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The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027

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The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027

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📖 2,544 words🗓️ Published Aug 16, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best suburbs near chicago, illinois are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Naperville

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 1

Naperville ranks first because it combines the strongest all-around package of top-rated schools, a celebrated 1.75-mile Riverwalk, and a reliable BNSF Metra commute of roughly 40 to 55 minutes into Union Station. Home prices here are among the higher in the western suburbs, reflecting its desirability and nationally ranked school districts 203 and 204. The vibrant downtown anchored by North Central College gives it genuine destination appeal beyond a typical bedroom community.

This is best for families who prioritize elite schools and a true downtown with amenities, and who are willing to pay a premium for it. It trades away the shortest commute times found in closer suburbs like Hinsdale. Compared to Hinsdale, Naperville offers more housing variety, from townhomes to large single-family homes, but requires a longer rail journey into the Loop.

2. Hinsdale

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 2

Hinsdale ranks second for its exceptional combination of a very short BNSF Metra commute of roughly 30 to 40 minutes and access to Hinsdale Central High School, one of the top public schools in Illinois. The village, about 18 miles southwest of the Loop, is one of the wealthiest and most established commuter suburbs, known for stately homes and tree-lined streets. Its refined downtown offers upscale shops and restaurants, catering to a high-end lifestyle.

This is for high earners who want a classic, fast rail commute and top schools without sacrificing an upscale village atmosphere. It trades away the broader housing stock and slightly more moderate price points found in Naperville. Compared to Naperville, Hinsdale offers a quicker trip to the city but at a higher price threshold and with less housing diversity.

3. Arlington Heights

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 3

Arlington Heights ranks third as the best value pick, offering a relatively moderate home price, a lively walkable downtown, and strong District 214 high schools. Located about 25 miles northwest of the Loop, its revitalized downtown features restaurants, a theater, and condos, with the former Arlington racetrack site slated for major redevelopment. The Union Pacific Northwest Metra line provides direct service with commutes of 40 to 50 minutes to downtown.

This is best for buyers who want a transit-rich, walkable suburb at a more accessible price point than Hinsdale or Naperville. It trades away the shortest commute times and the absolute top-tier school reputations of the higher-ranked suburbs. Compared to Hinsdale, Arlington Heights offers more value and a larger downtown, but the rail commute is about 10 to 20 minutes longer.

4. Evanston

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 4

Evanston ranks fourth for its unique urban-suburban character and the shortest, most transit-rich connection to Chicago, with both Metra and CTA 'L' service. Located immediately north of the city on Lake Michigan, it offers beaches, a dense downtown, and the energy of Northwestern University. Commutes downtown run a quick 25 to 40 minutes by rail, making it one of the most convenient options on this list. Home prices vary widely by neighborhood, providing a range of entry points.

This is for buyers who want lakefront living and a college-town atmosphere without sacrificing quick access to the city. It trades away the quiet, family-focused village feel of suburbs like Wilmette or Western Springs. Compared to Arlington Heights, Evanston offers a faster commute and more urban amenities, but its schools are less uniformly top-ranked and the housing stock is more varied.

5. Wilmette

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 5

Wilmette ranks fifth for its premium North Shore lifestyle, featuring lakefront access, the landmark Baha'i House of Worship, and the highly regarded New Trier Township High School. Located about 14 miles north of the Loop, it commands a premium home price that reflects its desirability and established neighborhoods. The Union Pacific North Metra line reaches downtown in about 30 to 40 minutes, offering a solid commute. Gillson Park provides a major lakefront recreational asset.

This is best for families who want top-tier North Shore schools and lakefront proximity in a quiet, established village setting. It trades away the urban energy and housing diversity of Evanston, its neighbor to the south. Compared to Evanston, Wilmette offers a more exclusive and uniformly high-end residential character, but with fewer rental options and a slightly less vibrant downtown.

6. Western Springs

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 6

Western Springs ranks sixth for its quintessential small-village feel, built around a compact, walkable downtown centered on its Metra station. About 15 miles west of the Loop, it offers a fast BNSF rail commute of roughly 30 to 40 minutes and feeds into the strong Lyons Township schools. The higher home price point reflects its desirability among families seeking a tight-knit community. It is a quiet, family-focused village with a classic commuter-suburb character.

