2019 Most Diverse Suburbs in the Chicago AreaAbout this List

Bolingbrook

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 219 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in Bolingbrook pretty much my entire life, almost. I am currently 20 years old now. It has a very homey feeling to it, but that might be personal bias. There is a lot to do, depending on what you are looking for. There's plenty of parks for kids, plenty of food options to pick from, and lots of shopping places from the promenade with friends to grocery shopping for essentials! I feel well connected to surrounding areas and don't feel too "closed off", as Bolingbrook is pretty close to anything you would need.
Read 219 Reviews

• A-

• A

• A+

• 74,548 Population

Zion

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 59 reviews

Current Resident: We live in a central location to go many places, however, we have a lively small downtown in Zion and there is usually something going on or a place for you to go. Though, parts of Zion can be dangerous and more crime ridden, the entire city isn't that way. The city is a working class city and have I had crime happen in my neighborhood? Yes, my parents' cars have been ransacked and there was a big-time burglar that lived down the street from us. But, this doesn't define my experience or made it any worse. There's good and bad to every place that people live but it's what you do to make that experience the best for yourself.
Read 59 Reviews

• C+

• C+

• A+

• 24,157 Population

Glendale Heights

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 85 reviews

Former Resident: Glendale Heights is a village in DuPage County in suburban Chicago. It's a wonderful place to be because of the diverse culture and various people there. As a result of its size, the communtiy is very close-knit, safe, and a has a healthy enviroment. I've been living here for the past eleven years and I can truly say that this is a great place to be! The library, sports hub, and police department have events often that help the kids in the area learn about new and fascinating things. The school districts are great too.
Read 85 Reviews

• A-

• A

• A+

• 34,330 Population

Berkeley

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 19 reviews

Current Resident: Moved to Berkey a few years ago wanting to find a small quiet town outside the city but close to Metra. I absolutely love that it's a small, tree covered town minutes from the metra. I can get into downtown in 35 minutes!
Read 19 Reviews

• B

• C-

• A+

• 5,205 Population

Aurora

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 482 reviews

Current Resident: I have been a resident in Aurora, IL for twelve years. As an employed wife, mother and homeowner I would recommend it to anyone looking to relocate to a suburb in Chicago. Although there is no public transit, there is more than sufficient major highway and wide streets that access great schools, libraries, churches and shopping areas. It offers a wide range of restaurants and entertainment for all age groups from theaters to night life. Aurora has a great mix of diverse families and there are many small and large businesses that employ many area residents. I love living in Aurora!
Read 482 Reviews

• B+

• B+

• A+

• 200,946 Population

Hanover Park

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 76 reviews

Current Resident: My experience with Hanover Park is amazing. I grew up around warm and caring neighbors that always help me out and support me. I have lived in Hanover Park all my life. I have also attended a public elementary school in Hanover Park and learned how to grow as a person from the warm environment this school and neighborhood provided. The climate of this suburb is very family friendly due to many of the neighbors having children of their own and also due to the fact that this neighborhood consists of 2 elementary schools. Another positive aspect of Hanover Park is that it is located in a convenient spot regarding restaurants, drug stores, retail stores, and many other places to spend recreational time. On the other hand, a negative aspect of Hanover Park is that many people speed their cars during the night time which can threaten people's safety. Some residents are also known to blast their music late at night while other residents are trying to sleep.
Read 76 Reviews

• A-

• A+

• A+

• 38,350 Population

Hammond

• Suburb in Indiana
• 178 reviews

Current Resident: The diversity was a great place to grown up in. There is no other place like Hammond. It contains many different cultures and religions and beliefs. Being in Hammond has helped me open my eyes and mind to new and different things. It has helped me realize that there are other different cultures out in the world, not just mine. Hammond is a place where I can be myself and find all types friendships, that all come from different backgrounds. It made respect and be more open to new things that I will encounter in my life and in college.
Read 178 Reviews

• B-

• C-

• A+

• 77,827 Population

Fairmont

• Suburb of Chicago, IL

• B+

• A

• A+

• 2,595 Population

Wheeling

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 136 reviews

Current Resident: One of the number one things I like about Wheeling, IL is the fact that it’s a very quiet and safe town. Nothing much goes on that would turn people away, it’s very active community that helps those in need. I’ve been living in Wheeling for most of my life’s and have enjoyed all of my time spent here. However, one thing which I would like to see in Wheeling is a more commercialized area like a mall or something of the like. Though it isn’t being worked on currently in downtown which will make the town even better socially and economically!
Read 136 Reviews

