Chicago is home to many beautiful and wealthy suburbs that are known for their luxury homes, excellent schools, modern facilities and high quality of life. These communities are popular with families, working professionals and retirees who want a safe, comfortable, and convenient place to live. If you’re planning to move for work, education or simply looking for a better lifestyle, this guide will introduce you to some of the best suburbs around Chicago. You’ll also find helpful answers to common questions and learn what makes these areas such attractive places to call home.
If you’re planning to move, working with a trusted Chicago moving company like STI Moving & Storage can make the process easier. Professional movers can help handle the packing, transportation and heavy lifting, making your move smoother and less stressful.
Why Are Chicago Suburbs So Popular?
Chicago’s suburbs are a great choice for people who want to enjoy both city convenience and a quieter lifestyle. Living close to Chicago means you can easily access job opportunities, entertainment, shopping, restaurants and cultural attractions while enjoying more space and a peaceful neighborhood.
Many of these suburbs are especially appealing to luxury homebuyers because they offer large homes, highly rated schools, private clubs, beautiful parks and excellent dining options. Safe neighborhoods, well-kept communities, and a high quality of life make these suburbs some of the most desirable places to live in the Chicago area.
What are the Wealthiest Suburbs of Chicago?
Some of the wealthiest suburbs around Chicago are:
- Winnetka – Known for its lakefront mansions and prestigious schools.
- Kenilworth – A small, upscale village with some of the most expensive homes in Illinois.
- Naperville – One of the most desirable suburbs, known for its strong schools, vibrant downtown, and upscale neighborhoods.
- Lake Bluff – A quiet lakeside community with historic homes, local charm and a close-knit feel.
- Hinsdale – An elegant western suburb recognized for its historic architecture and affluent community.
- Barrington – Offers spacious homes, horse properties, and a peaceful suburban lifestyle.
- South Barrington – An affluent suburb featuring luxury homes, gated communities, and easy access to shopping and major highways.
- Barrington Hills – Known for its spacious homes, large properties, equestrian estates and peaceful countryside setting.
- Lake Forest – A North Shore gem known for luxury living and expansive estates.
- Glencoe – Offers a peaceful setting and sophistication along Lake Michigan.
- Wilmette – Known for its beautiful homes, strong schools and charming community.
- Highland Park – Famous for its mix of wealth, culture and natural beauty.
These suburbs are consistently ranked among the most affluent in the state and attract residents who value privacy, quality education and a luxurious lifestyle.
What Makes These Suburbs the Wealthiest?
A few important reasons make these suburbs some of the wealthiest in the area:
- High Household Incomes: Many people living here earn much more than the state and national average.
- Expensive Homes: Luxury homes worth millions of dollars are common, especially in neighborhoods near the lake.
- Excellent Schools: These suburbs are known for their highly rated public and private schools.
- Upscale Amenities: Residents have easy access to country clubs, luxury shopping, fine dining and cultural attractions.
- Close to Chicago: They offer a quiet suburban lifestyle while keeping downtown Chicago within easy reach for work and entertainment.
The combination of financial prosperity, a prime location and outstanding services creates communities that consistently rank among the wealthiest in the Midwest.
Which Suburb has the Most Expensive Homes Near Chicago?
Winnetka, Kenilworth, and Glencoe are among the most expensive suburbs in the Chicago area, with many homes valued between $1.5 million and more than $3 million. Among them, Kenilworth is often considered the most exclusive, thanks to its beautiful lakefront estates and some of the highest home values in the region.
At the same time, Hinsdale and Lake Forest are also known for their impressive multi-million-dollar homes, offering a similar level of luxury, privacy, and upscale living.
If you’re planning to move to one of these prestigious communities, working with a professional Chicago moving company can help ensure your valuable belongings and high-end furniture are transported safely and with care.
What is the Richest Suburb in Illinois?
Winnetka is widely recognized as the richest and popular suburb in Illinois. According to U.S. Census data and income reports, the average household income in Winnetka is more than $200,000. The area is well known for its scenic lakefront properties, excellent schools and its close-knit yet prestigious community.
What are the Best Luxury Neighborhoods in Chicago’s Suburbs?