This is for families who want a small-village atmosphere with a fast, reliable rail commute and a strong sense of community. It trades away the larger downtowns and broader housing options of places like Naperville or Arlington Heights. Compared to Wilmette, Western Springs offers a similar upscale, family-oriented feel but without lakefront access and at a slightly more moderate price point.

7. Glenview

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 7

Glenview ranks seventh for its unique planned town center, The Glen, a large mixed-use development on a former naval air station with shops, parks, and its own Metra station. Located about 17 miles north of the Loop, it offers a range of home prices and is served by strongly rated schools. Commutes downtown run 30 to 45 minutes via the Milwaukee District North line. This master-planned approach provides a modern, amenity-rich suburban experience.

This is best for families who want a planned community with a central town center, abundant parks, and reliable North Shore-adjacent commuting. It trades away the historic charm and established village feel of towns like Western Springs or Hinsdale. Compared to Western Springs, Glenview offers a more modern and diverse housing stock, but its downtown, while convenient, lacks the same historic character.

8. La Grange

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 8

La Grange ranks eighth for its exceptionally charming downtown, featuring a historic theater and walkable shops, combined with one of the shortest BNSF rail commutes on this list at 25 to 35 minutes. Located about 14 miles southwest of the Loop, its home prices reflect its desirability and proximity to the city. The village is served by the well-regarded Lyons Township schools. This combination of quick commute and vibrant village life is a major draw.

This is for buyers who want a lively, walkable village with a fast, convenient rail commute to downtown Chicago. It trades away the larger lot sizes and more spacious homes found in farther-out suburbs like Naperville. Compared to Glenview, La Grange offers a shorter commute and a more historic, charming downtown, but it has a smaller overall footprint and less in the way of large-scale planned amenities.

9. Wheaton

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 9

Wheaton ranks ninth for its green, college-town atmosphere anchored by Wheaton College, offering a moderate home price and access to strong District 200 schools. Located about 25 miles west of the Loop, it features extensive parks and the Illinois Prairie Path for outdoor recreation. Commutes downtown run 45 to 55 minutes on the Union Pacific West line, which is among the longer trips on this list. This provides a balanced, family-friendly environment at a more accessible price point.

This is best for families who want a college-town feel, extensive green spaces, and solid schools at a moderate price. It trades away the quick commute and close-in convenience of suburbs like La Grange. Compared to La Grange, Wheaton offers more space and a quieter, more nature-oriented lifestyle, but its rail commute is significantly longer.

10. Park Ridge

The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 10

Park Ridge ranks tenth for its strong schools, including the highly rated Maine South High School, and unbeatable proximity to O'Hare Airport. Located about 15 miles northwest of the Loop, it offers a moderate home price and a walkable Uptown district with shops and restaurants. The Union Pacific Northwest Metra line reaches downtown in about 30 to 40 minutes, providing a solid commute. This combination of education, convenience, and accessibility makes it a strong final entry.

This is best for families and frequent flyers who want top schools and easy airport access without a premium price tag. It trades away the lakefront amenities and prestige of North Shore suburbs like Wilmette. Compared to Wheaton, Park Ridge offers a faster commute and closer proximity to the city, but it has a less distinct college-town character and more noise from nearby air traffic.

How we ranked these

This ranking measured ten Chicago suburbs on qualitative factors: school district reputation, Metra commute time, walkable downtown amenities, and overall lifestyle fit. School quality and transit access were weighted most heavily, as they are the primary drivers of home values and resident satisfaction in the metro. Lakefront access, airport proximity, and price point were secondary considerations.

Deliberately ignored were quantitative metrics like median home prices, property tax rates, and crime statistics, because the source material provided no verifiable figures. Also excluded were subjective factors like diversity, nightlife, and cultural offerings, which vary by personal preference. The focus remained on the qualitative strengths and trade-offs that define each suburb's character.

FAQ

What makes a suburb “best” for families near Chicago?

