Relocating to Rolling Meadows area (Chicago, Arlington Heights: housing, lease, work)

[HawkeyeMac]

I need some help finding housing in a solid area for my wife and I. We are in our late 20's. I am relocating from Kansas City to Chicagoland and my office will be in Rolling Meadows. Ideally, we would like an area with solid schools for the future of our family. We would like to get a house for around $300-350,000. A short commute is fine so any suburb around Rolling Meadows is fair game. Algonquin seemed to have newer housing for that range, but I don't know anything about the area. Please help. Thanks!

[efx2junk]

HaweyeMac,

If you are working in Rolling Meadows, I would not recommend living in that burb. If you're looking for a single family home in the area for 300-350K, I would recommend areas like Schaumburg, Palatine, or Arlington Heights. For that price range, most of the homes are aged (20 yrs). If you're looking for newer developments, Bartlett has grown substancially and has a lot of newer homes in your price range. Your commute to Rolling Meadows would increase to 20-30 minutes.

[HawkeyeMac]

Thanks efx2junk.

Out of the 4 burbs you recommended, which would you say had the best shopping, restaurants, schools, etc. I know some may be better in certain areas, but in general what do you think?

[law1013]

I've lived in all of those areas (except Bartlett), and all are within 15 mins. of great shopping (Woodfield Mall), near great restaurants, and for the most part have great schools. But like the previous person stated, for that price the homes will be a bit older. Another area close by you might want to consider is Elk Grove Village. Again, the house will be a bit older, but it's a great little town that's very family friendly. I think whichever you pick you'll quickly grow to love the area and all that it has to offer. I made the mistake of moving away to get more house for the money, and now I'm quickly learning exactly how important location actually is.

[bobsmith319]

There are many options for you! Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Des Plaines, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights, and Wheeling seem to be a good fit for you and your wife. Those towns have exceptional schools, and homes well in your price range. Good Luck!