Choosing a place to raise a family can impact the way a child grows up and sees the world.
Niche, a website offering rankings and statistics on towns, schools and colleges, also publishes a ranking of the best places to raise a family. See the rankings below to find out how towns in Lake County stack up.
These statistics were calculated based on public schools, crime rates, cost of living, and family-friendly amenities. Data for these categories come from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC and other data sources. You can find the full methodology here.
This article was updated on Sept. 6, 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 DuPage County.” Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.
Here are the top 10 best places to raise a family in Lake County on the list:
1. Long Grove
- Average home value: $721,000
- Population: 8,279
This suburb of Chicago scores an “A+” in both the “public schools” and “good for families” categories from Niche. Long Grove’s parks and festivals are a huge draw for families.
2. Kildeer
- Average home value: $683,900
- Population: 4,1,33
Kildeer’s rural feel provides residents a tranquil place to raise a family. Schools are top rated; Lake Zurich High School and Adlai E. Stevenson High School are the two choices for high schools.
3. Riverwoods
- Average home value: $776,900
- Population: 4,007
Picturesque nature conservations, botanic gardens and waterfront walks make Riverwoods an excellent choice for a family looking to spend time outdoors.
4. Buffalo Grove
- Average home value: $380,700
- 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.
5. Vernon Hills
- Average home value: $370,700
- 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.
Looking for more of the best places to move in the Chicago metro area? Check out these stories:
- Best Places to Live in Chicagoland
- Best Suburbs to Raise a Family in Chicagoland
- Most Affordable Places to Live in Chicagoland
6. Tower Lakes
- Average home value: $483,800
- Population: 1,282
This picturesque town offers families highly rated schools, safe neighborhoods and tons of outdoor activities.
7. Hawthorn Woods
- Average home value: $580,400
- Population: 9,111
Rich in natural beauty, Hawthorn Woods boasts attractive parks, nature centers and lakes. Schools are highly rated as well.
8. Deerfield
- Average home value: $594,000
- Population: 19,173
Deerfield offers a suburban feel and the area is popular for its top-rated schools, extensive park system and convenient access to nearby shopping and dining.
9. North Barrington
- Average home value: $675,700
- Population: 3,119
North Barrington scores an “A+” in both the “public schools” and “good for families” categories from Niche. The civic centered community has many shopping, restaurant and cafe options.
10. Lincolnshire
- Average home value: $598,100
- Population: 7,907
This suburb of Chicago scores an “A+” in both the “public schools” and “good for families” categories from Niche. Lincolnshire has an urban feel and most residents own their homes.
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