Let’s face it. Buying a home in Chicago can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time. The process is scary and deadlines are stressful.
Everyone feels overwhelmed by the financial commitment because it’s a lot of money to spend on one thing. Plus, there’s the question of whether to stay in the city or explore the surrounding suburbs.
But don’t worry, the Ben Lalez Team has your back! We’ve helped over a thousand families move homes over the last decade, so we’re very passionate about real estate in Chicago and its suburbs.
So which suburbs should you consider in 2025? Here’s our honest take on the top 10 suburbs that offer good value, great communities, and that special something that makes a place feel like home.
1. Naperville
Naperville keeps showing up on “best places to live” lists for good reason. The Riverwalk is gorgeous and gives the downtown a unique feel you just don’t find in most suburbs.
The community here is strong. You’ll notice it right away when you visit the local restaurants, shops, and summer festivals. Everywhere feels buzzing with activity, but not in an overwhelming way.
While we could talk about the excellent schools (Districts 203 and 204 rank among Illinois’ best) or the convenient Metra BNSF line, what our clients actually fall in love with is the lifestyle. You get plenty of space and safety while still having tons to do on weekends without driving into the city.
Homes here do sell for more than some other suburbs (median price around $523,000), and the average days on market is 44 days. This tells us buyers recognize the value despite the higher price point.
2. Downers Grove
Downtown Downers Grove just clicks with people. The historic Tivoli Theater still shows movies. Local restaurants have patios filled with people enjoying dinner on summer evenings. The farmers market brings everyone out on weekend mornings.
The community here is super friendly. Neighbors actually talk to each other. Block parties happen regularly. Kids ride bikes between houses. It’s that neighborhood feel that many people miss from their own childhoods.
For commuters, Downers Grove sits on the BNSF Metra line with express trains reaching Chicago in about 30 minutes. But honestly, many residents find themselves heading into the city less often than they expected because there’s so much to enjoy locally.
Homes here sell for around $469,000 median price, and they typically stay on market for just over 50 days. This gives buyers some breathing room to make decisions without the crazy competition of hotter markets.
3. Oak Park
Oak Park is special. There’s just no other way to put it. Sitting right next to Chicago’s west side, it feels like a small town with big city access.
Architecture buffs love Oak Park for Frank Lloyd Wright’s influence. His studio is here, along with many homes he designed. But there’s so much more to the community than just great buildings.
The streets are packed with small businesses that have real character. Bookstores where the owners recommend their favorite reads. Coffee shops where they remember your order. Restaurants where the chef might stop by your table. It feels personal in a way many places don’t anymore.
Events happen year-round. Art festivals take over the streets in summer. Farmers markets run weekly. Holiday festivals bring everyone out in winter. There’s always something happening that brings the community together.
Transit couldn’t be easier. Both CTA and Metra serve Oak Park, putting downtown just 20 minutes away. Many people walk to stations since the community is very walkable.
Homes here sell for about $430,000 median price, which gets you way more space and character than the same money in Chicago. For the location and community, it’s a pretty good deal.
4. Evanston
Evanston is Chicago’s cool northern neighbor. With Northwestern University anchoring the community, it has energy you don’t find in most suburbs.
The food scene here is amazing. From cheap eats to special occasion restaurants, Evanston has it all. The lakefront adds another dimension with beaches and parks that make summer weekends feel like vacation.
What’s cool about Evanston is how different areas have different vibes. The lakefront has historic mansions. Downtown has modern condos. There are quiet tree-lined streets with single-family homes and bustling areas with apartments above shops. You can find your fit here.
Getting downtown is simple with both CTA and Metra options taking about 25 minutes. But many Evanston residents find they don’t head to Chicago as often as they thought they would. There’s just too much good stuff happening locally.
The housing market is steady with median prices around $431,000 and homes typically selling in about 38 days. This shows strong demand without the pressure-cooker feel of some markets.
5. Arlington Heights
Arlington Heights has really come into its own in recent years. The downtown area around the Metra station has transformed from sleepy to exciting.
The restaurant scene keeps growing with everything from casual spots to nice date-night options. The entertainment options include live music venues and summer festivals. The village puts real effort into creating community events that bring people together.
Everyone’s talking about what’s happening with the old Arlington Park racecourse property. The massive redevelopment will bring even more options to the area in coming years. The village is forward-thinking about how to grow while keeping its character.
Schools are excellent (District 214 consistently ranks among Illinois’ best), but most families we work with are equally excited about the park system and recreation opportunities. There’s a good balance of organized activities and natural spaces.
Homes in Arlington Heights sell for a median price of about $500,000, typically moving in around 48 days. This price point gets you significantly more space than in Chicago while staying in a community with plenty going on.
6. Buffalo Grove
Buffalo Grove is where your dollar stretches further. The homes are generally newer than in some other suburbs, often with more modern layouts and features that today’s buyers want.
