If you are looking for a new place to move with your family, you should consider Illinois. This is one of the safest states in the country. There is a city for everyone, whether you are looking for a small peaceful place or a big city. Here, you can find some of the most amazing family-friendly neighborhoods with top-notch schools. Illinois offers a wide range of activities that are suitable for the whole family. You will never have a dull moment here! To help you decide which city you should relocate to, Verified Movers has created a list of the top places for families in Illinois! Read on!
Is Illinois a Good Place for Families?
Illinois is a great place for families, offering a mix of suburban, urban, and rural environments to suit different lifestyles. The state is home to many top-rated schools, which makes it attractive for those prioritizing education. With a variety of activities for children, from museums and parks to sports programs and cultural events, there is always something for families to enjoy. Illinois also has a strong sense of community in many of its towns and cities, where neighbors come together for local events, festivals, and activities that foster a welcoming atmosphere.
Additionally, the healthcare system in Illinois is robust, offering families access to quality medical care across the state. Public transportation options and proximity to major cities like Chicago provide convenience for commuting parents while ensuring access to diverse job opportunities. With its combination of education, community, activities, and infrastructure, Illinois continues to be an appealing choice for families seeking a balanced and fulfilling life!
Naperville
Naperville consistently ranks as one of the top places for families in Illinois. It’s known for its excellent school districts, making it a top choice for families with kids. The city offers a well-rounded selection of public and private schools, ensuring a quality education for children of all ages.
In addition to education, Naperville has a variety of family-oriented activities. The Centennial Beach, located near downtown, is a favorite among residents. It’s a large, community-focused swimming area that feels more like a lake than a pool. For those interested in history, the Naper Settlement is a popular stop, providing interactive exhibits about the region’s past.
Naperville also offers plenty of parks and outdoor spaces. Families can enjoy Riverwalk Park, which provides beautiful walking paths along the DuPage River. It’s a perfect spot for weekend strolls, picnics, or just enjoying some fresh air. The downtown area is also worth mentioning, as it has a mix of shops, restaurants, and activities for all ages. The median home price in Naperville is $573,499 and the median rent is is $2,430. Cross country moving companies Naperville will do their best to help you if you choose to move here.
Oak Park
Oak Park sits just outside Chicago, offering families the benefits of suburban living with easy access to the city. This town is rich in history and culture, providing an enriching environment for children. The schools here are well-regarded, and many families are drawn to Oak Park for its educational offerings.
Beyond education, Oak Park has a close-knit community feel. Many families take part in local events, and the town offers plenty of opportunities to engage with neighbors. The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio attracts visitors, but it’s also a great educational resource for families to explore.
Parks and recreation services are a huge draw for families here. The Park District of Oak Park provides a variety of programs and facilities, including pools, sports leagues, and day camps for kids. Families who enjoy outdoor activities will find a lot to love here, from nature walks to family bike rides. If you are considering moving here, you should know that the median home price is $420,565.
Schaumburg
The city of Schaumburg is located in Cook County and has a population of 78,723 residents. This place has a suburban feel, which makes it perfect for raising kids. The community is diverse and very welcoming. You will not have trouble blending in and finding new friends. Most people own their homes. The average price of a single-family home is $466,526.
This place is ideal for families since it has a lot of greenery, 1,1000 acres of grassy parkland in total! Your kids can participate in a lot of sports activities since there are many sports fields. If you love nature this is the perfect place for you. Pets are also welcome, there is a dog park for your furry friends. If you are interested in moving here, make sure to contact one of the cross country moving companies Schaumburg has to offer and start preparing for your move to Schaumburg, one of the top places for families in Illinois.
Waukegan
Located in Lake County, this is one of the oldest communities in Illinois. It has 87,157 residents. Waukegan is a suburb of Chicago. It is located only 26 miles away from the city. Downtown Waukegan has many great bars and shops. Kids can have a great education. There are:
- 3 early childhood schools
- 15 elementary schools
- 5 middle schools
- 3 high school campuses
The cost of living is 15, 2% lower than the national average. Home prices are low, which is great for those looking to buy a home. The median home price is $219,045. There are many things you can do here. Since summers are nice and worm you can spend a day at the beach. Organize a picnic, do kite surfing, or just go for a walk you will not regret it! There are even permanent barbeque grills that you can use! This could be a fun day at Lake Michigan. Whenever you are ready to relocate here cross country moving companies Waukegan will be at your disposal!
Perhaps Cicero
Cicero is a suburb of Chicago. It has 85,268 residents which makes it one of the largest municipalities in Illinois. This is a family-friendly place. It is safe and cozy. Most of the residents own their homes here. The median home value is $253,315 which is cheap compared to the national average which is $267,365. Moreover, your kids will receive a great education in one of the many schools that Cicero and its surroundings have to offer.
Everything is within a walking distance, supermarkets, stores, restaurants, etc. You can enjoy long walks in the park and spend your day in nature. If you work in Chicago, you can use public transportation. In less then an hour you will be at your workplace. If you want to live in a peaceful place than start packing for your relocation with cross country moving companies Cicero and make it a breeze.
Evanston
When it comes to the top places for families in Illinois, we must mention Evanston. Evanston is a dynamic college town that offers families a mix of culture, education, and recreational activities. Located just north of Chicago, Evanston is home to Northwestern University, adding an intellectual and cultural element to the town. Families love Evanston for its schools, which are among the best in the state. The Evanston/Skokie School District 65 provides excellent public education, and the town also has several private school options.
Evanston’s lakefront is a big attraction for families. There are several beaches along Lake Michigan, providing a great place for family outings. The parks in Evanston are also well-maintained, offering everything from sports fields to playgrounds for younger children.
