When people think of Chicago, they often picture its bustling downtown and iconic skyline, but the true essence of living in Chicago extends far beyond the city center. The suburbs of Chicago are a diverse collection of residential areas that offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to the vibrant amenities the city is known for. These Chicago suburbs are spread across various parts of the metropolitan area, each with its own unique character and appeal.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Chicago suburbs—from scenic lakefront communities to peaceful, tree-lined neighborhoods—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Chicago or are curious about the different Chicago neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of Chicago to call home.
Cost of living in Chicago
Before we dive into the top Chicago suburbs, let’s cover how much it costs to live in Chicago. The overall cost of living in Chicago is about 14% higher than the national average. Housing is a significant factor, with the median sale price for a home in Chicago at $360,000, which is slightly lower than the national average of $432,657. Rent follows a similar trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago at $2,202, which is about 45% higher than the national average of $1,514.
While some suburbs around Chicago offer more affordable options, others can be just as expensive, if not more. Here, we’ll explore a range of top suburbs, providing different lifestyle and housing opportunities depending on your budget and preferences.
If you’re looking for more specific rental insights, check out our guides on the 10 Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL for Renters in 2024 and the 14 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Chicago to Rent in 2024.
1. Naperville
Known for: Top-ranked schools, downtown charm, and recreational amenities
Naperville is a large, vibrant suburb southwest of Chicago, renowned for its top-rated schools and its charming downtown area, which features a blend of historic architecture, independent boutiques, and a diverse range of restaurants. Naperville is also home to many parks, including the popular Centennial Beach, a unique community water park, and the Naperville Riverwalk, a scenic pedestrian pathway along the DuPage River. The housing market in Naperville offers a wide range of options, from upscale condos near downtown to spacious single-family homes in peaceful neighborhoods.
Population: 148,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,032
Median home sale price: $615,250
Naperville transportation scores: Walk Score 34, Bike Score 45, Transit Score 12
Apartments for rent in Naperville, IL | Houses for rent in Naperville, IL | Homes for sale in Naperville, IL
2. Evanston
Known for: Northwestern University, lakefront living, and cultural diversity
Located just north of Chicago, Evanston is a dynamic suburb known for being home to Northwestern University, which brings a vibrant energy to the city. The suburb has a beautiful lakefront with beaches, parks, and biking trails that offer stunning views of Lake Michigan. Evanston is also known for its cultural diversity, with a variety of independent businesses, coffee shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. The architecture is a mix of historic homes, modern condos, and charming bungalows.
Population: 78,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,613
Median home sale price: $375,000
Evanston transportation scores: Walk Score 76, Bike Score 89, Transit Score 51
Apartments for rent in Evanston, IL | Houses for rent in Evanston, IL | Homes for sale in Evanston, IL
3. Schaumburg
Known for: Business centers, shopping, and suburban convenience
Schaumburg is one of Chicago’s largest and most popular suburbs, known for being home to the Woodfield Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the U.S. The area also boasts a strong mix of corporate headquarters and retail centers, making it a business hub as well as a suburban retreat. Schaumburg is surrounded by parks, providing plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. Housing ranges from apartments near the business districts to larger suburban homes in more residential areas.
Population: 75,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,926
Median home sale price: $299,000
Schaumburg transportation scores: Walk Score 43, Bike Score 66
Apartments for rent in Schaumburg, IL | Houses for rent in Schaumburg, IL | Homes for sale in Schaumburg, IL
4. Oak Park
Known for: Historic homes, arts, and cultural scene
Oak Park is a charming and architecturally significant suburb located just west of Chicago. It’s best known for its historic homes, including several designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Oak Park has a rich cultural scene, with theaters, art galleries, and a variety of dining options. The suburb offers a lively downtown area with independent shops and restaurants, making it a great place for those seeking a walkable community.
Population: 52,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,389
Median home sale price: $517,000
Oak Park transportation scores: Walk Score 78, Bike Score 66, Transit Score 61
Apartments for rent in Oak Park, IL | Houses for rent in Oak Park, IL | Homes for sale in Oak Park, IL
5. Arlington Heights
Known for: Local events, downtown district, and great community feel
Arlington Heights is a vibrant and close-knit community located northwest of Chicago. The suburb is known for its downtown district, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Arlington Heights also hosts several events throughout the year, including summer festivals and farmers’ markets. The suburb is home to a mix of housing styles, from historic homes to modern developments, with an emphasis on spacious single-family homes.
Population: 75,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,353
Median home sale price: $470,000
Arlington Heights transportation scores: Walk Score 48, Bike Score 59
Apartments for rent in Arlington Heights, IL | Houses for rent in Arlington Heights, IL | Homes for sale in Arlington Heights, IL
6. La Grange
Known for: Historic homes, small-town charm, and vibrant downtown
La Grange is a picturesque suburb located about 14 miles west of downtown Chicago. It is known for its well-preserved historic homes and a quaint downtown filled with local shops, boutiques, and a variety of dining options. La Grange offers a community-oriented feel with regular events like farmers’ markets and festivals. The suburb has excellent public transportation options, with its Metra station offering a direct line into downtown Chicago, making it popular for commuters.
Population: 15,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,444
Median home sale price: $450,000
La Grange transportation scores: Walk Score 71, Bike Score 57
Apartments for rent in La Grange, IL | Houses for rent in La Grange, IL | Homes for sale in La Grange, IL
7. Glenview
Known for: Expansive parks, strong community, and amenities
Glenview is a scenic and spacious suburb located about 20 miles north of downtown Chicago. It’s known for its large parks and recreational facilities, including The Grove and Gallery Park, which are popular for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking. Glenview has a mix of newer developments and established neighborhoods, offering a range of housing options. Its strong sense of community and proximity to excellent schools, shopping, and dining make it a desirable location.
Population: 48,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,670
Median home sale price: $700,000
Glenview transportation scores: Walk Score 39, Bike Score 42, Transit Score 27
Apartments for rent in Glenview, IL | Houses for rent in Glenview, IL | Homes for sale in Glenview, IL
8. Winnetka
Known for: Lakefront views, historic homes, and upscale living
Winnetka is one of Chicago’s most affluent suburbs, located along Lake Michigan’s North Shore. Known for its luxurious homes, tree-lined streets, and excellent schools, Winnetka offers an upscale lifestyle with access to beautiful beaches, parks, and scenic lakefront views. The town’s charming downtown area has boutique shops, gourmet dining, and cultural institutions, providing plenty of entertainment. Housing in Winnetka mainly consists of large, historic estates, but there are also more modern homes and developments.
Population: 12,000
Median home sale price: $1,550,000
Winnetka transportation scores: Walk Score 88, Bike Score 70
Apartments for rent in Winnetka, IL | Houses for rent in Winnetka, IL | Homes for sale in Winnetka, IL
9. Hinsdale
Known for: Luxury homes, prestigious schools, and affluent community
Hinsdale is an upscale suburb known for its elegant homes, excellent schools, and tight-knit community. Located about 20 miles west of downtown Chicago, Hinsdale offers a peaceful residential atmosphere with easy access to the city. The suburb has a charming downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and coffee shops, as well as several parks and country clubs that provide recreational opportunities. Hinsdale’s housing market features a range of high-end homes, from historic estates to new constructions.
Population: 18,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,621
Median home sale price: $1,185,000
Hinsdale transportation scores: Walk Score 43, Bike Score 41, Transit Score 23
Apartments for rent in Hinsdale, IL | Houses for rent in Hinsdale, IL | Homes for sale in Hinsdale, IL
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Chicago area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.