considering a move to chicago area (Glenview, Wilmette: rentals, house, employment)

[ChrisWilliams1]

We are considering a move to Chicago next year and would be interested in peoples' advice on places to live. Here are some of the things we are looking for and factors that will influence our choice:

1. Close access to a forest preserve or nature trails for daily walks.
2. We are a married couple in our mid-40's with no young children, so schools are not important.
3. We both prefer a small town lifestyle or as close to it as we can get. Living in a place that is quiet, especially at night, is the highest priority.
4. We will be renting a house and plan on staying in the area for 3-5 years.
5. Will commute up to one hour each way to work but would prefer to take public transportation rather than driving into the city. Place of employment would be in the vicinity of the Sears/Willis Tower.
6. Money is not a consideration if other needs are met.

thank you,

Chris

[Rlest8]

Your needs scream Winnetka.

The town is bordered by the lake on the east and the forest preserve on the west.
Although not important to you schools are very good.
Lovely downtown villages full of coffee shops, retail, etc. Very safe and quiet.
Plenty of executive rentals.
Train to city, near Sears Tower is around 42 minutes, even faster if you catch an express.

[ChrisWilliams1]

Thank you very much for the quick reply. I'll take a look at the place. Sounds nice.

-- Chris

[chicagojlo]

Lake Bluff may be interesting too although rentals in the village are a little harder to come by.

[chitown85]

Winnetka, Northfield, Wilmette, and Glencoe have everything you need. Plus they are close to the city so the train commute isn't that bad.

[847mom]

I would also throw in the Eastern section of Glenview. Forest preserve and nature walks galore!

[cubssoxfan]

What is OP's budget? House rentals in Winnetka probably are expensive.

[ChrisWilliams1]

As I mentioned in my original post, we are not constrained by any particular budget. Please do not hesitate to mention an area simply because it may be "cheap" or "expensive" if it fits the criteria I listed in my original post. Thank you so much to the people who have responded thus far.

-- Chris

[gramirez2012]

Barrington meets all of your criteria.

[Steve-o]

Geneva, although not overly quiet at night (but still quiet), sounds like a good place for you. Check it out when youre in town visiting, Im sure youll love it!