3 kids, new transplant to Chicago area (Naperville, Elmhurst: sales, house, neighborhood)

[fullymooned]

Hello,

We recently moved to the Chicago area (from Cleveland, Ohio) and are currently based in the western suburb of Lombard, IL. We have 3 kids, all below 10 years old. We are looking to buy a house this summer with a budget around $400K.

I work in tech sales and mostly work from home if I am not flying to the client site. My wife is taking some time off right now but plans to join the workforce after a year or so. She works in IT.

Is finding a neighborhood closer to downtown even an option? If so, what are some options?

What are some suburbs that I should look into? I love Glen Ellyn, right next to Lombard. I think it's a great neighborhood. Lots of charm and character.

[chet everett]

Lombard is generally quite a but more afforabable than Glen Ellyn. Perceived school quality is a big factor, Glen Ellyn also does have more charm. A bit to the east there is Elmhurst, which is larger than either and has some features that are absolutely worth considering including better Metra service, art museum, more vibrant core around the train station, and mostly well renovated schools.


If you look along the BNSF you should be able to find some good options in Riverside or Brookfield, as well as LaGrange / LaGrange Park. Western Springs might be over your budget, as will Hinsdale and Clarendon Hills. Might find something in Downer's Grove, also Naperville,