Chicago is a fantastic place to raise a family. This Midwestern city offers all the same opportunities as New York or Los Angeles, but the cost of living is much lower. Whether you were born and raised in Chi-Town or you’re moving from out of state, this guide will help you pick the right neighborhood for your family.
5. Forest Glenn and Sauganash Neighborhood
If you’re searching for a safe and quiet suburb to raise your family in, the Forest Glenn and Sauganash neighborhood might be the community for you. Golf courses, historic churches, and tree-lined streets make this charming neighborhood one of the most desirable places to live in the greater Chicago area.
Great Schools gives Sauganash Elementary a 10/10, making it one of the best schools in the entire state. There are plenty of parks and activities for young children, and Downtown Chicago is only 16 minutes away.
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4. West Loop
West Loop is a cultural hub that allows families to experience the best of city living. Kids will love learning to rock-climb at Brooklyn Boulders, and Cat & Mouse, a unique game store, will keep families occupied on rainy days. The food court at the Chicago French Market offers a taste of unique foods from dozens of different countries, and there are several world-renowned museums located in and around West Loop. West Loop’s central location gives parents a wide variety of quality schools to choose from.
3. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is home to the University of Chicago. As with most college neighborhoods, there is a diverse mix of college students, young professionals, and growing families. If you’ve always dreamed of buying a fixer-upper, the streets of Hyde Park are lined with older homes that would be the perfect investment for a young family.
Hyde Park offers theaters, museums, bookstores, and cafes. There are also plenty of parks and outdoor spaces to give kids (and pets) a place to burn off some excess energy. Schools in Hyde Park are consistently ranked as some of the best in Illinois.
2. Edgewater
Edgewater is a historic neighborhood situated on the shores of Lake Michigan. Its lakeside location makes Edgewater the perfect community for families who enjoy spending time in nature. Watersports, hiking, and biking are only a few of the many family-friendly activities that you’ll find in Edgewater.
Edgewater is listed as one of the top ten safest neighborhoods in Chicago, and there are multiple highly rated public and private schools in this scenic neighborhood.
1. Beverly
If you want to raise your family in a safe neighborhood surrounded by arts and culture, consider moving to Beverly. A 21-minute commute from Downtown Chicago, Beverly boasts a wide range of home styles. Homebuyers can opt to live in a spacious condo, a historic Tudor, or a new build with a large backyard. There is something for everyone in Beverly.
Famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright built multiple homes in Beverly, and you’ll find historical and cultural attractions on almost every block in this artsy neighborhood.
The schools in Beverly are top-notch, and kids love spending time in the area’s many parks and playgrounds.
