Author: Cori Michael, Designated Managing Broker, Nest Equity Realty
After years of helping clients buy and sell homes in Chicago, I’ve noticed a common dilemma—many people love city life but eventually start wondering, Is it time to move to the suburbs?
Recently, a couple I’ve worked with on multiple home purchases in Chicago reached out with this exact question. They got married about 2 years ago and love everything about city living—the convenience, the culture, the energy—but now, as they start thinking about growing their family, they’re considering a move to the suburbs. The problem they brought up to me? They want to move to the suburbs, but don’t even know where to start!
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone! Many Chicago residents explore different neighborhoods within the city but feel overwhelmed when they start looking at the suburbs. With so many options, how do you even begin to narrow it down?
While I can’t tell you which suburb is “best” (as a Realtor, I follow fair housing guidelines and believe every buyer should choose the right fit for them), I can certainly help guide your decision-making process. Here are some key questions to ask yourself:
1. What do I love about my current neighborhood?
Start by identifying what you enjoy about where you live now. Do you love being able to walk to coffee shops and restaurants? Do you need easy access to public transit? Do you thrive in a vibrant, social environment? Understanding what makes your current neighborhood feel like home will help you look for similar qualities in a suburb. An agent at Nest Equity Realty can help you navigate this transition by matching you with a suburb that fits your lifestyle and priorities.
2. Do I want to move to an area with top-rated schools?
If schools are a priority, start researching what makes a school “top-rated” for you. Test scores? Extracurricular programs? Class sizes? Websites like GreatSchools.org and Illinois Report Card can help you compare different districts. You can also visit schools and talk to parents in the area for real-life insight. An experienced real estate agent at Nest Equity Realty can guide you through the process, helping you find a home in a community with schools that align with your priorities.
3. What hobbies or lifestyle changes do I want to embrace?
City living often means constant entertainment, nightlife, and cultural events. Suburb life, while different, offers its own perks—bigger yards, hiking trails, lakes, golf courses, and community-focused events. If you’re moving, think about how you want to spend your time. Do you want a suburb with a thriving restaurant scene? Access to nature? A tight-knit community with festivals and farmers’ markets? Nest Equity Realty has experts in every corner of the market to help give you resources to find a suburb that aligns with your lifestyle.
4. How important is the commute?
For many Chicagoans, the idea of a long commute is a deal-breaker. Consider how much time you’re willing to spend traveling to work or back into the city for fun. Some suburbs have express Metra train lines that make getting downtown much easier, while others require more driving. Maybe start here first and research the avenues of transport into the city if this is high on your list of priorities. Take a ride on one of these methods of transportation to experience it before you buy in! One of our agents at Nest Equity Realty would be able to pick you up from the train station to tour some homes of your liking!
5. What’s my budget?
Suburban home prices can vary drastically. Some areas offer larger homes with more land for the same price as a city condo, while others have luxury markets that rival high-end neighborhoods in Chicago. Knowing your budget will help narrow down which suburbs align with your financial goals. Your real estate professionals at Nest Equity Realty have a vast knowledge of all of Northern Illinois pricing and inventory in each market.
Next Steps: How to Start Exploring the Suburbs
- Take a weekend to explore – Drive through different suburbs, visit coffee shops, and get a feel for the atmosphere.
- Talk to locals – If you have friends or colleagues who’ve made the move, ask about their experiences.
- Work with a knowledgeable Realtor – Someone who understands both city and suburban markets can help you compare options and navigate the transition.
Making the move from city to suburb is a big decision, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. If you’re thinking about making a change but aren’t sure where to start, Nest Equity Realty is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us at 630-464-7701 or visit our home search to start searching for homes. With over 50 years of experience behind us and compassion to match, let us help you on your real estate journey today!