• A

• A-

• A+

• 38,264 Population

Skokie

• Town in Illinois
• 188 reviews

Current Resident: I love Skokie! I worked in the schools for 12 years and wanted to live nowhere else. It's wonderful. It's very diverse (as in there is no majority and minority) all races, religions, and cultures can be found here. Wonderful people that are very down to earth and many choices for food and recreation. The park district is one of the strongest, the library is wonderful, we're close to the lake but have plenty of affordable housing options. It's easily accessible, with the CTA and the yellow line. Right off of the highway. It's the northshore without the attitude problem.
Read 188 Reviews

• A+

• A+

• A+

• 64,773 Population

Hillside

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 29 reviews

Current Resident: I what I enjoyed growing up in Hillside was and STILL is the Diverse Resturants: Authentic Mexican/Puerto Rican, Urban (Joe's Ribs, Chicken and Fish), Subs, Pizza, Chinese, Burgers n Fry Joints are the best, very satisfying!!! There's a walk way which is called Prairie Path which extends as far as Villa Park/Downers Grove areas, this is cool because people walk their dogs, jog, run, walk, power walk, skate and ride bikes. The pathway is so therapeutic!!! The landscaping of the neighbors lawns, flower arrangements as well as bushes and trees breath taking. There is and open lot near a Car Store that can be filled with a Movie theater, lol, that's about it.
Read 29 Reviews

• B-

• C-

• A+

• 8,151 Population

Preston Heights

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 8 reviews

• B-

• B-

• A+

• 2,817 Population

Joliet

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 339 reviews

Current Resident: Living in Joliet, IL isn't bad as everyone thinks. I enjoy the city! Great places to go around with family/friends. I appreciate what the city has to offer to me. Things that can change here in Joliet are the traffic jams that can happen at times. The city has great public programs/ organizations that children and adults can enjoy! Joliet is a well-rounded city that people can live happily. The most important thing I really love about the city is when people gather to have events. For example, "Taste of Joliet" is a great example where people all over Joliet and other cities come together and experience a great feeling to food vendors, carnival, kids zone, and headline entertainment!
Read 339 Reviews

• B

• B

• A+

• 148,172 Population

Forest Park

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 32 reviews

Current Resident: If you're looking for a place to take the family even if it's for ice cream, a movie in the park, summer fests, or to explore the downtown area, then this is the place to go. With so many activities the community does and provides you wouldn't want to miss it! Everyone is very friendly and looks out for one another.
Read 32 Reviews

• A-

• C-

• A+

• 14,127 Population

Merrillville

• Suburb in Indiana
• 94 reviews

Current Resident: I've lived in Merrillville for a few years now, and I've had a positive experience thus far. I grew up in the country for my entire childhood, and then as an adult moved to a large town, which is Merrillville. I still get the feel of the country that hold fondly, but everything is a short drive away. I love it! A big plus is Merrillville seems to be putting effort in expanding and making sure our communities are safe and developing.
Read 94 Reviews

• B

• B-

• A+

• 35,183 Population

Blue Island

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 48 reviews

Current Resident: Blue Island is a suburb that is very advanced and has a lot of communication between the city government and the people. City hall is always open to the people and they are able to join the town-hall meetings to express any concerns they may have. There is diversity in this city which means there are many different types of restaurants for all different types of people. Cultural celebrations are also very common, so it's fun to be a part of Blue Island. Something that needs to change is the gang activity. Although in the past years, there has been a decrease in violence, it's still not 100% safe to walk alone at night. More police monitoring should be established.
Read 48 Reviews

• B-

• B

• A+

• 22,446 Population

Lansing

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 89 reviews

Current Resident: Lansing has a lot to offer the community. There are art opportunities. Plenty of great eateries. Only 30 min drive from Chicago. There are weekend events such as Cruise Night and performances in the hub of the center of town. The schools are constantly being improved upon to give our kids the best education. One of my favorite things, was TF South's annual art shows, which is open to the public.
Read 89 Reviews

• B-

• C+

• A+

• 28,308 Population

Chicago Heights

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 99 reviews

Current Resident: It’s a good town! They keep the streets clean. Pick up garbage on time, yards are cut nicely, friendly neighbors, mailman always on time, and police are always on top and making sure everything get checked out and always there when needed. Also, they are very helpful.
Read 99 Reviews

