2023 Best Suburbs to Buy a House in Cook County

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  42 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in Western Springs since I was about 1 year old. I think this town is a great place to raise a family as it is a very safe community with great school systems and recreational sports and activities for kids to get involved in. I have spent many summers nannying various kids in the neighborhood and can tell there are many young families moving from the city into the suburbs and building new, very nice homes. The neighborhood is very tight nit and there is even a Facebook group for the moms of western springs to give recommendations and warnings about things occurring around town. The only thing is that it is quite a bubble and sheltered place, not exposing kids to very much and allowing them to live a more privileged life.... Read 42 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Population 13,550

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  20 reviews

Former Resident: Overall, good. The neighborhood is calm and silent. There are not many facilities to attend, however, everything should be good for the family people. Talking about my experience, it was pretty good. I have moved from this place 3 or 4 years ago, but still remember my childhood memories I had always cherished and do not forget it.... Read 20 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Population 7,684

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  8 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in Indian Head Park for 7-8 years now. As a soon-to-be college student, this has been an excellent neighborhood to grow up in. I often feel distant being tucked away by the highway and having to usually drive 10+ minutes to reach anything, but that has its own benefits. The layout of the neighborhood is interesting and feels like it has its own rural-like charm.... Read 8 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Population 4,059

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  26 reviews

Current Resident: As a current resident I would say as small as Orland Hills is, it is a close knit town. Most of the people in the area are nice as can be and get along well. During the summer time the party in the park that they host is the absolute best to go to and have fun!... Read 26 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• grade B+

• Population 6,914

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  44 reviews

Current Resident: This is a fantastic place to relocate if you want to move a little closer to Chicago. You're within a 30 minute drive from literally everything! The food is fantastic, the neighborhood is friendly, and the rent is really reasonable here. Only gripe here is that houses are way too overpriced.... Read 44 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Population 13,501

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  12 reviews

Niche User: Countryside is near a lot of stores, restaurants, etc. and the people in the area appear to be nice which is a bonus. You can walk to different shopping areas and such. Finn Park is a nice place to hang out with a playground, tennis courts, a walking path, baseball fields, a skatepark, and so on. Plus, in the summer they have fun events at the park such as the concert in the park each week.... Read 12 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Population 6,354

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  62 reviews

Current Resident: I would not say that Brookfield has a sparse suburban feel at all. I like that everything’s within an easy walking distance. Train, downtown, 8-corners, Tischler’s, Mary’s Morning Mix up, the library, bars, ice cream shop, etc. It’s very convenient and retains a “city neighborhood” feel that won’t cause any culture shock if you’re looking to move out of the city to start a family or for whatever reason. Easy train ride to Chicago. Can get a good deal on a house for your money and the school’s are great. Town is sandwiched between Riverside and La Grange but is still not snobby somehow, pretty down to earth and educated people live here. My family has lived in this town since the early 1900’s.... Read 62 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Population 19,517

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  51 reviews

Current Resident: Lemont is a great town with fabulous schools. There's only one public high school so everyone knows everyone. Lemont High School is an award-winning Blue Ribbon School. There are 13 teachers that attended Lemont High School as students and loved it so much that they live and work there. The public works department is top-notch. During the winter months, they are always plowing and salting the roads so it's easier for the residents to get around. With all the hills here, they are a god-send!... Read 51 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• grade B

• Population 17,535

• Town in Illinois

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  217 reviews

Current Resident: Living in Schaumburg is a blessing, I live in a safe neighborhood which was not always the case growing up. I can trust my neighbors and know that if I am out of town, I won’t need to worry about a break-in. The crime rate is lower, which gives lets me sleep at night. Schaumburg offers so many fun and creative activities that can be done for couples, and families. I know every weekend I can drive up or down the street and find something to do with a friend or partner. I know deep down that if I wanted to start a family, Schaumburg would be where I raise my children. Its really nice to have woods for walking near us, as well as a mall down the street- talk about diversity!... Read 217 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 78,053

• Town in Illinois

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  192 reviews

Current Resident: I dreaded the day that I would have to move away from my Uptown Chicago apartment. I really believe Chicago is one of the best cities in the world; however, my life was moving in a direction where a single family home would best suit me. Arlington Heights offers picture perfect tree lined neighborhoods, and includes parks perfectly spread about, there is even a public pool which is amazing! Additionally, there is public transportation that leads right down to Chicago, which is perfect for commuters or those who still miss the city! Arlington Heights offers a great down town area which also includes an open area dinning experience and live music on the weekends.... Read 192 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 77,283

