Choosing a place to raise a family can impact the way a child 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 Cook 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. 19, 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 Cook County.” Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.
Here are the top 10 best places to raise a family in Cook County, according to Niche:
1. Western Springs
- Average home value: $680,900
- Population: 13,557
Western Springs includes two recreational centers, a public pool and a library. Families enjoy excellent schools and parks, too.
2. Barrington
- Average home value: $543,700
- Population: 11,244
Barrington, a charming suburb northwest of Chicago, is known for its excellent schools, outdoor activities and strong community feel. This family-friendly village offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a desirable place to live.
3. Northbrook
- Average home value: $621,600
- Population: 34,950
Northbrook has excellent schools as well as family activity hotspots like the Ed Rudolph Velodrome, the Chicago Curling Club and the Northbrook Public Library.
4. Wilmette
- Average home value: $771,500
- Population: 27,801
Families in Wilmette have easy access to two beaches the Wilmette Park District owns and manages on the Village’s eastern border along Lake Michigan. The village has highly rated schools and outdoor activities.
5. Kenilworth
- Average home value: $1,358,000
- Population: 2,537
Kenilworth, a town on the shores of Lake Michigan, earns the top spot in Cook County for its stellar public schools, safety and outdoor activities. This affluent suburb is ranked as an excellent place to raise a family.
6. Glenview
- Average home value: $529,500
- Population: 48,150
Historic Glenview offers families access to 34 parks and playgrounds covering more than 290 acres as well as top rated public schools.
7. Winnetka
- Average home value: $1,192,600
- Population: 12,607
Winnetka offers families excellent school options. Some neighborhoods in the southern part of Winnetka are served by Avoca School District 37, and high school students in the area attend New Trier High School.
8. South Barrington
- Average home value: $891,700
- Population: 5,001
This town boasts excellent public schools, and the majority reside in Barrington District 220. A small portion of South Barrington is served by District 300, District 15 and Township High School District 211.
9. River Forest
- Average home value: $668,900
- Population: 11,568
River Forest, a picturesque suburb just west of Chicago, is known for its excellent schools, historic homes and tree-lined streets. This vibrant and family-oriented community offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
10. Riverside
- Average home value: $668,900
- Population:11,568
Riverside, a historic suburb just west of Chicago, is celebrated for its unique design by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, featuring winding streets and abundant green spaces.
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