Finding the right Chicago suburb for your family can be tricky, almost like searching for a needle in a haystack.

The ARG Team has studied school districts, crime rates, and family amenities in the best Chicago suburbs, making your search easier. We spoke to many local families and visited several neighborhoods. Our goal was to find the best Chicago suburbs that offer a great mix of safety, education, and lifestyle.

These 10 suburbs stand out for their excellent schools, fun family activities, and high quality of life. Your perfect suburban home near Chicago is ready for you. Do you want great schools? Spacious parks? Or a friendly community? It has it all!

This piece will guide you through the options that match your family’s needs.

Naperville

Naperville is one of Chicago’s finest suburbs and ranks as the #1 Best City in America for Raising a Family.

Naperville School Districts and Rankings

Two outstanding districts—District 203 and District 204—are responsible for the city’s educational excellence. Both districts stand out nationally. District 204 is ranked #29, while District 203 is #41. They excel among thousands of public school districts in the U.S.

Here’s a glimpse of Naperville’s educational achievements:

• Kennedy Junior High ranks as the #1 middle school in Illinois
• Graham Elementary holds the #2 position statewide
• All but one of these high schools place in Illinois’ top 25, with Neuqua Valley leading at #10

Naperville Family Activities and Parks

The city boasts a fantastic selection of family entertainment options. The DuPage Children’s Museum captivates children with interactive exhibits that blend science, art, and hands-on learning. The historic Centennial Beach, a transformed quarry, creates perfect summer memories for families.

Family-friendly spots include:

• Ball Factory Indoor Playground – with its 4-level play structure and interactive zones
• Naper Settlement – a 12-acre outdoor museum with interactive historical exhibits
• The scenic Riverwalk – perfect for family strolls and outdoor activities

Naperville Housing Market Overview

Naperville’s real estate market reflects its status as a top family destination. The housing market shows promising growth potential through 2029. Naperville offers stability, excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities. This makes it a top choice for families considering Chicago suburbs.

The city takes a complete approach to family living. With 26 elementary schools in Illinois’ top 50 and entertainment options from TopGolf to iFly indoor skydiving, Naperville creates a perfect balance between educational excellence and family fun.

Hinsdale

Hinsdale sits in the heart of DuPage County. This wealthy community attracts families. They enjoy the blend of suburban charm and easy access to the city.

Hinsdale Educational Excellence

Hinsdale’s educational system shines as a model of academic excellence. District 181 has done well. Three of its schools are now in Illinois’ top 10. These outstanding schools include:

• Oak School ranking #2 statewide
• Elm School securing #6 position
• The Lane School achieving #8 ranking

The district’s excellence shows in numbers. All seven of its elementary schools rank within the top 34 in Illinois. This achievement proves the district’s consistent quality across all schools.

Hinsdale Community Events and Recreation

The community spirit in Hinsdale truly stands out. The Parks & Recreation Department arranges activities that match residents’ interests throughout the year. The area feels like a small town, but it has modern amenities. It’s just 20 miles west of downtown Chicago.

Families can enjoy many community events including:

• Annual 4th of July Parade and Festival
• Fall Family Festival
• Holiday Express celebrations
• Various seasonal special events

Hinsdale Real Estate Trends

Hinsdale ranks among DuPage County’s most affluent communities. Its housing market attracts families seeking luxury and features grand historic homes and large estates. Market predictions for 2025 in the western suburbs look strong. More city residents are moving to Hinsdale, searching for the perfect mix of suburban living with city-like amenities.

Families love Hinsdale for good reasons. Its quick commute to Chicago, upscale living, and charming downtown area create an ideal suburban lifestyle.

Arlington Heights

Arlington Heights is a lively community. It offers a great mix of quiet suburban life and easy access to city amenities. This makes it one of the best Chicago suburbs for families looking to grow.

Arlington Heights School System

The educational system in Arlington Heights sets high standards with impressive academic achievements. The district educates 5,316 students and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1, which beats the state average. Students show strong academic results:

• 47% of elementary students read at proficient levels
• 74% of students excel in Science
• 55% of students master English Language Arts

The district is devoted to quality education, as shown by its 93% teacher retention rate. Each student receives $16,852 in annual investment.

Arlington Heights Family Entertainment

Families can enjoy a wide range of activities in Arlington Heights. The area features several play spaces, including safe, gated areas where toddlers and babies can explore. Local entertainment spots abound:

The Metropolis Performing Arts Center is a cultural cornerstone, hosting hundreds of annual shows. Arlington Park invites outdoor lovers to enjoy its facilities, including community centers, pools, tennis courts, and playgrounds for all ages.

Lake Arlington adds to the charm with its 50 acres of beautiful water that families love. Downtown has become a lively entertainment spot. You can find great dining options and fun cultural activities there.

