop —Chicago movers and movers throughout the country).
Today, we’re searching Chicago for the top suburbs. The Windy City’s beautiful landscape, water-side activities, a continuing stream of sporting events, tasty local grub, and some of the best breweries in the country make this city one of the best places to live. And since Chicago is still considered the nation’s “candy capital,” we’re giving you a sneak peek at the four sweetest residential spots around the city.
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Buffalo Grove
Buffalo Grove’s low crime rates, quality public schools, and family-friendly community make this neighborhood one of the best places to live in the state. Its manicured lawns, close-knit residents, and neighborhood parks convince new locals that they picked a wonderful community. And several families have stayed in the neighborhood for multiple generations.
Buffalo Grove is about an hour drive northwest of downtown Chicago. Speckled by scenic lakes and neighboring several conservation areas and forest preserves, this neighborhood is picturesque and peaceful. Golf courses, farmers markets, fitness centers, theaters, museums, restaurants – get ready to settle in. You could happily survive for quite some time in this village.
Things to do in Buffalo Grove
Buffalo Grove has some tasty options for local grub. Check out the Countyline Tavern for a rustic atmosphere and American fare. Or visit Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria and try their signature deep-dish pies. The Original Bagel & Bialy Jewish deli sells sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. And Prairie Krafts Brewing Company sells a sprawling variety of beer styles.
The neighborhood is also home to several green spaces and parks. Check out the scenic Buffalo Creek Trail Park, which is bordered by a 3.2-mile loop trail for joggers and walkers. Or visit the 16-acre Norwood Park featuring a dog park, fitness center, and sports programs.
Schools in Buffalo Grove
The top schools serving Buffalo Grove include Tripp Elementary School, Meridian Middle School, and Adlai E. Stevenson High School among others.
Homes in Buffalo Grove
Most residents of Buffalo Grove own their own homes, and the houses in the neighborhood have a median value of around $300k. But prices vary, of course.
Clarendon Hills
Clarendon Hills’ pretty homes and charming streets are located about a 45 minute drive west of downtown Chicago. The neighborhood offers yummy local restaurants and breweries just a walk away from many of the homes. With a small-town feel, Clarendon Hills has low crime rates, great schools, and incredibly welcoming residents.
Things to do in Clarendon Hills
One of Clarendon Hill’s attractions to Chicago locals is its plenteous and spacious parks – 8 to be exact. Locals enjoy hiking, fishing, and picnicking in these numerous green spaces, and many of the parks offer sports fields as well as regular community events.
The neighborhood also features some tasty dishes, and ZaZa’s elegant Italian cuisine is a local favorite. For a more casual stop, visit Brama La Pizza. Or pop into one of Clarendon Hill’s two nearby breweries – Alter Brewing Company and More Brewing Company.
Schools in Clarendon Hills
The top schools serving Clarendon Hills include Seton Montessori School, Clarendon Hills Middle School, and Hinsdale Central High School among others.
Homes in Clarendon Hills
Clarendon Hills is an affluent suburb with house prices often ranging in the $400 thousands. Most residents are homeowners in the neighborhood.
Evanston
With an abundance of green spaces, picnic areas, and local restaurants this beautiful town offers lovely places to go with the whole family. Evanston is about a 30 minute drive north of downtown Chicago. Its streets are tree-laden, and its parks are full of children and families playing or going for walks by the lake.
Evanston has an urban feel with easy access to downtown. And because the area caters to the younger residents attending Northwestern University, there’s plenty of events, shops, and local things to do. And Evanston’s safety, diversity, good schools, and affordability draw people from all different walks of life.
Things to do in Evanston
Our favorite nearby outdoor space in Evanston is the unique Skokie Lagoons. Grab a fishing pole and float down the 894 acres of marshes. The beautiful Gilson Park shows off its lakefront beaches and has watersport opportunities. And Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park against the north channel of the Chicago River is open year-round and offers group touring and picnic areas, as well as paths for cycling and jogging.
Locals of Evanston are set up right when it comes to great food. From the elegant American fare at The Stained Glass to the pub grub at Peckish Pig. One of our favorite spots is the modern Ten Mile House and its large menu of mouthwatering American comfort food and a generous drink menu. Tapas Barcelona serves up savory Spanish cuisine and sangria. And the stylish Found Kitchen and Social House serves shared plates of creative recipes and drink concoctions while regularly hosting innovative events.
Schools in Evanston
The top schools serving Evanston include Dewey Elementary School, Haven Middle School, and Evanston Twp High School among others.
Homes in Evanston
Stone-clad mansions, quaint single-family houses, preserved historic homes, and luxe condos – Evanston’s housing is diverse in style, price, and size.
Naperville
About a 45 minute drive west of downtown Chicago, this charming town regularly ranks as one of the top places to live. With excellent schools, low crime rates, four forest preserves, and the best public library system in the country, Naperville has a small-town feel with all the amenities of the city.
Things to do in Naperville
One of the perks of being a Napervillian is having the space to spread out in its many world-class parks. Blackwell Forest Preserve is at the top of the list with boat rentals, camping, tubing, picnic sites, and 9 miles of trails. The Naperville Riverwalk is another favorite outdoor activity, with its chain of paths and bridges that follow the DuPage River. Or play some pickup volleyball at the Centennial Beach aquatic park.
For a look into Naperville’s history and culture, visit the stunning and ornate Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago. Or explore The Naper Settlement outdoor museum that outlines the town’s history as a 19th-century pioneer outpost.
If you’ve ever eaten your way to the end of a sushi roll and wished for 99 more, Raku Sushi Gourmet and their 100 different kinds of sushi has your back. The White Chocolate Grill, though mostly known for their signature desserts, also offers thoughtful entrees featuring fresh fish, in-house-ground chuck burgers, and smoky steaks.
For casual dining, visit Sharko’s BBQ. This classic BBQ shop makes delicious meat-focused meals including juicy, rubbed meats that have been smoked for 12-20 hours. Or check out the downtown seafood hot-spot, Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House, that serves eclectic drinks and dishes like their 50-day dry-aged Black Angus steak.
Homes in Naperville
Naperville is known best for its character-rich homes in the town’s historic district. But there are plenty of different styles and prices to chose from.
There you have it: the best suburbs of Chicago!
We hope this was helpful, and if you decide to take the plunge, don’t hesitate to reach out to your friends here at Bellhop. Need to move quickly? We also provide last minute moving services in Chicago!
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