West Suburbs Relocation Advice (Chicago, Downers Grove: rentals, homes, elementary schools)

[swkettle]

Hi,
I am going to be relocating from Fort Wayne, IN to the Chicago area in a couple of months for a job relocation. I lived in Chicago for a year about 6 years ago, on the NW side, and loved it, however this time will be a different scenario as I'll be moving with my wife and 1 year old. My office will be in the Oak Brook area, and we would like to live in a nearby suburb that is safe and has good schools, at least good elementary schools in a few years. I'm looking to rent, ideally a house, for no more than $1600 a month, so I'm sure some areas like Oak Brook will be out of the question. Any advice or comments about good areas that fit my budget and criteria are appreciated. Thanks.

[TempesT68]

I'd give lombard, downers grove, or lisle a shot. Those i think would be your best bet staying in that area and budget.

[chet everett]

Renting a single family home might be a good option, east of Oak Brook towns like LaGrange, Countryside, Western Springs, Lagrqnge Park and Brookfield are all safe and have mostly acceptable elementary to desirable elementary schools. The towns mentioned above may also be good options, but they commute times to parts of Downers Grove and Lisle re probably going to be higher.

Towns south of Oak Brook like Hinsdale and Clarendon Hills tend to be even more expensive for rentals, but there are a handful of smaller homes that landlords can afford to lease for not too much more than your budge, but expect maybe a one car garage if any, minimal number of bedrooms, out dated kitchens/ baths...

[swkettle]

Thanks for the info.