Looking for the best places to live in Chicagoland? Whether you’re relocating, starting a family or just searching for a better community fit, finding the right suburb or neighborhood can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Niche, a trusted source for data-driven rankings on schools, towns, and colleges, has released its annual list of the best places to live in the Chicago area.
These rankings are based on key factors that matter most to families and individuals, including public school quality, safety (crime rates), cost of living, and access to family-friendly amenities. Data is compiled from reputable sources like the U.S. Census Bureau, FBI, Bureau of Labor Statistics and CDC.
Check out the top-rated Chicagoland towns below — and see which communities truly stand out. View full methodology here.
Here are the top 10 best places to live in Chicagoland on the list:
1. Naperville
- Average home value: $509,900
- Population: 149,089
Naperville is home to many parks and forest preserves, including popular Centennial Beach. It earns an “A+” from Niche for excellent public schools.
2. Clarendon Hills
- Average home value: $595,500
- Population: 8,642
This suburb is very safe, offers an easy commute and has excellent public schools options. Clarendon Hills has a station on Metra’s BNSF Line, providing daily transit between Aurora, Illinois and Chicago, too.
3. Hinsdale
- Average home value: $999,100
- Population: 17,155
The affluent suburb of Hinsdale offers residents excellent public schools, outdoor activities and jobs options. Hinsdale’s downtown area is a National Register Historic District.
4. Vernon Hills
- Average home value: $384,800
- Population: 26,772
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 anyone looking for a safe place to call home.
5. Kildeer
- Average home value: $683,900
- Population: 4,133
Kildeer’s rural feel provides residents with a tranquil feel. Schools are top rated; Lake Zurich High School and Adlai E. Stevenson High School are the two choices for high schools for those with families
6. Lincolnshire
- Average home value: $625,800
- Population: 7,937
This safe 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.
7. Evanston
- Average home value: $472,300
- Population: 76,552
Evanston is lucky to have six public swimming beaches, plus excellent athletic fields, playgrounds and community gardens.
8. Buffalo Grove
- Average home value: $392,900
- Population: 42,824
Buffalo Grove is an exciting place to raise a family. Hang out in the park and listen to a concert, shop locally at a farmers market or visit the local shops in the downtown core in this safe suburb.
9. Long Grove
- Average home value: $746,700
- Population: 8,266
With a historic downtown often abuzz with exciting festivals and special events, Long Grove is a great choice for those looking for a quiet life without compromising on fun.
10. Northbrook
- Average home value: $644,100
- Population: 34,642
Safety in Northbrook is a priority—from the city’s historic downtown to its many walking and hiking paths.
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