What makes this community stand out is its diversity. Buffalo Grove welcomes everyone, creating a rich community where different cultures and traditions are celebrated. This shows up in local restaurants, community events, and the overall welcoming vibe.
While there’s no traditional downtown, Buffalo Grove makes up for it with amazing parks and recreation facilities. The Buffalo Grove Park District runs top-notch programs for all ages. The extensive bike paths and green spaces make outdoor living easy.
Schools perform well above state averages. Parts of Buffalo Grove feed into Stevenson High School, one of Illinois’ best, while Buffalo Grove High School itself has strong programs and outcomes.
Here’s the best part – the median home price is about $360,000, making Buffalo Grove one of the most affordable options on our list. Homes typically sell in just over two months, giving buyers more time to consider options than in some faster markets.
7. La Grange
La Grange feels like small-town America dropped right into the Chicago suburbs. The downtown area has that Main Street charm that’s hard to find these days.
Local shops line the streets around the Metra station. The historic Tivoli Theater still draws crowds. Restaurants have sidewalk seating in warm weather. Ice cream shops have lines out the door on summer evenings. It just feels right.
The community really comes together for events like the Pet Parade, summer arts festivals, and holiday celebrations. These aren’t just things on a calendar – they’re traditions that families look forward to year after year.
Many homes are within walking distance of downtown, which creates a true neighborhood feel. Kids can bike to get ice cream. Parents can walk to dinner. It’s the kind of lifestyle that makes suburban living appealing.
La Grange homes sell for a median price of about $440,000, typically moving in around 6 weeks. This strong demand shows how much people value the community La Grange has created.
8. Park Ridge
Park Ridge sits right at Chicago’s northwestern edge, giving you that suburban feel with city convenience. This is Hillary Clinton’s hometown, and it still has that classic American neighborhood vibe.
The downtown area (they call it “Uptown”) has been beautifully developed with local restaurants, shops, and the iconic Pickwick Theatre. On nice evenings, it feels like the whole town is out enjoying the area.
The neighborhoods here are gorgeous. Tree-lined streets feature a mix of historic homes and newer construction, all impeccably maintained. People take real pride in their properties and it shows when you drive around.
Location is a huge selling point. Park Ridge borders Chicago, and the Metra UP-NW line gets you downtown in about 30 minutes. O’Hare is nearby too, which is perfect for frequent travelers or those working at the airport.
Homes in Park Ridge sell for a median price of about $530,000, typically moving in under two months. This price reflects the premium location and quality of life, but it’s still reasonable compared to some North Shore communities.
9. Orland Park
Orland Park gives you room to breathe. This southwest suburb offers larger lots, bigger homes, and more space than you’ll find closer to the city.
The lifestyle here is comfortable. Streets are wider, traffic is lighter, and parking is plentiful. You don’t have to fight crowds to enjoy shopping at Orland Square Mall or dining at the many restaurants.
Outdoor spaces are a big plus. With over 60 parks, miles of bike trails, and beautiful forest preserves nearby, getting outside is easy. The village runs great recreation programs with activities for everyone from toddlers to seniors.
Schools perform well above state averages, with Carl Sandburg High School consistently ranking among Illinois’ best public high schools. This makes Orland Park popular with families looking for quality education.
The real highlight is affordability. The median home price in Orland Park is just $337,000, one of the lowest on our list. Homes take longer to sell here (almost 3 months on average), which means buyers can take their time and have more choices.
10. Wheaton
Wheaton might surprise you with its personality and charm.
Having Wheaton College in town makes a big difference. It brings cultural events, youthful energy, and a certain intellectual vibe to the community. The downtown area feels alive with students and locals mixing at coffee shops, restaurants, and the popular French Market on Saturdays.
One thing that stands out is the Illinois Prairie Path running through town. This converted rail line gives miles of paved trails for biking, running, or walking. You can go for hours without crossing a major road. It’s perfect for active families.
The community hosts events year-round that bring people together. Summer concerts, art festivals, holiday celebrations – there’s always something happening that makes it easy to meet neighbors and feel connected.
Housing prices are surprisingly reasonable given all Wheaton offers. The median price is about $360,000, which can get you anything from a starter condo to a spacious family home depending on your needs. This accessibility makes Wheaton great for first-time buyers and growing families alike.
Making Your Move
If you’re thinking about leaving the city for more space, you’re not alone. Every year, we help dozens of families find their perfect suburban match.
Each suburb on this list offers something different. What matters most is finding the place that fits your lifestyle, budget, and needs. Some people want a lively downtown, others prioritize outdoor space or schools or commute time.
The good news is that Chicago’s suburbs offer incredible variety and value compared to many other major metro areas. You can find your perfect fit without compromising what matters most to you.
Ready to explore these communities? Give us a shout and let’s explore which Chicago suburb might be right for you! And if you’re buying for the first time, make sure to download our Chicago Home Buying Guide.