The best suburbs for families typically combine highly rated public schools, a safe community, and a reasonable commute via Metra. Walkable downtowns with parks, libraries, and family-friendly events also matter a lot.

Is it cheaper to live in a suburb than in Chicago itself?

Generally yes, especially when you factor in lower property taxes and more space for the price. However, some close-in suburbs can be as expensive as city neighborhoods, while farther suburbs often offer better value.

How long is the typical commute from these suburbs to downtown Chicago?

Most of the top suburbs have Metra train service, with commutes ranging from about 25 minutes to an hour. Driving can vary widely depending on traffic, but the train is usually more reliable.

Do these suburbs have good public transportation besides the Metra?

Many have local bus systems and some are served by Pace buses. However, car ownership is still common for errands and getting around the suburb itself.

Are schools in these suburbs really that much better than Chicago Public Schools?

Many top Chicago suburbs have nationally recognized school districts with high test scores and strong extracurriculars. While Chicago has excellent magnet and selective enrollment schools, suburban districts often offer more consistent quality across all neighborhood schools.

What’s the biggest downside of living in a Chicago suburb?

The main trade-off is less urban energy and longer commutes. You’ll also likely need a car for daily life, and some find suburban life quieter or less diverse than city living.

Which suburb has the best schools?

Naperville (districts 203 and 204), Wilmette (New Trier), and Hinsdale (Hinsdale Central) are consistently ranked among the top in Illinois. These districts are known for high test scores, strong extracurriculars, and excellent college placement, making them the most sought-after for families.

Which suburb has the fastest commute to downtown?

La Grange, Evanston, and Hinsdale offer the fastest rail commutes, reaching downtown in 25 to 40 minutes. La Grange and Hinsdale are on the BNSF line, while Evanston offers both Metra and CTA L service, providing the most flexibility.

Which suburb is best for airport access?

Park Ridge is the best choice for frequent flyers, located just minutes from O'Hare International Airport. It offers a moderate home price, the highly rated Maine South High School, and a walkable Uptown district, making it a practical and desirable option.

Sources

flowchart TD S["The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illi"] S --> N0["1. Naperville"] N0 --> N1["2. Hinsdale"] N1 --> N2["3. Arlington Heights"] N2 --> N3["4. Evanston"]

flowchart LR C["The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illi"] C --> H0["8. La Grange"] C --> H1["9. Wheaton"] C --> H2["10. Park Ridge"] C --> H3["How we ranked these"]

Related on PULSE

[More suburbs near chicago, illinois rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
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## Direct Answer

The 10 best suburbs near chicago, illinois are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Naperville

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/tn0118-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illi"]
  S --> N0["1. Naperville"]
  N0 --> N1["2. Hinsdale"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Arlington Heights"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Evanston"]
```


Naperville ranks first because it combines the strongest all-around package of top-rated schools, a celebrated 1.75-mile Riverwalk, and a reliable BNSF Metra commute of roughly 40 to 55 minutes into Union Station. Home prices here are among the higher in the western suburbs, reflecting its desirability and nationally ranked school districts 203 and 204. The vibrant downtown anchored by North Central College gives it genuine destination appeal beyond a typical bedroom community.

This is best for families who prioritize elite schools and a true downtown with amenities, and who are willing to pay a premium for it. It trades away the shortest commute times found in closer suburbs like Hinsdale. Compared to Hinsdale, Naperville offers more housing variety, from townhomes to large single-family homes, but requires a longer rail journey into the Loop.


## 2. Hinsdale

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/tn0118-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illi"]
  C --> H0["8. La Grange"]
  C --> H1["9. Wheaton"]
  C --> H2["10. Park Ridge"]
  C --> H3["How we ranked these"]
```


Hinsdale ranks second for its exceptional combination of a very short BNSF Metra commute of roughly 30 to 40 minutes and access to Hinsdale Central High School, one of the top public schools in Illinois. The village, about 18 miles southwest of the Loop, is one of the wealthiest and most established commuter suburbs, known for stately homes and tree-lined streets. Its refined downtown offers upscale shops and restaurants, catering to a high-end lifestyle.

