Homesick and checking out our options... (Chicago, Rock Island: crime, how much, transfer)

[ordinaryaveragegirl]

My DH and I were transferred to another state several years ago, and have an opportunity to move back. He's a native South Sider, and we're debating whether to go back there or move up north. We have three children (6th grade, 3rd grade, and pre-K), and are looking for a safe, family-friendly area with good schools (we would consider public, private, or parochial). We also like character, not exurbia. DH has ties to the Beverly/Mt. Greenwood area, and graduated from Morgan Park Academy, but we have friends on the North Side too. Any refreshers on neighborhoods or close-in, established suburbs would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[linicx]

Judging from members on this fourm, things have changed in Chicago in the last few years. I think Beverly gets a nod from almost everyone here. But, it may not be exactly as your DH remembers.

[ordinaryaveragegirl]

I have heard that Beverly is much more diverse than it used to be, and that Keller is one of the top schools in the state; Beverly always had a reputation for offering a great standard of living for families. All of those characteristics are pluses for us, as is easy access to Loop via the Rock Island. On the flip side, I've also heard that Morgan Park is hurting, mostly in crime and property values.

I'm curious how Mt. Greenwood is faring - that's where we moved from in 2003. When we were there, it was predominantly Irish and city workers, many with young children, and the housing market was very stable. I'm sure the economy dealt it a blow, to a certain degree, as has happened in many areas. I understand there have been some efforts to redevelop the commercial areas, particularly along 111th. How much has the area changed in the last several years?

[ordinaryaveragegirl]

Still looking for feedback, so bumping this up just once. Thanks!