Top 7 Best Chicago Suburbs for Families (2023)

Chicago has long been a beloved destination for families in Illinois, with its renowned cuisine, lively music scene, and distinctive architecture. If you’re looking for the perfect Chicago suburb to raise your family, we’ve compiled a list of the top seven options to help you make an informed decision.

7 Best Chicago Suburbs for Families

Clarendon Hills

Clarendon Hills is undoubtedly the best Chicago suburb for families. Situated just 20 miles west of downtown Chicago, this suburb is renowned for its exceptional schools, secure neighbourhoods, and close-knit community. The population of Clarendon Hills is around 8,625, and all residents enjoy a wide variety of housing options, beautiful parks, and easy access to Chicago. The suburb boasts a lively downtown area, home to an exciting array of local businesses, restaurants, cafes, and shops. With an average per capita income of $68k, Clarendon Hills is the top choice for families looking to settle down in suburban Chicago.

Long Grove

Long Grove is an excellent suburb of Chicago that is perfect for families. It is approximately 35 miles northwest of downtown Chicago and home to about 8,308 people. If you prefer a tranquil area with a rich history, Long Grove is ideal. The city is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, historic homes and buildings, and charming downtown area. Additionally, Long Grove boasts several parks and nature preserves that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular ones include the Reed-Turner Woodland Nature Preserve, Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, and the Spring Lake Nature Preserve. Long Grove also hosts several family-friendly events, such as the Long Grove Strawberry Festival, Apple Fest, and Chocolate Fest. With high per capita income rates and an active local community, it’s no wonder that Long Grove is the second-most desirable suburb for Chicago families.

Naperville

Naperville, one of Chicago’s top suburbs, is located approximately 33 miles west of downtown. It boasts a total circumference of 39.08 miles and a bustling population of just over 149,000 people, making it the fifth-largest city in Illinois and an ideal spot for those seeking proper urban living. The city is renowned for its diverse local parks, exceptional school systems, and thriving downtown district. Along with the area’s high per capita income rate, low crime rate, and affordable home prices, Naperville is a well-rounded option for Chicago families.

Buffalo Grove

Buffalo Grove is a fantastic Chicago suburb for families who value a tight-knit community. Situated approximately 35 miles from downtown Chicago, this suburb boasts exceptional schools, secure neighbourhoods, and a wealth of recreational opportunities. However, what truly sets Buffalo Grove apart is its dedication to creating a family-oriented atmosphere. Its residents have access to many wholesome entertainment and activities, ranging from hiking through Buffalo Creek Nature Preserve to exploring the locally owned businesses in the downtown area to revelling in the annual Buffalo Grove Days festival. With its abundance of offerings, it’s no surprise that many families choose Buffalo Grove as their preferred Chicago suburb.

Western Springs

Western Springs is one of the best suburbs in Chicago and one of the wealthiest. The city, located about 20 miles from the heart of Chicago, has a close-knit community of just over 13,000 people. The residents are attracted to Western Springs for its excellent quality of life. It boasts several well-maintained parks, exceptional school districts, and a charming downtown area. Despite being close to Chicago, the city offers a peaceful small-town atmosphere. The average per capita income rate here is $87k, which makes it an ideal location for those who prefer an upscale lifestyle.

Hinsdale

Hinsdale, located about 21 miles west of downtown Chicago, is a thriving community widely recognized as one of the best suburbs to raise a family. With its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and strong local community, Hinsdale has nearly 17,000 residents who enjoy a high quality of life. The area boasts local farmers’ markets, summer concert series, and holiday walks, providing everything residents need for a fulfilling lifestyle. The downtown district is exceptionally bustling, with many restaurants, cafes, and shopping centres, including the Hinsdale Mall and the Oakbrook Center. If you’re looking for a picturesque living situation in one of the best suburbs of Chicago, Hinsdale should not be overlooked.

Evanston

If you’re looking for quick access to Chicago, Evanston is the best suburb to consider. Locatingn just 14 miles from downtown, it offers the most effortless commute of any suburb on the list. But this area has more to offer than just convenience. Evanston boasts highly-rated school systems, a rich history, and beautiful natural surroundings, making it an attractive option for families. And with Lake Michigan just a stone’s throw away, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beaches and other recreational activities. All of these factors contribute to Evanston’s reputation as one of the best suburbs in Chicago.

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