A Bird’s-Eye View of the Barrington Area
Welcome to the Barrington Area, a community known for its beautiful natural surroundings, charming downtowns and strong local businesses. The area combines history with modern living, featuring businesses in historic buildings from the 1800s as well as one of the region’s most popular shopping malls.
The Barrington Area is well known for its peaceful lifestyle, open green spaces and efforts to preserve its history. Visitors and residents enjoy historic downtown areas, excellent shopping, cultural attractions, horse farms, rolling wooded landscapes and beautiful lakes. The people in the community take pride in where they live and actively support local events and activities. Whether you are looking for a good meal, a unique shopping experience or a relaxing walk through downtown, the Barrington Area has something to offer.
Located about 35 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, the Barrington Area is often considered one of the most desirable places to live in the northwestern suburbs. It includes the communities of Barrington, Barrington Hills, South Barrington, North Barrington, Lake Barrington, Tower Lakes and Deer Park. Although Inverness is not officially part of the Barrington Area, some of its homes are within the Barrington School District and enjoy access to many of the area’s services and amenities.
What Makes Barrington Different?
Barrington is different from many Chicago suburbs because it combines historic charm with modern living. Founded in the 1860s, it has kept its small-town atmosphere while offering convenient access to Chicago.
The area is known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, equestrian properties, luxury estates, local restaurants and boutiques, open green spaces, and its charming downtown.
Is Barrington a Good Place to Raise a Family?
Many families choose Barrington because of its welcoming community and family-friendly environment. The area offers quality schools, parks, outdoor activities and community programs that support children’s learning, recreation, and overall well-being. Regular local events and safe, attractive neighborhoods further make Barrington a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Barrington IL Area General Community Profile
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Area |
Approximately 107 square miles | |
| Area Villages |
Barrington, Barrington Hills, Lake Barrington, North Barrington, Port Barrington, South Barrington, Deer Park, Inverness, Kildeer, Long Grove, Tower Lakes |
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Distance from Chicago |
Approximately 35 miles | |
| Climate |
Annual rainfall: 33.85 inches; Mean temperature: 49.57°F; Coldest month: January (24.5°F); Warmest month: August (74.8°F); Highest elevation: 890 feet |
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Churches |
15 churches representing 11 denominations |
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| Population (2025 Census) |
Combined Population: Approximately 54,874 |
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| Library | Barrington Area Library, 847-382-1300. The library district covers approximately 72 square miles. | |
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| Median Age & Household Income (2020–2024 ACS) |
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| Recreation | Five park districts, one public golf course, five private golf courses, swimming pools, tennis courts, soccer and baseball fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, and recreation programs | |
| Schools | Barrington Community Unit School District 220: 1 high school, 2 middle schools, 8 elementary schools, 1 early childhood center, plus an independent community college and parochial school | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Barrington, Illinois?
Barrington is a suburban village in northeastern Illinois, approximately 35 miles northwest of downtown Chicago.
What county is Barrington, IL, in?
The Village of Barrington is located in both Cook County and Lake County.
Is South Barrington in Cook County?
Yes. South Barrington is located in Cook County, Illinois.
Is the Barrington area wealthy?
Yes, the Barrington area is generally considered affluent, although income levels vary between villages. The median household income is $147,989 in Barrington and $221,575 in South Barrington, compared with $83,390 for Illinois, based on the 2020–2024 Census estimates.
What county is Barrington Hills, IL, in?
Barrington Hills extends across four counties: Cook, Kane, Lake and McHenry.
Are there moving companies that serve the Barrington area?
Yes. Several moving companies serve Barrington and the surrounding suburbs. STI Moving & Storage provides local and long-distance moving services for residents and businesses moving to or from the Barrington area, including packing, loading, storage and relocation support.