Arlington Heights Property Options

The property market in Arlington Heights presents interesting opportunities. Home prices average $364,447; experts expect this to reach $377,871 by 2029.

Families love this suburb because of its excellent public transportation and lively downtown. The housing market offers options for different budgets, from starter homes to luxury properties.

Evanston

Evanston is a vibrant community on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. It combines city style with a calm suburban feel. This vibrant community ranks as the No. 4 Best Suburb to Live in Illinois, and it’s easy to see why.

Evanston Schools and Education

The city’s resilient educational system serves 9,813 students across 19 public schools. Students here excel academically, achieving 40% in math proficiency and 42% in reading proficiency – well above Illinois state averages. Evanston Township High School stands out as the city’s educational pride, ranking 39th in Illinois with an impressive 58% AP participation rate.

Evanston Family-Friendly Attractions

Evanston gives families plenty of entertainment choices. The city’s family spots include:

• Lakefront beaches and parks make perfect family outings
• Evanston Public Library, with its garden-themed reading nook and regular STEM activities
• Historic Firehouse Grill that operates from an early 1900s firehouse
• Merrick Rose Garden showcasing several thousand roses and a Centennial Fountain
• Skyzone Trampoline Park, where families can enjoy active fun together

Evanston Housing Costs

The local housing market shows a median house value of $454,600, while renters can expect a median rent of $1,625. The city’s steadfast dedication to housing growth includes plans to build 7,000 new housing units over the next decade to help with affordability.

Families love the ease of getting around town, thanks to an excellent Walk Score of 76/100 and Bike Score of 89/100. Evanston offers great accessibility, strong schools, and diverse recreation options. This makes it one of Chicago’s most appealing suburbs for families seeking the best.

Oak Park

Oak Park is one of Chicago’s most fascinating suburbs. This historic community blends excellent education with artistic charm, and its rich cultural heritage is evident everywhere.

Oak Park School Districts

The educational system has 11 different institutions – 8 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 high school. The district boasts impressive academic results:

• Horace Mann Elementary ranks 179th in Illinois
• Whittier Elementary holds the 228th position statewide
• William Hatch Elementary sits at 246th in Illinois

Student-teacher ratios range from 9:1 to 13:1 in schools of all sizes. Each student gets the attention they need to succeed.

Oak Park Cultural Activities for Families

Oak Park’s cultural scene buzzes with activity. The area proudly showcases several historic landmarks. The Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum and the Frank Lloyd Wright Birthplace Museum offer creative educational programs, allowing K-12 students to experience history up close and personal.

The Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest, a 55-year-old institution, has a unique space for kids. The community’s calendar includes annual family events, including holiday fun and learning workshops.

Oak Park Real Estate Market

The housing market tells an interesting story. Home prices now average $405,377, and experts predict a slight bump to $410,612 by 2029. Recent trends show:

• 53% of homes sold below listing price
• Houses typically sell in 27 days
• Each square foot costs $238

The market’s strength shows its 16.5% value increase from last year. Oak Park’s rising values, rich culture, and strong schools make it a top choice. It’s one of Chicago’s best suburbs for families who want history, culture, and community spirit.

Downers Grove

Our trip through Chicago’s finest suburbs led us to Downers Grove. The town stands out with its welcoming community spirit and high education, recreation, and housing standards.

Downers Grove Education System

Downers Grove’s educational excellence shines through two notable districts. District 58 serves 4,918 students across 13 schools. District 99’s high schools have earned “laudable” designations from the Illinois State Board of Education. The numbers tell an impressive story:

• Students score higher than state averages, with 525.4 in SAT English and 532.5 in SAT Math
• District 58 boasts a strong 93% teacher retention rate
• 62% of teachers have earned master’s degrees or higher

Downers Grove Family Recreation

The community’s Recreation Center serves as the lifeblood of family entertainment. This 69,000-square-foot facility provides detailed amenities that residents of all ages enjoy. The center includes:

• A 5,200-square-foot full-service Fitness Center
• Three group exercise studios
• A 19,800-square-foot gymnasium that adapts to multiple sports

Nature lovers will find remarkable spots like McCollum Park, which features a 1.2-mile winding trail. Patriots Park offers more outdoor fun. It has excellent fishing spots and well-equipped playgrounds for kids.

Downers Grove Housing Overview

The housing market in Downers Grove shows a strong commitment to variety. Residents can choose from options that fit different life stages and income levels. The community focuses on:

• Quality homes with diverse styles
• Protection of historic housing
• Neighborhoods that promote walking and community

Homes near downtown and schools are in high demand. The town works hard to build lively, welcoming neighborhoods and values its historic buildings. This focus makes it one of the best suburbs of Chicago for families seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Buffalo Grove

Buffalo Grove is a top pick among Chicago’s northern suburbs. Families love it for its great schools and fun activities.

