Winnetka is a village in Cook County, Illinois, approximately 20 miles north of Chicago, along the North Shore of Lake Michigan. Incorporated in 1869, its name comes from a Native American word meaning “beautiful place.” With a population of over 12,000, Winnetka is known for its attractive neighborhoods, highly rated public schools, parks, beaches, restaurants and strong community services. It is considered one of the best places to live in Illinois and is one of the wealthiest communities in the United States by household income. Winnetka has also been featured in films including Home Alone, The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
Winnetka, IL
A CLOSER LOOK
The Village of Winnetka, meaning “beautiful land,” features tree-lined streets, sandy beaches, renowned schools, outstanding parks, quality recreational facilities, a centralized community house, local nonprofit organizations and many houses of worship.
Its small-town spirit, charm and traditions make it one of the most delightful, friendly and dynamic villages along Lake Michigan’s North Shore. Named “one of the best places to live” by CNN Money and “the best Chicago suburb to live in” by 24/7 Wall Street, Winnetka is located 17 miles north of Chicago and is accessible via the Edens Expressway (I-94), with three Metra stations serving the community.
Business, Shopping and Dining
The Village of Winnetka features three vibrant and charming business districts: Hubbard Woods, Elm and Indian Hill, offering a variety of interesting shops, restaurants, specialty merchants and businesses.
Winnetka businesses provide a unique and diverse selection of products and services, along with exceptional customer service. Its retail stores and restaurants are easily accessible, making Winnetka a popular destination for visitors from outside the area seeking a day of leisure, shopping and dining. There is no place like Winnetka for these experiences.
At a Glance
|
Population |
12,508 |
| Area |
3.95 square miles |
|
County |
Cook |
| Township |
New Trier |
|
ZIP Code |
60093 |
| Area Code |
847 |
|
Government |
Council-Manager |
| Incorporated |
March 10, 1869 |
|
Distance from Chicago |
17 miles |
| Driving Time to the Loop |
30 minutes (average) |
|
Driving Time to O’Hare Airport |
28 minutes (average) |
| Commercial Districts |
Hubbard Woods, East Elm, West Elm & Indian Hill |
|
Sales Tax Rate |
10% |
| Public Schools |
Three elementary (K–4), one middle (5–8), one high school (9–12) |
|
Private Schools |
Three elementary (K–4), one middle, one high school (9–12) |
| Places of Worship |
12 |
|
Health Care |
Lake Forest Hospital: Endeavor System: Evanston, Glenbrook, Highland Park, and Skokie Hospitals, and St. Francis Hospital in Evanston |
| Fire Protection |
One station and a staff of 29 members, 24 sworn members, a public safety analyst and four part-time fire inspectors |
|
Police Protection |
28 sworn officers and 10 full- and part-time civilian employees |
| Parks & Recreation |
The Winnetka Park District offers recreational programs and special events year-round. It maintains 27 parks, three swimming beaches, a sailing beach, a boat launch, a dog beach, an 18-hole golf course, a par-3 nine-hole golf course, eight indoor and 12 outdoor tennis courts, six platform tennis courts, an indoor ice arena and an outdoor ice arena. |
|
Post Office |
One location |
| Public Library |
The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District, with locations in Winnetka and Northfield, provides books, magazines, movies, digital resources, e-books, e-audiobooks, language learning, music and movie streaming, and The Studio, featuring a 3D printer, custom embroidery machine, laser engraver, and Adobe Creative Cloud software. |
|
Transportation |
Three Metra stations: Elm Street, Indian Hill and Hubbard Woods |
| Bus Service |
Pace |
Parking
The Village of Winnetka offers unreserved on-street and off-street parking for a variety of users. On-street parking is permitted daily from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM, unless otherwise indicated by posted signage. Off-street parking is available in select parking lots for train commuters, employees in business districts and other authorized users. Please read all Village parking signs carefully before parking your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Winnetka, Illinois?
Winnetka is a village on Lake Michigan’s North Shore, located north of Chicago in Illinois.
What county is Winnetka, IL in?
Winnetka is located in Cook County, Illinois.
How far is Winnetka from Chicago?
Winnetka is about 17 miles north of Chicago, with an average driving time of around 30 minutes to the Loop.
Are there moving companies that serve Winnetka, IL?
Yes, several moving companies serve Winnetka and nearby suburbs. STI Moving & Storage provides local and long-distance moving services for residents and businesses moving to or from the Winnetka area, including packing, loading, storage and relocation support.
What is the best time to move to Winnetka, IL?
The best time to move to Winnetka is usually spring or early fall, especially May or September, because the weather is more comfortable. For lower moving costs and better mover availability, October through April can also be a good option, though winter weather may be harder.
Is Winnetka a wealthy area?
Yes, Winnetka is considered a wealthy area. U.S. Census data shows a median household income of $250,000+ and a median owner-occupied home value of over $1.3 million.
