Looking for great elementary school neighborhoods (Chicago, Naperville: relocating, real estate, budget)

[medith]

Hi there....my family is considering relocating to Chicago for a job opportunity for my husband. I am a stay at home mom with a 4 year, 2 year, and one on the way. My 4 year old will be starting kindergarten in the fall of 08.

We are looking for family friendly neighborhoods with great elementary schools within walking distance. Our housing budget is approx...$500K.

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

[NYrules]

Originally Posted by medith

Hi there....my family is considering relocating to Chicago for a job opportunity for my husband. I am a stay at home mom with a 4 year, 2 year, and one on the way. My 4 year old will be starting kindergarten in the fall of 08.

We are looking for family friendly neighborhoods with great elementary schools within walking distance. Our housing budget is approx...$500K.

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

It really depends on how long of a commute you can tollerate because there are many areas to check out for housing in that price range where schools are top notch.

I would give Orland Park and Tinley Park a two thumbs up. The schools are great and the area is one of the only areas right now with the current poor state of the housing market that is still prospering (housing values are still going up) of which is basically due to the much anticipated, long awaited opening of I-355 which is slated to open this Veterans Day.

Schools in both towns are mostly all new or completely rehabbed where your child will be exposed to computer and chemistry labs, competitive sports, teachers of which over 80% have a masters degree or higher in education, and too much more to name. Here is a little on Orland Park's schools: Orland Park, IL - Presented by Village Profile

Here are a couple of ratings on Orland Park's schools. As you will see most of them scored a perfect 10! Orland Park Schools
Tinley Park Schools
Tinley Park is right up there in education too.

Here are some of the homes for sale. Orland Park Homes for Sale. Real Estate in Orland Park, Illinois

Tinley Park Homes for Sale. Real Estate in Tinley Park, Illinois

Orland Park, IL - Presented by Village Profile
Village Profile Presents—Tinley Park, IL
Good Luck.

[nanannie]

The poplular, in demand neighborhoods like Arlington Hts, Naperville,Geneva, St Charles,Elmhurst,Glen Ellyn, Wheaton all fit the bill. You really cant go wrong with any of them ,and they are such popular,sought after towns,it makes for a great investment. Visit the towns, find "home" for you and tell your realtor your request for a walkable route to school. You have many to choose from. You should find just what you are looking for in one of these burbs. You can also do a "search" on this forum to find out more information on any burb. Good luck to you

[acdevane]

Naperville most certainly fits the bill. The Illinois State Report Cards just came out yesterday. You can check out ALL the schools here.

[medith]

Thanks so much! This information is so helpful! Naperville and Downers Grove seem to come up again and again....It is so nice to have so many good choices!

[kewpie1957]

Evanston or Skokie. Both have great schools and nice walking neighborhoods. Good places to raise a family.

[HOWELL_STREET]

Dear Friends:

Personally, I like to promote the railroad towns of the Chicago suburbs. However, one has to first decide whether METRA railroad transportation is suitable for 'hubby'. IF he works in downtown Chicago, then the railroad system is okay But if he works on the edge(s) of downtown Chicago, then commuting via the railroad might be more difficult.
So with that in mind, let's promote Elburn, Illinois. The town is a very nice community with still a farming 'flavor' to it. Last February, the Union Pacific 'West Line' railroad completed its commuter service between Elburn to the Olgevie (sp?) station in downtown Chicago. In Elburn, you would find a very beautiful / luxurious (sp?) home for $500K. That's because the average price range seems to be about $350K. However, look at REALTOR.com - Real Estate Listings & Homes For Sale to check up on my statement, anyway.
After a busy / hectic employment day for 'hubby', then he will greatly appreciate the evening farmland atmosphere in Eburn, Illinois.

Carter Glass,
Wheaton, IL &
Cortland, IL

[Manigault]

Originally Posted by HOWELL_STREET

After a busy / hectic employment day for 'hubby', then he will greatly appreciate the evening farmland atmosphere in Eburn, Illinois.

That depends on how much mischief Wally and the Beaver got into that day.

[dbgaeclark]

I would recommend Naperville, IL...specifically Dist. 204, subdivision Tallgrass and Fry Elem. School. The school is fantastic, located within the subdivision (as is Scullen Middle School) and it is wonderful!!! The neighborhood is great (pool, tennis etc.) and the schools are too! I would highly recommend!!! We are moving from here and very sad to leave.

[csewfava]

My husband, 7 year old, 4 year old and I just relocated 4 months ago. I'm a teacher now taking a year off so that we can all make the adjustment. We decided on Lake Zurich which is NW suburbs, which could work. Would your husband be working downtown? I'm thrilled with our neighborhood and the neighborhood feel of our elementary school.