• C+

• C-

• A+

• 30,292 Population

Hoffman Estates

• Town in Illinois
• 186 reviews

Current Resident: I live at the border of two cities: Elgin and Hoffman Estates. Although they are neighboring towns, it seems as though they’re worlds apart. Hoffman Estates is a relatively new town that is constantly being innovated and Elgin is an older town that has been there since the 1800s. What I like about Hoffman Estates is the feeling of safety in my neighborhood. After hearing stories of gang-affiliation and drugs in Elgin neighborhoods, I enjoy coming home and feeling as though I am protected. I wouldn’t want to change anything about Hoffman Estates because it’s constantly being changed already. There are annual innovations being made to make it a better city than it already is. I love my city.
Read 186 Reviews

• A+

• A+

• A+

• 51,631 Population

Elgin

• City in Illinois
• 305 reviews

Current Resident: Having been born in Elgin, I love the community of friends I have been able to form, along with the various attractions offered throughout the city! Nearly every year, my family and I participate in the annual Elgin Valley Fox Trot, and have enjoyed walking or running.
My favorite places to go are the Gail Borden Public Library, and Rakow Branch Public Library: both wonderful to find interesting books to read, or to meet up with friends for studying or any event being held!
Although some people don't see much to do around here, I'm always able to find something to do, and the distance from this city to neighboring ones is always convenient.
Read 305 Reviews

• B

• B

• A+

• 112,628 Population

Crest Hill

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 35 reviews

Current Resident: I like the neighbors and everyone is very friendly toward each other in the neighborhoods. The area is safe for kids to roam and to play at the parks. A new park was just constructed in my subdivision as well. Crest Hill isn't too far from Joliet, and Joliet as a mall and many things to do as well for teenagers. There's a car dealership in Crest Hill as well. Fast food places and restaurants are also close by Crest Hill and several job opportunities in fast food and in other similar level occupations.
Read 35 Reviews

• B+

• A

• A+

• 20,368 Population

Waukegan

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 164 reviews

Current Resident: Growing up in this city was a blessing! Although it is known to have a bad reputation, the people of Waukegan really do care about this city and are willing to put in the effort to make it better! Growing up here definitely humbled me, and I am grateful for the working class people of this community. I will forever be proud of my roots, and they are planted here in Waukegan.
Read 164 Reviews

• B-

• C+

• A+

• 87,999 Population

North Chicago

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 21 reviews

Current Resident: Close to a diverse range of other suburbs, North Chicago has everything you could imagine within a 30 minute drive. Six Flags is to the north, Lake Forest to the south, and the city within an hour and a half, there is plenty to do and see! Furthermore, it's right on the lake, providing many natural opportunities.
Read 21 Reviews

• B-

• D

• A+

• 30,013 Population

Evanston

• Town in Illinois
• 167 reviews

Current Resident: Evanston is a great city right north of Chicago. We enjoy the benefits of being next to such a huge metropolis, without having to deal with some of the more negative aspects of city living. Its next to Lake Michigan as well, which creates a very beautiful environment.
Besides its geographical qualities, Evanston has an amazing school district. It has only one high school which has an A+ from Niche and scores very high in national rankings. It is also a college town, with Northwestern University adding a great atmosphere to Evanston.
However, one thing I would change is the activities available. Evanston can get boring at times, and if you don't go to Chicago a lot, you can get stuck in a limbo. Other than that small thing, it is a great town to live in!
Read 167 Reviews

• A+

• A+

• A+

• 75,557 Population

Addison

• Suburb of Chicago, IL
• 73 reviews

Current Resident: I have been living in Addison IL for about 12 years now. I love how friendly and caring everyone in the community is. There is multiple activities and events to attend no matter of age, For example, every Thursday in the summer, the village has a rock and roll night. This event is a place to eat and have a good time while watching a live band. The local schools do a amazing job in teaching the criteria that is needed for everyday life in the world. The teachers in Addison not only educate about a certain subject , but how to be successful in life no matter what difficulties come along the way. Though Addison is a amazing community, we need to start more club teams for sports. I believe this ,because as an athlete there are not a lot of clubs to improve in a sport. Overall, I love living in Addison and it has been such an amazing place to grow up and learn everything I need for college and everything ahead in my life.
Read 73 Reviews

• B+

• B

• A+

• 37,104 Population