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Top 3 Best Places to Live Outside of Chicago
If you’ve been enjoying the holiday season at home or with family and friends, you might have realized the hustle and bustle of the city isn’t always for you. Here we explore the best places to live outside of Chicago that are close enough to commute, but far enough away that coming home feels like a vacation retreat.
Why Move Out of the City?
Living in Chicago is great for young professionals and those keen to step up the career ladder, but many of us quickly realize a community with a hometown feel has more to offer. When it comes to raising kids, putting the focus on your free time, or having space to relax and enjoy the outdoors, the Windy City can’t beat some of our other favorite local cities, towns and villages.
Location #1: The Village of Johnsburg, Illinois
Johnsburg is our number one recommended location with a hometown feel, close to Chicago. This adorable little village will have you feeling like you’ve come home even if it’s your first visit to the area. With neighborly neighbors and a real community feel, Johnsburg is a village where you can build a life for yourself and thrive. If you’re comparing villages near Chicago, Johnsburg is the hidden gem for you.
- Johnsburg is close enough to commute to Chicago or visit for a weekend, as it is located just 55 miles away.
- Johnsburg is a growing community with new business opportunities and new developments. There are beautiful new homes for sale and it’s the perfect spot to start your own business.
- Johnsburg has the quaint feel of a village, with old architecture, and outdoor spaces to explore. Although the community is growing, historic buildings and natural areas are preserved.
- Johnsburg has an excellent school district, with schools for students of all ages.
- Johnsburg is on the lake. If lakeside living is for you, you’ve found your new home!
Location #2: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva is a popular lakeside retreat visited by many residents of Chicago. It offers all the benefits of lakeside living, but without the close, village community feel of Johnsburg.
- Lake Geneva is a resort community, and hugely popular with tourists from Wisconsin and nearby states.
- Lake Geneva is a city, and is larger in area and has a bigger population than Johnsburg.
- Lake Geneva is a great place for architecture, in particular late 19th century mansions.
- Lake Geneva is in Wisconsin. At 80 miles away, it will take roughly 1.5 hours to drive there from Chicago.
- Lake Geneva makes a great lakeside retreat, perfect for beaches and boating!
Location #3: Evanston, Illinois
Our third location is closer to home for current Chicago residents. Evanston is a smaller city that is home to Northwestern University, plenty of restaurants, and beautiful beaches. If you’re happy living in a city, Evanston is one of the best places to live outside of Chicago.
- Evanston is just a 35-minute drive from downtown Chicago (depending on traffic), making it easily commutable.
- It’s a vibrant city with plenty to see and do, great for students, young families, and anyone that enjoys socializing.
- Evanston has a beach to enjoy, easily located in the city.
- Evanston has a low crime rate compared to Chicago, and good schools, but housing prices are higher.
Visit Johnsburg, Illinois
Wondering if Johnsburg might be the new community you’re looking for? It’s top on our list of villages near Chicago, and we’re sure you’ll love our home! We welcome you to visit our beautiful village for the weekend, and explore some of the new houses on the market at Running Brook Farm or Remington Grove. There is also an exciting new senior living community here in Johnsburg, for residents age 55+; take a look at Berkshire, Johnsburg, to learn more. For residents of all ages, Johnsburg is top on our list of the best places to live outside of Chicago.
To keep up with the latest happenings in Johnsburg, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