This is for high earners who want a classic, fast rail commute and top schools without sacrificing an upscale village atmosphere. It trades away the broader housing stock and slightly more moderate price points found in Naperville. Compared to Naperville, Hinsdale offers a quicker trip to the city but at a higher price threshold and with less housing diversity.


## 3. Arlington Heights

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/tn0118-b3.jpg)


Arlington Heights ranks third as the best value pick, offering a relatively moderate home price, a lively walkable downtown, and strong District 214 high schools. Located about 25 miles northwest of the Loop, its revitalized downtown features restaurants, a theater, and condos, with the former Arlington racetrack site slated for major redevelopment. The Union Pacific Northwest Metra line provides direct service with commutes of 40 to 50 minutes to downtown.

This is best for buyers who want a transit-rich, walkable suburb at a more accessible price point than Hinsdale or Naperville. It trades away the shortest commute times and the absolute top-tier school reputations of the higher-ranked suburbs. Compared to Hinsdale, Arlington Heights offers more value and a larger downtown, but the rail commute is about 10 to 20 minutes longer.


## 4. Evanston

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/tn0118-b4.jpg)


Evanston ranks fourth for its unique urban-suburban character and the shortest, most transit-rich connection to Chicago, with both Metra and CTA 'L' service. Located immediately north of the city on Lake Michigan, it offers beaches, a dense downtown, and the energy of Northwestern University. Commutes downtown run a quick 25 to 40 minutes by rail, making it one of the most convenient options on this list. Home prices vary widely by neighborhood, providing a range of entry points.

This is for buyers who want lakefront living and a college-town atmosphere without sacrificing quick access to the city. It trades away the quiet, family-focused village feel of suburbs like Wilmette or Western Springs. Compared to Arlington Heights, Evanston offers a faster commute and more urban amenities, but its schools are less uniformly top-ranked and the housing stock is more varied.


## 5. Wilmette

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/tn0118-b5.jpg)


Wilmette ranks fifth for its premium North Shore lifestyle, featuring lakefront access, the landmark Baha'i House of Worship, and the highly regarded New Trier Township High School. Located about 14 miles north of the Loop, it commands a premium home price that reflects its desirability and established neighborhoods. The Union Pacific North Metra line reaches downtown in about 30 to 40 minutes, offering a solid commute. Gillson Park provides a major lakefront recreational asset.

This is best for families who want top-tier North Shore schools and lakefront proximity in a quiet, established village setting. It trades away the urban energy and housing diversity of Evanston, its neighbor to the south. Compared to Evanston, Wilmette offers a more exclusive and uniformly high-end residential character, but with fewer rental options and a slightly less vibrant downtown.


## 6. Western Springs

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/tn0118-b6.jpg)


Western Springs ranks sixth for its quintessential small-village feel, built around a compact, walkable downtown centered on its Metra station. About 15 miles west of the Loop, it offers a fast BNSF rail commute of roughly 30 to 40 minutes and feeds into the strong Lyons Township schools. The higher home price point reflects its desirability among families seeking a tight-knit community. It is a quiet, family-focused village with a classic commuter-suburb character.

This is for families who want a small-village atmosphere with a fast, reliable rail commute and a strong sense of community. It trades away the larger downtowns and broader housing options of places like Naperville or Arlington Heights. Compared to Wilmette, Western Springs offers a similar upscale, family-oriented feel but without lakefront access and at a slightly more moderate price point.


## 7. Glenview

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/tn0118-b7.jpg)


Glenview ranks seventh for its unique planned town center, The Glen, a large mixed-use development on a former naval air station with shops, parks, and its own Metra station. Located about 17 miles north of the Loop, it offers a range of home prices and is served by strongly rated schools. Commutes downtown run 30 to 45 minutes via the Milwaukee District North line. This master-planned approach provides a modern, amenity-rich suburban experience.

This is best for families who want a planned community with a central town center, abundant parks, and reliable North Shore-adjacent commuting. It trades away the historic charm and established village feel of towns like Western Springs or Hinsdale. Compared to Western Springs, Glenview offers a more modern and diverse housing stock, but its downtown, while convenient, lacks the same historic character.


