City life isn't for everyone. For those thinking about heading to the suburbs with an expanding brood, consider these top choices.
A new study by real estate group Movoto revealed the 10 best Chicago suburbs for families. The suburbs were ranked based on the quality of their schools, total crimes per 100,000 people, cost of living, unemployment rate, average commute time, median household income and median monthly housing costs.
The top rated suburb was Buffalo Grove, located north of Chicago. According to Movoto, Buffalo Grove is one of the fastest growing villages in the Chicago area. With only 816 crimes per 100,000 people, great schools and a low unemployment rate, the real estate company described Buffalo Grove as a kind of sanctuary to counter urban stress.
"Unlike a lot of suburban communities these days, which show problems from rapid urbanization, Buffalo Grove manages to remain a community of tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, safe neighborhoods and friendly faces," Movoto's Natalie Grigson wrote.
Filling out the second and third spots were Wheaton and Lisle, both western suburbs located near each other. Wheaton was highlighted for its restaurants, boutiques and family-friendly activities and events, although it has a higher cost of living. Lisle, meanwhile, was called out for its tree-lined streets and beautiful parks.
Interestingly, all suburbs listed in the top 10 are located north, west or northwest of Chicago. No south or southwest suburbs were listed.
The top 10 suburbs are, in order:
- Buffalo Grove
- Wheaton
- Lisle
- Lincolnshire
- Itasca
- Elmhurst
- Winfield
- Downers Grove
- Lake Forest
- Mundelein