Another benefit of Evanston is its walkable downtown area. Families can easily explore local shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. There are also numerous events and festivals throughout the year that cater to families, making it a lively place to live. The average home value in Evanston is $430,935. If you decide to move here, cross country moving companies Evanston are at your service!
Champaign
The city of Champaign is located in Champaigne County and it has 88,302 residents. The cost of living is lower than the national average by 7%. The housing cost is also lower. You can expect to pay $215,339 for an average home.
The educational options are great. The city of Champagne is home to the Parkland College. Moreover, with the city of Urbana, Champagne shares the main campus of the University of Illinois. On top of that many startup companies are based here. This makes finding a job pretty easy. You will not have to commute all the way to Chicago in order to find a well-paid job.
You will not lack green spaces, since here you will find 60 parks and 11 trails. If you are ready for a new adventure cross country moving companies Champaign can help you transport all your items here. Just make sure you start preparing on time.
Arlington Heights
Arlington Heights is a lively suburb of Chicago that’s popular with families for its schools and community spirit. The schools in Arlington Heights are top-notch, making it an excellent place for families who prioritize education.
Beyond academics, Arlington Heights offers plenty of recreational opportunities for families. The Arlington Heights Park District manages several parks, pools, and sports fields. Families can participate in everything from swimming lessons to soccer leagues. For entertainment, the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is a community hub that hosts plays, concerts, and educational programs for children. Arlington Heights also has a dynamic downtown with a mix of restaurants, shops, and family-friendly events.
The community is known for its welcoming atmosphere, with many neighborhood events and activities. Whether it’s a summer festival or a holiday parade, Arlington Heights offers a strong sense of community for families. It is one of the top places for families in Illinois. The average home value in Arlington Heights, is $434,920, up 6.8% over the past year. Moving here with cross country moving companies Arlington Heights is worth considering!
Elgin
Another one of the great places for families in Illinois is Elgin. The city is located in the Cook and Kane counties. It has a population of 114,797 residents. If you are looking for a place that offers top-notch education Elgin is the place that you should consider moving to! This city is home to the well-known Elgin Academy. A great thing about this place is that it has a small town feel but you will find everything you need just like in any big city. This place is so popular that the number of residents is growing constantly. You will never get bored here. There is constantly something to do. Therefore, start preparing for your relocation with the cross country moving companies Elgin and let them do all the work.
Rockford
Rockford is one of the largest cities in Illinois, located in the northern part of the state along the Rock River. It offers families a wide variety of activities and amenities, making it a great city for raising children. Rockford’s schools are well-regarded, with several public and private options available.
Families in Rockford enjoy easy access to parks, recreational activities, and cultural experiences. The Rockford Park District is one of the largest in the state and offers everything from sports leagues to swimming pools. A major highlight for families is the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, which provides a beautiful space for kids to learn about nature and gardening.
Rockford also has a rich cultural scene, including the Burpee Museum of Natural History and Discovery Center Museum, both of which are family favorites. With its affordable cost of living, the median home price of $160,500, plenty of family-friendly attractions, and strong community spirit, Rockford is a great place for families to call home. If you think that it is the best city for you, hire cross country moving companies Rockford and make the move!
Springfield
Springfield is the seat of Sangamon County. The city has 114,394 residents, which makes it the largest city in this county. For those that love spending time outdoors, there are more than 30 parks. Some of the most known are Carpenter Park and Illinois Nature Preserve. Moreover, there is a beautiful Botanical Garden that you should most definitely visit once the movers from one of the cross country moving companies Springfield IL deliver your items to your home. There are many courts for various sports in the city. When it comes to education you can choose from 6 public and private high schools. Springfield is also home to the University of Illinois Springfield.
Bloomington
Bloomington, located in central Illinois, is a lively city that offers a lot for families. Known for its excellent schools and safe neighborhoods, it’s a popular place for those looking to settle down. The city is home to Illinois State University, which brings a lively atmosphere and many cultural and educational opportunities.
For families who love the outdoors, Bloomington has several parks and recreational areas, including Miller Park and its popular zoo, perfect for a family outing. The Constitution Trail, a long network of trails for walking, running, and biking, is a favorite for residents of all ages.
Bloomington also hosts a variety of community events, including festivals, concerts, and family-friendly activities throughout the year. When it comes to the housing costs, the average home value in Bloomington, IL is $244,782, up 6.5% over the past year. Moving here with the help of cross country moving companies Bloomington is a good idea!
Decatur
Decatur, situated in central Illinois along Lake Decatur, is a city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and affordability. The average home value in Decatur is just $94,168. The city has a good school system and offers a wide range of public and private educational options. It’s also home to Millikin University, adding a college-town feel to the area.
Families in Decatur have plenty of recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing on Lake Decatur to exploring the nearby parks and trails. Scovill Zoo is a popular destination for families, and the Children’s Museum of Illinois offers educational and hands-on exhibits for kids.
The Decatur Park District provides a variety of programs for families, including sports leagues, swimming lessons, and arts programs. With its affordable housing, strong schools, and close-knit community, Decatur is a great place for families to consider. If you are considering it too, hiring cross country moving companies Decatur is you best choice!
Which of These Top Places for Families in Illinois Would You Choose?
Now that you have learned more about the top places for families in Illinois, you should be ready to choose one that you want to call home. All of the places that we have listed are great you just need to see which one corresponds to your needs the most. Whenever you decide to move to the state of Illinois make sure to hire professional movers who can help you with your relocation. This way you will have a serene move to your new dream home.