Top 5 Suburbs People Are Relocating to from Downtown Chicago
Leaving downtown Chicago doesn’t mean giving up everything the city has to offer. For many residents, relocating to the suburbs offers a better quality of life: more space, top-rated schools, quieter neighborhoods, and homes that are better suited for long-term living. Whether you’re moving to a nearby neighborhood or a distant suburb, hiring trusted local movers in Chicago can make the entire process more efficient and less stressful.
In recent years, more people have made the move out of the Loop as remote work, rising rent prices, and growing families reshape priorities. If you’re planning a larger transition within Illinois or beyond, working with experienced long distance movers in Chicago ensures your move is handled with care, timing, and professionalism.
If you’re considering a change, you’re not alone. We’ve outlined five of the most popular suburbs people are relocating to from downtown Chicago—each offering a unique blend of convenience, character, and lifestyle. Whether you’re heading west, north, or looking for lakeside living, these communities top the list for those ready to start a new chapter beyond the city skyline.
1. Naperville: Suburban Living with a Downtown Feel
Located about 33 miles west of Chicago, Naperville offers a perfect mix of modern suburban convenience and community charm. It’s one of the largest suburbs in Illinois, with a population of over 149,000 and a strong reputation for family-friendliness.
Naperville’s downtown district features walkable streets, restaurants, boutiques, and scenic views along the DuPage Riverwalk. Residents appreciate the well-maintained parks, highly ranked public schools, and abundant community programs. Despite being a large suburb, Naperville retains a small-town feel with weekend farmers markets and year-round events.
For commuters, the Metra BNSF Line provides convenient access to downtown Chicago in under an hour. Those moving from the city find the transition smoother than expected thanks to Naperville’s vibrant energy, cultural events, and urban-style amenities. As of mid-2025, the median home price hovers around $615,000, offering more space than comparable Chicago condos.
Naperville is ideal for families who want strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and a community-oriented lifestyle without sacrificing access to city life.
2. Oak Park: Historic Architecture and Urban Access
Just 9 miles west of downtown, Oak Park is one of the most unique and accessible Chicago suburbs. Known for its historic homes and artsy vibe, it appeals to former city dwellers who still crave cultural richness without the pace of city living.
With a population around 54,000, Oak Park stands out for its diversity, walkability, and progressive atmosphere. The suburb is home to a large number of historic buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the tree-lined streets offer a blend of charm and function. The CTA Green Line and Metra provide quick commutes to the city, making Oak Park one of the best commuter suburbs.
Public schools here consistently receive high ratings, and the village’s sense of community is reflected in its local bookstores, theaters, and co-ops. The median home price is approximately $510,000, making Oak Park a cost-effective alternative to many North Side Chicago neighborhoods.
People relocating from the city appreciate the mix of space, history, and accessibility. It’s a popular choice for professionals, young families, and retirees who want the best of both worlds—close proximity to downtown with the comfort of a residential environment.
3. Evanston: Lakefront Living with College Town Vibes
North of the city along Lake Michigan lies Evanston, a suburb known for its intellectual culture, lakefront parks, and a thriving downtown. With a population of about 75,000, Evanston offers a unique balance between urban convenience and suburban relaxation.
It’s home to Northwestern University, which contributes to a lively atmosphere filled with art galleries, music venues, and academic events. The downtown core is lined with restaurants, cafes, and bookstores, while the lakefront provides miles of walking paths, beaches, and bike trails. For many city residents, this is one of the few suburbs that retains a downtown feel of its own.
Evanston also features excellent public and private schools, and its accessibility to Chicago via the CTA Purple Line and Metra makes it an easy choice for commuters. In 2023, Evanston was ranked among the best Chicago-area suburbs for commuting by several local publications.
The median home price in Evanston is around $485,000, with a mix of historic homes, newer developments, and lakefront condos. People moving from Chicago are drawn to its cultural amenities, scenic views, and vibrant neighborhood energy.
4. Downers Grove: Growing Families and Growing Appeal
Downers Grove is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after western suburbs. With a population of around 50,000, it strikes a balance between family-friendly neighborhoods and robust infrastructure, including three Metra stations with service to Union Station in just over 30 minutes.
This suburb offers spacious single-family homes, excellent schools, and a vibrant downtown filled with restaurants and retail. The sense of community is strong, with seasonal festivals, park programs, and local events that encourage neighborly connections. Residents enjoy a quieter lifestyle while maintaining access to Chicago via I-355 or I-88.
The median home price is approximately $475,000, making it a smart choice for those looking to move out of Chicago without moving too far. It’s especially popular with couples transitioning out of apartment living and families who want more room to grow.
Downers Grove may not have the name recognition of Naperville or Oak Park, but it offers all the amenities of a top-tier suburb with lower congestion and a welcoming atmosphere.
5. Hinsdale: Luxury, Privacy, and Premier Schools
If upscale living and a quiet setting are high on your priority list, Hinsdale deserves a look. Located about 20 miles west of Chicago, this suburb is known for its elegant homes, cobblestone-style downtown, and nationally ranked public schools.
With a population just over 17,000, Hinsdale offers a more intimate suburban feel while still being highly connected. The Metra BNSF Line serves the village, providing easy access to the city for professionals. Real estate here commands a premium: the median home price is over $1.2 million as of mid-2025.
Hinsdale attracts executives, physicians, and high-income families who want luxury, safety, and access to elite education. The downtown features boutique shopping, fine dining, and beautifully maintained public spaces.
While the price point isn’t for everyone, many former city dwellers find that the privacy, space, and security offered by Hinsdale justify the investment. It’s a destination suburb that offers long-term value, especially for those planning to settle in for years to come.
Moving from Downtown Chicago? Here’s What to Consider
Relocating from Chicago to the suburbs is a major lifestyle shift. The pace is slower, but the benefits—more space, quieter streets, and often better school systems—are real. Suburbs like Naperville and Evanston offer urban-like vibrancy with suburban advantages, while Oak Park and Downers Grove strike a practical balance of proximity and comfort. Hinsdale caters to a more exclusive audience, offering luxury and peace of mind.
No matter which suburb you’re considering, planning a long-distance or intrastate move from downtown Chicago requires thoughtful logistics. From navigating elevator reservations in high-rise buildings to managing delivery windows in HOA-regulated communities, every suburb brings its own set of challenges. Choosing professional movers who understand both urban and suburban environments can make a significant difference.
Work with a Long Distance Moving Company That Understands Chicago
At Poseidon Moving, we’ve helped hundreds of clients transition from high-rise condos and city flats to homes in suburbs like Naperville, Oak Park, and Evanston. Our team specializes in long-distance and intrastate moving services with guaranteed flat-rate pricing—no hourly surprises, no vague estimates.
We offer packing, storage, and furniture assembly/disassembly services tailored to Chicago-area relocations. Whether you’re moving across the state or to a nearby suburb, we handle every detail with care, professionalism, and transparency.
If you’re preparing to relocate from downtown Chicago, let us provide a clear moving quote, expert coordination, and a smooth experience from start to finish.