For those seeking an upscale lifestyle, here are some of the most luxurious neighborhoods:
- East Winnetka – Known for lakefront access and architectural marvels.
- Hinsdale’s Robbins Park Historic District – Filled with charm and exclusivity.
- Lake Forest’s Onwentsia Area – Surrounded by golf courses and stately homes.
- North Shore Club Districts (Wilmette, Glencoe) – Rich in greenery and culture.
- Burr Ridge Estates – Located slightly farther west, offering a modern take on suburban luxury.
These neighborhoods offer more than just large homes. They are known for their history, reputation and comfortable lifestyle, making them a popular choice for people looking for upscale living.
Which Chicago Suburbs Have the Highest Median Income?
Based on recent census and real estate data, these suburbs have some of the highest median household incomes:
- Kenilworth
- Hinsdale
- Wilmette
- Glencoe
- Winnetka
- Lake Forest
These communities are known not only for their high household incomes but also for low crime rates, excellent schools and strong community values. That’s why they are popular choices for both families and professionals.
What Amenities Do Wealthy Chicago Suburbs Offer?
Residents of affluent Chicago suburbs enjoy:
- Exclusive country clubs & private golf courses
- Boutique shopping & designer outlets
- Fine dining restaurants & gourmet markets
- Prestigious private & public schools
- Luxury fitness & wellness facilities
- Private marinas & lakefront access
- Cultural attractions, including local theaters, museums & music festivals
In addition, services such as private security, landscaping and concierge services are more common, further enhancing a high standard of living.
Are These Suburbs Good Places to Live for Families?
Absolutely. Many of these wealthy suburbs are designed with families in mind:
- Top-rated public schools in districts like New Trier (Winnetka, Wilmette) & Hinsdale Central.
- Abundant green spaces, including playgrounds, forest preserves, & lakefront trails.
- Safe neighborhoods with low crime rates.
- Active parent communities & youth-focused programs.
- Close proximity to Chicago for easy access to jobs, universities and cultural opportunities.
If you’re moving with children, reputable Chicago moving company like STI specialize in family relocations, helping ensure a smooth transition into your new community.
How Do Home Prices Compare in the Wealthiest Chicago Suburbs?
Here’s a quick look at the average home prices:
- Kenilworth: About $2.36 million
- Glencoe: About $1.97 million
- Winnetka: About $1.88 million
- Hinsdale: About $1.61 million
- Barrington Hills: About $1.35 million
- Lake Forest: About $1.28 million
Kenilworth currently has the highest median sale price among these communities, followed by Glencoe and Winnetka. However, home prices can vary depending on market conditions, property size, location and the number of homes available for sale.
Many luxury properties in these suburbs offer four or more bedrooms, spacious yards and high-end features such as wine cellars, home theaters, and swimming pools. Although home prices are generally much higher than the Chicago average, some buyers believe the added space, privacy, amenities and lifestyle justify the cost.
What are Some Alternatives to the Top-tier Wealthy Suburbs?
If you’re looking for an upscale suburb that’s a little more affordable, consider these options:
- Elmhurst – Offers luxury living without the very high price tag.
- Western Springs – A welcoming, family-friendly suburb with an upscale feel.
- Northbrook – A well-established community with excellent schools nearby.
- Evanston – Combines lakefront living, cultural attractions and easy access to Chicago.
These suburbs still offer great amenities and attractive homes, while often giving buyers more space and value for their money than some of the most exclusive communities.
Planning to Move to an Upscale Chicago Suburb? STI Moving & Storage Can Help
Moving to a luxury suburb often requires extra care, especially when transporting valuable or fragile belongings. Working with an experienced moving company like STI Moving & Storage can help make the process smoother and less stressful. Professional packing, careful handling and reliable transportation can help ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new home.
Whether you’re moving within Illinois or relocating from another state, STI Moving & Storage offers:
Full-service packing and unpacking
Climate-controlled storage options
Local and long-distance moving services
Customized moving plans for families, professionals, and retirees
Contact us today for a free quote and let STI help make your move to one of Chicago’s most prestigious suburbs simple, smooth and stress-free.