Buffalo Grove Schools Rating

The educational landscape in Buffalo Grove is exceptional, with 67% of residents holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. The school system shows remarkable results:

• Buffalo Grove High School ranks among the top 50 schools in Illinois
• Students achieve an impressive 55% AP participation rate, with 80% scoring 3 or higher
• A student-teacher ratio of 18:1 gives students personal attention
• Students perform well above expectations with a 90.5% percentile score on state assessments

Buffalo Grove Family Amenities

Buffalo Grove offers a variety of family entertainment options. The Spray ‘N Play facility, one of the largest in the area, features 20 water toys and fountains. Hot Ground Gym is a lively place for kids aged 5-14. It features fun programs like obstacle courses and team-building activities.

Families can enjoy extensive recreational facilities, including:

• Mike Rylko Community Park with interactive water features
• Multiple sports centers and fitness facilities
• Year-round family entertainment programs
• Seasonal community events and activities

Buffalo Grove Property Market

The real estate market in Buffalo Grove shows strong investment potential. The median home price is $400,000, and the cost per square foot is $226. The market has shown a 9.5% increase from the previous year.

The current market presents good opportunities for families. 54.5% of homes are sold below asking price, and houses stay on the market for an average of 23 days, suggesting a balanced and active real estate environment.

Clarendon Hills

Clarendon Hills is a hidden gem in Chicago’s western suburbs. It combines small-town charm with the perks of big-city living. This tight-knit community stands out for its excellent schools and lively activities.

Clarendon Hills Education Options

District 181’s remarkable achievements make the educational system genuinely exceptional. The district has placed three elementary schools in Illinois’ top 10. The local schools have achieved impressive rankings:

• Prospect Elementary ranks 15th statewide
• Walker School holds 16th position
• Clarendon Hills Middle School earned the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School recognition.

The middle school’s excellence shines through its innovative learning environment, which develops the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally.

Clarendon Hills Community Activities

The Clarendon Hills Park District is vital for family fun. It offers great programs for all. Children aged 6 months to 6 years can join specialized programs that encourage early development through structured activities.

The “Dancin’ in the Street” summer series brings families together every Wednesday evening with live music and entertainment. The Park District’s activities include:

• American Red Cross Safety Classes
• Summer Camps
• STEAM Programs
• Voice and Guitar lessons

Clarendon Hills Real Estate

The local housing market presents a great investment opportunity. Property values remain strong, with a median sold price of $667,500 and homes spending an average of 31 days on the market. The market’s strength shows that 80% of homes sold within 30 days.

Recent price trends show significant growth across different property sizes:

• 1-bedroom homes: 11.5% increase
• 2-bedroom homes: 9.8% increase
• 3-bedroom homes: 22% increase

Western Springs

Western Springs stands out as a community where an astounding 99% of residents rate it as an excellent or good place to live. This affluent suburb boasts a median household income of $198,836. The area shines with exceptional educational standards and strong community values.

Western Springs School Excellence

Western Springs School District 101 provides a detailed educational system that serves 1,466 students across four schools. Students benefit from an impressive 12:1 student-teacher ratio, which sits well below state averages. The academic achievements speak volumes:

• Forest Hills Elementary ranks #7 in Illinois
• Field Park Elementary secures #54 statewide
• The Lane School achieves #89 in Illinois

The district’s commitment shows through its staff, as 100% of teachers are licensed. This dedication to educational excellence sets the district apart.

Western Springs Family Living

Life in Western Springs offers excellent family-oriented amenities and activities. Families can enjoy two recreational centers and a public pool. The community’s love for outdoor spaces is reflected in the numbers – 95% of residents rate local parks as excellent or good.

The village buzzes with activity throughout the year. Seasonal festivals and community events bring people together. Safety remains a top priority, and the town ranks second for safety in downtown and commercial areas.

Western Springs Housing Market

The housing market presents options in several distinguished neighborhoods. Old Town South tops the price charts with an average sale price of $1,462,500. Meanwhile, the Forest Hills neighborhood leads in market activity with 32 transactions.

Each neighborhood offers unique housing opportunities:

• Timber Trails: Average sale price $1 million
• Foxford Station: Homes averaging $868,000
• Ridge Acres: Properties around $830,000

Families flock to Western Springs because it blends historic landmarks with modern amenities. The area consistently ranks among Illinois’s safest cities, and for good reason.

Long Grove

Let’s take a closer look at Long Grove’s charm. This historic village fascinates visitors with its small-town atmosphere and modern family amenities. Because of its unique heritage and contemporary living blend, it stands out as one of the nicest Chicago suburbs.

Long Grove Educational Facilities

Long Grove’s educational landscape includes multiple distinguished districts. Kildeer Countryside CCSD 96 serves as the central district and shows impressive achievements. Woodlawn Middle School ranks in the top 5% of Illinois middle schools and maintains a stellar five-star rating. Student-teacher ratios are favorable, especially with numbers ranging from 11.8:1 to 15.5:1.