## 8. La Grange

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/tn0118-b8.jpg)


La Grange ranks eighth for its exceptionally charming downtown, featuring a historic theater and walkable shops, combined with one of the shortest BNSF rail commutes on this list at 25 to 35 minutes. Located about 14 miles southwest of the Loop, its home prices reflect its desirability and proximity to the city. The village is served by the well-regarded Lyons Township schools. This combination of quick commute and vibrant village life is a major draw.

This is for buyers who want a lively, walkable village with a fast, convenient rail commute to downtown Chicago. It trades away the larger lot sizes and more spacious homes found in farther-out suburbs like Naperville. Compared to Glenview, La Grange offers a shorter commute and a more historic, charming downtown, but it has a smaller overall footprint and less in the way of large-scale planned amenities.


## 9. Wheaton

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/tn0118-b9.jpg)


Wheaton ranks ninth for its green, college-town atmosphere anchored by Wheaton College, offering a moderate home price and access to strong District 200 schools. Located about 25 miles west of the Loop, it features extensive parks and the Illinois Prairie Path for outdoor recreation. Commutes downtown run 45 to 55 minutes on the Union Pacific West line, which is among the longer trips on this list. This provides a balanced, family-friendly environment at a more accessible price point.

This is best for families who want a college-town feel, extensive green spaces, and solid schools at a moderate price. It trades away the quick commute and close-in convenience of suburbs like La Grange. Compared to La Grange, Wheaton offers more space and a quieter, more nature-oriented lifestyle, but its rail commute is significantly longer.


## 10. Park Ridge

![The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/tn0118-b10.jpg)


Park Ridge ranks tenth for its strong schools, including the highly rated Maine South High School, and unbeatable proximity to O'Hare Airport. Located about 15 miles northwest of the Loop, it offers a moderate home price and a walkable Uptown district with shops and restaurants. The Union Pacific Northwest Metra line reaches downtown in about 30 to 40 minutes, providing a solid commute. This combination of education, convenience, and accessibility makes it a strong final entry.

This is best for families and frequent flyers who want top schools and easy airport access without a premium price tag. It trades away the lakefront amenities and prestige of North Shore suburbs like Wilmette. Compared to Wheaton, Park Ridge offers a faster commute and closer proximity to the city, but it has a less distinct college-town character and more noise from nearby air traffic.


## How we ranked these

This ranking measured ten Chicago suburbs on qualitative factors: school district reputation, Metra commute time, walkable downtown amenities, and overall lifestyle fit. School quality and transit access were weighted most heavily, as they are the primary drivers of home values and resident satisfaction in the metro. Lakefront access, airport proximity, and price point were secondary considerations.

Deliberately ignored were quantitative metrics like median home prices, property tax rates, and crime statistics, because the source material provided no verifiable figures. Also excluded were subjective factors like diversity, nightlife, and cultural offerings, which vary by personal preference. The focus remained on the qualitative strengths and trade-offs that define each suburb's character.

## Related questions

### What are the best lake towns to live in near Chicago?

Evanston and Wilmette are the top lakefront suburbs, offering beaches, lakefront parks, and direct Metra access. Evanston provides a more urban, college-town vibe with CTA L service, while Wilmette is quieter and more residential, feeding the prestigious New Trier High School. Both command premium home prices.

### What are the most affordable suburbs near Chicago with good schools?

Arlington Heights, Wheaton, and Park Ridge offer relatively moderate home prices while feeding strong school districts. Arlington Heights has a walkable downtown and direct Metra service, Wheaton offers a college-town feel with trails, and Park Ridge is near O'Hare with the highly rated Maine South High School.

### What are the best suburbs near Chicago for commuting to the Loop?

La Grange, Evanston, and Hinsdale have the fastest rail commutes, reaching downtown in 25 to 40 minutes. La Grange and Hinsdale are on the BNSF line, while Evanston offers both Metra and CTA L service. These suburbs are ideal for daily commuters who want to minimize travel time.

### What are the best suburbs near Chicago for families?

Naperville, Hinsdale, and Wilmette are top family picks due to their nationally ranked schools and safe, established neighborhoods. Naperville offers a vibrant downtown and Riverwalk, Hinsdale has stately homes and a classic commute, and Wilmette provides lakefront living with New Trier schools.

