UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
Downers Grove, IL is the #37 Best City to Live in the USA
| Downers Grove, IL Quality of Life Liv Score 627 How We Calculate Our Data |
|---|
| Civics | 80 |
| Demographics | 47 |
| Economy | 48 |
| Education | 59 |
| Health | 59 |
| Housing | 61 |
| Infrastructure | 72 |
| Amenities | 45 |
Why Downers Grove is one of the best cities to live in
Just 25 miles west of the Windy City’s loop, Downers Grove, IL, has its own collection of unique offerings. Residents can’t get enough of the city’s local boutiques, delicious dining and drink options, and more. In addition, residents can enjoy the Tivoli Theatre, a completely restored historic theater built in 1928 that is one of the few remaining large single-screen theaters left in the country. Plus, one reason this growing community of just over 49,000 people is one of the best places to live in the U.S.? It makes it easy for residents to travel, offering three Metra commuter train stations, and is closely located to O’Hare and Midway international airports. Oh, and did we mention how easy it is to get connected to the community? Newcomers quickly feel part of their city, thanks to fun local events and volunteer opportunities. As for outdoor activities, residents can find plenty of ways to stay active, like hiking the trails at the 150-acre Lyman Woods.
A few major employers include Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital, Midwestern University, First Health Group and Zachry Engineering.
Midwestern University
Residents are met with chilly temperatures from November through March, while the other months of the year range from pleasant to moderately hot.
Head to Lyman Woods for walking and bird-watching. The area is home to more than 300 species of native plants, including six species considered rare in the Chicago region.
Downers Grove, IL is Remote-Ready
Downers Grove is laden with parks, walkable streets and an uncomplicated transit system, making it easy to get to local cafes and coworking spaces where residents can plug in and work for hours. Plus, this charming suburb is just over 20 miles outside of downtown Chicago, so for the days that remote work isn’t an option, commute times are short.
What Locals Love in Downers Grove, IL
The family behind Anderson’s Book Shop has a long history in the Downers Grove area. (Their great-great-grandfather opened a pharmacy in nearby Naperville in 1875.) Today, the book store serves as a meeting point and caters to all ages of readers. Even more? Anderson Book Shop has provided thousands of dollars to support local schools through the store’s ABC Bookfair initiative.
Hit the links at Downers Grove Golf Club, the site of America’s first 18-hole golf course.
A free concert (blues, country, rock or oldies) is held on Tuesday evenings from May through August at Fishel Park.
Meet for drinks and delicious food at Ballydoyle Irish Pub & Restaurant.
You can find top-notch specialty brews at Alter Brewing Company.
An excellent transit system, abundant opportunities for outdoor activities and a welcoming community make Downers Grove a best place to live in Illinois.
Thinking of Moving to Downers Grove?
As a hidden gem to the Chicagoland suburbs, Downers Grove real estate has options for people of all lifestyles. For instance, young professionals and couples gravitate towards the downtown area, with its 3-story townhomes and condos conveniently located across from the commuter rail-line that transports to and from Chicago. On the North / North Central side and the Historic Brick Streets areas, you’ll find a mixture of newer luxury houses and historic Sears and Roebuck catalog homes for sale in Downers Grove, which is also in close proximity to the commuter rail. South Central Downers Grove is the most ideal for families as there are several sports facilities and outdoor spaces like McCollum Park and Patriot’s Park, with home styles varying in style, age, and price. There are many real estate agents in Downers Grove willing to help you find the perfect place for you.
Quick Facts About Downers Grove, IL
- Average Commute
- 24.28
- Median Home Value
- $391,938
- Med. Household Income
- $101,993
- Total Population
- 49,586
- Walk Score
- 43
- Median Property Tax
- $6,315