The district shows strong academic performance with:

• 74% Science proficiency rates
• 47% Reading proficiency achievement
• Per-student investment of $18,971 to $19,957 annually

Long Grove Family Entertainment

The vibrant family activities in historic downtown Long Grove create memorable experiences. The area perfectly blends entertainment and cultural experiences. The Rivellino School of Art, located at 350 Old McHenry Road, enriches family recreation by offering creative programs to children aged 4 and older.

Family-friendly venues include:

• Brother’s Field hosts regular movie nights and princess meet-and-greets
• The unique Sock Monkey Museum
• Ma and Pa’s classic candy store
• The newly renovated Covered Bridge Park

Long Grove Property Scene

Long Grove’s housing market offers a variety of options. The community stays charming through careful development, including historic homes and modern residences. The ARG Team loves their focus on keeping the village’s storybook buildings while welcoming growing families.

Property values benefit a lot from the educational environment. Five distinguished school districts serve the area:

Diamond Lake District 76,

Fremont District 79,

Kildeer Countryside District 96,

Mundelein High School District 120,

and Stevenson High School District 125.

Long Grove is a top Chicago suburb for families seeking quality education and a stable home.

Comparison Table

Suburb	School Performance	Notable Family Amenities	Housing Market	Unique Community Features
Naperville	#29 and #41 ranked districts nationally; 26 elementary schools rank in IL top 50	DuPage Children’s Museum, Centennial Beach, Ball Factory Indoor Playground, Riverwalk	Market shows growth potential through 2029 (specific prices not mentioned)	TopGolf, iFly indoor skydiving
Hinsdale	3 schools rank in IL top 10; all but one of these elementary schools place in top 34	Parks & Recreation programs, seasonal festivals	Premium luxury market focus (specific prices not mentioned)	Sits 20 miles west of Chicago with an upscale downtown area
Arlington Heights	Students achieve 47% reading proficiency and 74% science proficiency with 13:1 student-teacher ratio	Metropolis Performing Arts Center, Lake Arlington (50 acres), Arlington Park	Median price: $364,447	Vibrant downtown entertainment district
Evanston	Students show 40% math & 42% reading proficiency; ETHS stands at 39th in IL	Lakefront beaches, Public Library, Skyzone Trampoline Park, Merrick Rose Garden	Median home value: $454,600	Walk Score: 76/100; Bike Score: 89/100
Oak Park	Several schools rank in top 250 in IL with 9:1 to 13:1 student ratio	Ernest Hemingway Museum, Frank Lloyd Wright Museum, Historical Society	Median price: $405,377	Distinguished architectural heritage
Downers Grove	Students exceed state average SAT scores (525.4 English, 532.5 Math)	69,000 sq ft Recreation Center, McCollum Park, Patriots Park	Not mentioned	Teachers show 93% retention rate
Buffalo Grove	School ranks in IL top 50 with 55% AP participation	Spray ‘N Play facility, Hot Ground Gym, Mike Rylko Community Park	Median price: $400,000	67% residents hold bachelor’s degrees
Clarendon Hills	Three elementary schools place in IL top 10 with Blue Ribbon School recognition	“Dancin’ in the Street” series, Park District programs	Median price: $667,500	Market strength shows 80% homes sold within 30 days
Western Springs	Forest Hills Elementary ranks #7 in IL with 12:1 student-teacher ratio	Two recreational centers, public pool, seasonal festivals	Old Town South avg: $1,462,500	Residents report 99% satisfaction rate
Long Grove	Middle schools rank in top 5% in IL with 74% science proficiency	Brother’s Field, Sock Monkey Museum, Covered Bridge Park	Not mentioned	Historic downtown area serves 5 school districts

Conclusion

Chicago’s top suburbs feature great communities that excel in education, family activities, and quality of life. These neighborhoods explain why families love suburban life in Chicago: They offer city convenience and peaceful living.

Educational excellence runs deep in these communities. Naperville and Hinsdale boast nationally ranked school districts. Western Springs and Clarendon Hills shine with high student achievement and unique programs.

These areas are packed with family entertainment options. Naperville’s DuPage Children’s Museum and Long Grove’s historic downtown are local favorites. The communities’ parks, centers, and seasonal events create lively spaces where families connect and grow.

Home prices vary substantially in these suburbs. Clarendon Hills tops the list with a median price of $667,500, while Arlington Heights offers more affordable options at $364,447. This range helps families find homes that match their budgets.

Chicago’s metropolitan area is much more than just a gateway to the city. Every suburb has its unique charm. Evanston boasts a lovely lakefront, Oak Park is known for its rich architecture, and Buffalo Grove offers modern amenities. These ten suburbs near Chicago are perfect for families. They provide excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong community values.