### What are the best suburbs near Chicago for airport access?

Park Ridge is the clear winner, located minutes from O'Hare International Airport. It offers a moderate home price, the highly rated Maine South High School, and a walkable Uptown district. The Union Pacific Northwest Metra line also reaches downtown in about 30 to 40 minutes.

### What are the best suburbs near Chicago for walkable downtowns?

Arlington Heights, La Grange, and Evanston have the most vibrant, walkable downtowns. Arlington Heights features a pedestrian-friendly center with restaurants and a theater, La Grange has a historic downtown with a theater and shops, and Evanston offers a dense, urban downtown with cultural attractions.

### What are the best suburbs near Chicago for luxury homes?

Hinsdale and Wilmette are the most prestigious, with some of the highest home prices in the metro. Hinsdale offers stately homes and a short BNSF commute, while Wilmette provides lakefront properties and access to New Trier High School. Both are established, wealthy communities.

## FAQ

**What makes a suburb “best” for families near Chicago?**

The best suburbs for families typically combine highly rated public schools, a safe community, and a reasonable commute via Metra. Walkable downtowns with parks, libraries, and family-friendly events also matter a lot.

**Is it cheaper to live in a suburb than in Chicago itself?**

Generally yes, especially when you factor in lower property taxes and more space for the price. However, some close-in suburbs can be as expensive as city neighborhoods, while farther suburbs often offer better value.

**How long is the typical commute from these suburbs to downtown Chicago?**

Most of the top suburbs have Metra train service, with commutes ranging from about 25 minutes to an hour. Driving can vary widely depending on traffic, but the train is usually more reliable.

**Do these suburbs have good public transportation besides the Metra?**

Many have local bus systems and some are served by Pace buses. However, car ownership is still common for errands and getting around the suburb itself.

**Are schools in these suburbs really that much better than Chicago Public Schools?**

Many top Chicago suburbs have nationally recognized school districts with high test scores and strong extracurriculars. While Chicago has excellent magnet and selective enrollment schools, suburban districts often offer more consistent quality across all neighborhood schools.

**What’s the biggest downside of living in a Chicago suburb?**

The main trade-off is less urban energy and longer commutes. You’ll also likely need a car for daily life, and some find suburban life quieter or less diverse than city living.

**Which suburb has the best schools?**

Naperville (districts 203 and 204), Wilmette (New Trier), and Hinsdale (Hinsdale Central) are consistently ranked among the top in Illinois. These districts are known for high test scores, strong extracurriculars, and excellent college placement, making them the most sought-after for families.

**Which suburb has the fastest commute to downtown?**

La Grange, Evanston, and Hinsdale offer the fastest rail commutes, reaching downtown in 25 to 40 minutes. La Grange and Hinsdale are on the BNSF line, while Evanston offers both Metra and CTA L service, providing the most flexibility.

**Which suburb is best for airport access?**

Park Ridge is the best choice for frequent flyers, located just minutes from O'Hare International Airport. It offers a moderate home price, the highly rated Maine South High School, and a walkable Uptown district, making it a practical and desirable option.

## Sources

- https://www.isbe.net/Pages/SchoolReportCards.aspx
- https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/best-suburbs-for-families/m/chicago-area/
- https://metra.com/
- https://www.naperville.il.us/
- https://www.vah.com/
- https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/illinois
- https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/IL

## Related on PULSE

- [More suburbs near chicago, illinois rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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The 10 Best Suburbs Near Chicago, Illinois in 2027

1. Naperville

2. Hinsdale

3. Arlington Heights

4. Evanston

5. Wilmette

6. Western Springs

7. Glenview

8. La Grange

9. Wheaton

10. Park Ridge

How we ranked these

Related questions

What are the best lake towns to live in near Chicago?

What are the most affordable suburbs near Chicago with good schools?

What are the best suburbs near Chicago for commuting to the Loop?

What are the best suburbs near Chicago for families?

What are the best suburbs near Chicago for airport access?

What are the best suburbs near Chicago for walkable downtowns?

What are the best suburbs near Chicago for luxury homes?

FAQ

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