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  51 reviews

Current Resident: I'm glad we chose to live here. It's a fantastic place to raise kids. They'll get a small town experience, and the city is just close enough. Yes, taxes are high, but you're generally getting what you pay for: top-notch public schools (the elementary schools seem more like private schools), beautiful atmosphere (the whole village is a class 2 arboretum), the library is amazing, our emergency services are excellent. Very special holiday events in town - the cutest July 4th parade, a fun winter stroll (town party). Walking around, you're seeing historic homes, you can fish in the Des Plaines river, stop and get a $2 soft-serve from Aunt Diana's sweet shop. People are friendly without being intrusive; I've found the standoffishness is often more imagined than real. Make no assumptions, folks. There has been a recent influx of young families from the city. It's safe; kids ride bikes and walk to and from school themselves. Easy shopping nearby. Close to the Brookfield zoo.... Read 51 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 9,346

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  145 reviews

Current Resident: Homewood is simply a wonderful community! Our neighbors are from diverse backgrounds in age and interests. Everyone is friendly, making walks and events around town incredibly enjoyable. The community offers access to all of Chicago's major expressways and there is a major commuter train that is in the center of town. There are numerous top tier restaurants bringing city dining to you at home. I just can't say enough about this lovely little town.... Read 145 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• grade B

• Population 19,716

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  6 reviews

Former Resident: A beautiful 1 square mile town in the suburbs of Chicago on Lake Michigan, this town is almost all white and Christian. The architecture is very pretty, and the public schools here are fantastic if you can afford the property tax.... Read 6 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 2,423

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  93 reviews

Former Resident: Wilmette, Illinois is a wonderful place to grow up and raise a family. It is a beautiful town with much to do for all ages. It is directly next to Lake Michigan making it the perfect place for the summer. The school districts in the North Shore are incredible. They are ranked top 10 in the state and truly give your children a great education. On the other hand, it is very expensive to live here. Because of the wonderful location and amazing schools- taxes are very high and the price of homes goes up each year. People around the Northshore have so much money they dont know what to do with it!... Read 93 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 27,895

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  92 reviews

Current Resident: This is a community that provides a safe and secure environment. Crime rates are extremely low and the educational system is way above average. My family chose to live here for those two exact reasons; safety and good school districts. Within Northbrook, there are also many businesses for both shopping and eating. You honestly don't have to leave the community for necessities (unless you want to). I would recommend Northbrook to anyone looking for a peaceful environment. I'm so happy I found this community!... Read 92 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 35,108

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.64 out of 5  14 reviews

Current Resident: Living in Palos Park for a little over a decade has only brought me enjoyable moments and overall a safe and relaxed environment. I have attended elementary school, middle school, and high school all during my time in Palos Park and have received a high quality education in all of these facilities. In addition to this, nearly all my experiences with the people of this area have been positive which makes it a very accommodating environment for those who may just be moving into the area. Altogether, my experience living in Palos Park has been very worthwhile and it is an area I would recommend to any of those who seek to settle in an area of safety and healthy living.... Read 14 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• grade B

• Population 4,859

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  30 reviews

Current Resident: Such a lovely suburb in south suburbs of Chicago! In Palos Heights you get the feeling you live with nature yet have all the amenities nearby. I love, love our Police Department as they go above and beyond to keep us safe and all the police are very friendly and respectful. Our area is culturally diverse, especially with Trinity College and it's absolutely beautiful campus in our neighborhood make walking the area so lovely. If I would change anything it would be to bring more food shops and quality restaurants to the area that we could all benefit from to fill some of these empty buildings.... Read 30 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• grade B

• Population 12,116

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  201 reviews

Current Resident: I've lived here for 26 years! We purchased with the intent to flip our house and move elsewhere. The more we experienced the area, the more we liked it. We are walking distance to town, the train to Chicago, parks, good schools. We are minutes from major highways and shopping. O'Hare airport is a 20 minute drive. The community is very diverse culturally. There are community festivals, a great park district with really nice facilities, and a responsible village government. We've been really happy with the schools and the opportunities our kids have had. It's kind of expensive to live here and in the Chicago area in general, but we have very enjoyable lives. My kids feel that it's boring here :) but that's because they don't know what boring is!... Read 201 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 67,754

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  43 reviews

Current Resident: We moved to Barrington from a different Chicago suburb a few years ago and we are so happy with our decision. The best place to live is in “The Village”, walking distance to the Metra station and downtown area. Commuting to downtown Chicago is convenient via Metra or I-90. The village could do better attracting more diverse dining and entertainment options but overall we have been satisfied with the town’s amenities. I can walk to Jewel, Starbucks & Cook Street Coffee, various restaurants, a movie theatre, my children’s elementary school, shops, salons, parks, and more. Traffic can be terrible here which is all the more reason to live in the walkable downtown core. There are many beautiful, historic homes in the town which add to its charm. The schools are excellent and we love our neighborhood elementary school (Hough). Everyone is friendly and down to earth.... Read 43 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 11,174

