Chicagoland offers an abundance of family-friendly suburbs, but narrowing down the perfect place to call home can be a challenge.
Niche, a trusted site known for its rankings and data on towns and schools, recently released its 2024 list of the Best Places to Raise a Family in the Chicago Area. This ranking considers several factors, including school quality, crime rates, age demographics, affordable housing, and proximity to essentials like childcare, libraries and grocery stores.
This article was updated on Oct. 1, 2024, by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. Her work included adding the 2024 Niche rankings for the “Best Places to Raise a Family in Chicagoland.” Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.
Best Chicagoland Suburbs to Raise a Family
1. Long Grove
- Average home value: $721,000
- Area: Northwest Suburbs
- Population: 8,279
Long Grove is a charming little town that’s 35 miles from Chicago. According to Niche, it is ranked as the No. 1 best place to raise a family in Illinois and places with the best public schools in Illinois.
2. Clarendon Hills
- Average home value: $570,600
- Area: Western Suburbs
- Population: 8,658
Tucked away in the Western Suburbs, Clarendon Hills gives a small-town feel with its tight-knit community. You can also find plenty of restaurants and shops in the downtown area.
3. Kildeer
- Average home value: $683,900
- Area: Northwest Suburbs
- Population: 4,133
Not only is Killdeer a great place to raise a family, but it also was ranked No. 2 on the Best Suburbs to Buy a House in Illinois.
4. Hinsdale
- Average home value: $962,700
- Area: Western Suburbs
- Population: 17,169
As the largest town on this top 10 list, Hinsdale has also been known for its education. The public schools are ranked as No. 4 in the Places with the Best Public Schools in Illinois.
5. Riverwoods
- Average home value: $776,900
- Area: North Suburbs
- Population: 4,007
With its large, spacious homes and easy access to nature preserves, Riverwoods is perfect for families who appreciate outdoor activities and scenic surroundings. The village is known for its commitment to preserving its natural environment, which adds to its charm and appeal.
Looking for other areas to move in Chicagoland? Check out these stories:
- Best Places to Raise a Family in Cook County
- Best Places to Raise a Family in DuPage County
- Best Places to Raise a Family in Lake County
6. Naperville
- Average home value: $433,400
- Area: Western Suburbs
- Population: 149,013
Naperville boasts many parks and forest preserves, including popular Centennial Beach. It earns an “A+” from Niche for excellent public schools.
7. Western Springs
- Average home value: $680,900
- Area: Western Suburbs
- Population: 13,557
The historic landmarks and beautiful parks make Western Springs a quaint town. Any family would love to spend time outdoors at the 12 public parks.
8. Barrington
- Average home value: $543,700
- Area: North Suburbs
- Population: 11,244
Situated in the northwest suburbs, Barrington is known for its spacious homes, scenic landscapes, and vibrant village center. With top-rated schools and abundant parks, it’s a popular choice for families seeking a balance of suburban living and outdoor activities.
9. Buffalo Grove
- Average home value: $380,700
- Area: North Suburbs
- Population: 42,934
Exciting festivals, shopping districts, activity centers and more are located in Buffalo Grove, a town with one of the highest rated school districts in the country.
10. Vernon Hills
- Average home value: $370,700
- Area: North Suburbs
- Population: 26,750
Living in Vernon Hills offers residents an urban suburban mix feel and most residents own their homes. Excellent parks and schools make it a good choice for any family.
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