Living In West Chicago

West Chicago, IL, offers a unique blend of small-town friendliness, rich cultural heritage, and easy access to the greater Chicago area. Located about 35 miles west of downtown Chicago, West Chicago is an ideal place for families seeking affordable homes, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're buying your first home or looking for a welcoming place to raise a family, West Chicago could be just what you're searching for.

Why Choose West Chicago?

West Chicago is situated in DuPage County and offers convenient access to major highways, including I-88 and Route 59. The West Chicago Metra station on the Union Pacific West Line makes commuting to downtown Chicago simple, appealing to professionals who want suburban living with city connections.

Nearby communities like Geneva, St. Charles, and Wheaton offer additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Plus, West Chicago’s proximity to forest preserves and parks provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Explore West Chicago's Neighborhoods

West Chicago offers a variety of housing options, from historic homes near downtown to newer subdivisions and spacious lots perfect for growing families. The real estate market here tends to be more affordable than neighboring cities, making it a great choice for first-time buyers and families alike.

  • Prairie Meadows: Known for newer construction homes and family amenities.
  • Cornerstone Lakes: A newer development with parks and lakeside trails.
  • Historic Downtown District: Offering charming vintage homes and walkable access to shops and restaurants.
View Available Homes in Wheaton

Lifestyle & Recreation

One of West Chicago’s biggest draws for families is its abundant green space and recreational activities. The city’s park district offers over 400 acres of parks, trails, and recreational facilities.

  • Reed-Keppler Park: A massive park with sports fields, a skate park, a splash pad, playgrounds, and the Turtle Splash Water Park.
  • Kline Creek Farm: A living history farm where families can experience 1890s farm life.
  • West Chicago Prairie Forest Preserve: Perfect for hiking, bird watching, and teaching kids about Illinois’ native ecosystems.
  • Illinois Prairie Path: A multi-use trail for biking, running, and family walks.
See Beth’s Local Favorites

Exceptional Schools for Every Age

Families moving to West Chicago will find a strong commitment to education. The city is served primarily by Community High School District 94 and West Chicago Elementary School District 33. Schools here emphasize academic excellence, inclusion, and community involvement.

Top Public Schools

  • Community High School (District 94) – Offers strong academic programs and extensive extracurriculars.

  • Gary Elementary School

  • Wegner Elementary School

  • Currier Elementary School

  • Leman Middle School

Private & Charter Education:

  • Wheaton Academy (a nationally recognized private Christian high school)

  • St. John the Baptist Catholic School

Explore Top Schools in Wheaton

Real Estate in West Chicago

Whether you’re after a turn-of-the-century gem or a brand-new townhome, Wheaton offers a mix of architecture and price points.

  • Average Home Price: ~$386,000

  • Property Types: Multi-family units, single-family, townhomes, condos

  • Taxes: 2.5% to 2.8% of assessed value (West Chicago standard)

  • New Developments: Ask Beth for builder updates and pre-listing access

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Commuting & Connectivity

  • 60–65 mins to downtown Chicago via Metra

  • I-88 and Route 50 nearby

  • Pace buses for local travel

  • Plenty of bike and walking paths – over 80% of residents are within an 8‑minute ride of scenic trails and regional paths

Thinking of Moving to West Chicago?

Beth Lindner is here to help you find not just a house—but the right neighborhood and lifestyle fit. With 23+ years of experience and a deep love for Wheaton, she’s your go-to guide for buying in the western suburbs.

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FAQs

As of 2025, the average home price in West Chicago is around $386,000, making it one of the more affordable suburbs in DuPage County while still offering generous yards and family-friendly neighborhoods.

West Chicago features a mix of housing options, including:

  • Historic homes near the downtown district

  • Newer subdivisions like Prairie Meadows and Cornerstone Lakes

  • Spacious single-family homes on larger lots

  • Townhomes and condos for low-maintenance living

  • By Metra: Around 60–65 minutes via the Union Pacific West Line from West Chicago station.

  • By car: About 45–55 minutes via I-88 and I-355, depending on traffic.

  • Local transit: Pace buses offer additional connections to nearby suburbs and Metra stations.

West Chicago’s property tax rates average 2.5%–2.8% of a home’s assessed value, typical for DuPage County. On a median-priced home, that’s roughly $5,200–$7,000 per year.

Some local favorites include:

  • Reed-Keppler Park (with Turtle Splash Water Park)

  • Kline Creek Farm (a living history farm)

  • West Chicago Prairie Forest Preserve

  • Illinois Prairie Path for biking and hiking

Local Insight, Real Advice, and Community Highlights

From insider tips to market updates, Beth’s blog dives deeper into what it’s really like to live, work, and buy or sell in Wheaton.

5 Reasons to Move to Wheaton, IL

Discover what makes Wheaton one of the most desirable suburbs in the Chicago area.

Read More

Beth’s Favorite Local Spots in Wheaton

Where to eat, shop, and unwind—straight from someone who lives and works here.

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Wheaton’s Top-Rated School Options

A breakdown of public, private, and higher education opportunities throughout the community.

Read More

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Ready to Find Your Home in West Chicago?

Let’s explore the right neighborhood for you. Beth’s local expertise and honest advice will help you make a confident, informed decision.

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