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.53 out of 5  19 reviews

Former Resident: I grew up in Winnetka as did my mom. It’s a wonderful town. As kids and teens, we rode our bikes all over, and there are stop signs on every corner so kids can safely walk everywhere. There are lots of parks, activities at the Community House, and excelkent beach access. There are large beaches and small pocket beaches at the end of all East-West streets. Being literally in the shores of Lake Michigan is fantastic. There is a golf course, AC Nielson Tennis Courts, indoor skating and outdoor skating at town parks, swimming at New Trier. Lots of schools - public. Private, and two Parochial schools- all in town! Uptown Winnetka is great and so is Hubbard Woods. Three Metra train stops, which is terrific, Most towns on the North Shore Line only have one. Trains run below ground so it’s very safe. Easy access to Chicago, or by driving via Sheridan Rd to Lake Shore Drive or Edens expresssway. Lots of village traditions and a lovely library. Very pretty village and neighborhoods.... Read 19 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 12,658

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  170 reviews

Current Resident: Having lived in Orland Park my entire life, I love it. While it isn't perfect, I really have enjoyed living here, and consider myself lucky to have the privilege of living in such a nice town. The public school system is very high quality, with above average programs (especially in history and math). There is just about everything you would need out of any suburban town, with plenty of activities, restaurants, and more. Additionally, its proximity to Chicago gives it the perfect location: it is close enough where citizens of Orland Park can take advantage of the broad variety of things in Chicago, yet far enough where one can live a quieter life. While an amazing place to live, there are some minor downsides. There could be more diversity in schools, as the community is predominantly white. Also, most people in the area come from well-off families, so there isn't much variety in economic situations. Despite these minor negatives, Orland Park is still a wonderful place to live.... Read 170 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 58,622

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  5 reviews

Current Resident: I moved to Barrington hills right before covid. It was the best decision I ever made. I grew up in the Northshore (Northbrook/Glencoe) and I’d pick BH over those anyday. The properties around here are BEAUTIFUL. So much nature and quiet tree lined roads. Taking walks/bike rides is the best. Everything you could need is a 20 min drive or less. Schools are incredible and only going to get better with the $150M renovation taking place. Montessori pre schools in barrington and deer park. You can own horses/farm animals, have burn piles, build trails with the 5+ acres on your land and no one will bother you. If you want privacy, peace and quiet, your own oasis on a ton of land and be in awe every time you drive through your neighborhood this is the place for you.... Read 5 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 4,236

• Town in Illinois

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  210 reviews

Current Resident: I think my parents got really lucky when they picked our neighborhood to move to when I was little. With a great elementary, middle, and high school district and a diverse group of friendly neighbors, I grew up in this quiet suburban area without much distraction. I participated in endless after-school programs, spent weekends poring over books in the library, and go to spend time with friends outdoors and at the movies, mall, and cafes. There is a lot to do and buy that is still affordable here, even with the nearby city prices skyrocketing recently. It is a perfect place to raise children. However, as a young adult just starting a career, I'm not sure if I'm going to stay here my entire life; it does feel like things are slowing down here, families moving out once their children graduate high school and most of my friends living in the city. If you're very family-oriented with young children and want safety, though, it's a great town that I wouldn't overlook.... Read 210 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 52,153

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  218 reviews

Current Resident: Mount Prospect is a great place to settle down and is very family-friendly. The neighborhoods are quiet and safe and the schools in the area are great education-wise. There is easy access to restaurants, shopping areas, and recreational facilities such as parks. The commuter rail is located in the downtown area, therefore allowing easy access to transportation to and from the city of Chicago. In addition to the train station, downtown Mount Prospect also includes the library, the city hall, and a mix of local businesses and commercialized businesses. Overall, it is definitely a nice suburb to reside in, however, diversity (specifically in schools) could be improved.... Read 218 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• grade B

• Population 56,510

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  42 reviews

Current Resident: Flossmoor is a wonderful community to live, work, and play in. I both live and work in Flossmoor and I love how diverse the community is and how active most residents are in village happenings. Plenty of parks, quaint little downtown strip, beautiful homes, easy access to Metra, Flossmoor has it all. As it is a pretty family-oriented village, the nightlife scene can be seen as a bit lacking at times but that isn't a big concern for a lot of residents. Our real estate market is booming, house values are rising and people are coming from all over the state/country to try to get a home here.... Read 42 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• grade B

• Population 9,868