Relocating to Chicago from Michigan (Holland, Oak Park: house, rent, schools)

[S.Link]

Hi,

I was wondering what the best suburb would be in Chicago with 3 small children? I really want good schools and a community feel to the area. We would be looking for a house 5-10 years old in the 350's range. Any suggestions? Areas to avoid? Thanks!

[NSH]

Chicago is a little different urban experience than what you may be used to. The city of Chicago is attracting residents in droves FROM the suburbs, thus forcing the Urban poor TO sububan areas. Many small police forces are not having much luck with this urban poor and gang culture.

Places that were once thought as isolated are now overwrought with crime.
the NW is still pretty nice but it is not as nice as it used to be
I would avoid to the NW
Streamwood, Carpentersville, Elgin, Arlington Heights
the west
Aurora, Cicero, Westchester, Melrose Park, Stone Park, Maywood
the south
Harvey, Dolton, Markham, South Holland, Plainfield, Joliet

Sububs that are nicer and where you can still get a nice home w good schools for $350 are
Evergreen Park, Oak Lawn, Oak Park, Naperville, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Evanston, Palos Heights, Lockport, Lisle, Oak Brook, Schaumburg

Most of these homes are in older established neighborhoods so you may have trouble locating a home less than 10 yrs old, as most of the building in chicago in the last ten years has been happening in the city itself.

[TeacherMan]

Why did you post this question in the MI forum and not the Chicago one??

Just curious...