For prospective buyers, choosing the right neighborhood is one of life’s biggest decisions. Niche, a trusted resource for community rankings and statistics, offers a helpful ranking of the best places to buy a home, making the search a bit easier.
These statistics were calculated based on home values, taxes, crime rates and quality of local schools. Data for these categories come from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC and other data sources. You can find the full methodology here.
Below, we share how towns in Cook County rank based on this list. These rankings consider key factors like property values, tax rates, safety and school quality.
This story was updated on Nov. 13, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. Her work included updating based off the 2024 Niche rankings and adding a graphic. Questions? Please email katina@chicagoparent.com.
Best places to buy a home in Cook County
1. Barrington
- Average home value: $543,700
- Population: 11,244
Barrington is known for its charming downtown, offering boutique shopping and dining, and its scenic parks and forest preserves. Families appreciate the highly-rated schools and vibrant community events that make this village a welcoming place to call home.
2. Western Springs
- Average home value: $680,900
- Population: 13,557
Western Springs includes two recreational centers, a public pool and a library. Residents enjoy excellent schools and parks, too.
3. Inverness
- Average home value: $699,400
- Population: 7,722
The historic village of Inverness is an exceptionally safe community. It earns an “A+” from Niche in the categories for schools, safety and “good for families.”
4. Orland Hills
- Average home value: $245,300
- Population: 6,842
Nearby nature preserves as well as Centennial Park give homeowners in this community easy access to beautiful outdoor spaces.
5. Indian Head Park
- Average home value: $322,400
- Population: 4,022
This suburb of Chicago earns an A+ from Niche in the public schools and “good for families” categories. It also ranks highly for outdoor activity options.
6. Riverside
- Average home value: $471,100
- Population: 9,225
Riverside boasts historic architecture, lush parks and a close-knit community feel. Designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the village features winding streets and abundant green spaces.
7. Lemont
- Average home value: $445,000
- Population: 17,558
With its picturesque downtown and proximity to world class nature preserves, Lemont is an ideal place for those looking for a home with a charming backdrop.
8. Arlington Heights
- Average home value: $396,500
- Population: 76,794
Arlington Heights provides residents with many cafes, restaurants, parks and more. It scores highly in the public school and “good for families” categories from Niche.
9. Homewood
- Average home value: $192,600
- Population: 19,868
Homewood is celebrated for its friendly neighborhoods, thriving arts scene, and variety of community events. Residents enjoy well-maintained parks, excellent school, and a bustling downtown filled with local shops and eateries.
10. Northbrook
- Average home value: $621,600
- Population: 34,950
Northbrook is known for its top-rated schools, expansive parks, and vibrant shopping and dining options. Families appreciate the well-kept neighborhoods, abundant recreational facilities and numerous community events.
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