Best place in the City to raise Kids? (Chicago, Oak Park: homes, purchase)

[HelloNY]

Any thoughts? Thanks.

[NSH]

What is your ideal environment?

[HelloNY]

My ideal environment is safe. That's the biggest factor. My kids are both infant/toddler age right now. I've read that the North/Northwest suburbs are nice, but I was just wondering if there is a place closer to downtown that is safe and a good place to raise kids (parks, etc.) Safety is the biggest factor, I'd say.

[NSH]

I would recomend Beverly/Morgan Park on the south side.

Low density
Resident turn over rate low
Active parishes
Active community groups
close to commuter transportation networks
diverse population
diverse housing stock (homes range from $275K to $1.4M, from new construction to 1880's 4 squares)
top education facilities from preschool to university both public and private in the city within the ward
Large historic district

Good Luck!

[jenrik2714]

Yes Beverly is a good area if your last name starts with Mc, O' and so forth. If you are irish, it is the place to be, if you are not, watch out. They do not like outsiders.

If you want more diversity, check out Garfield Ridge which is further west of Beverly.

[NSH]

jenrik2714, I am 4th generation Beverly and my family is primarily eastern european, I have never had any trouble regarding ethnic background in my 34 years of existence. My neighbor was born in Germany and moved into her home in 1958. My other neighbor is Korean moved to Beverly in 1977, no problems to speak of. We just ahd a new Italian family move in down the block... The 19th ward loves everyone, Black, White, Asian, Latino, and maybe a few of the Irish

[jenrik2714]

I must be thinking of Mt. Greenwood

[hawkfandan]

Lincoln Park & Lakeview....but bring your checkbook. Single family homes start at a mil. Plus you'll have to send your kids to private school.

[Octogirl23]

HelloNY, if your name is any indication, I'll assume you'll be moving from NY. I grew up in Chicago, but moved to NY and recently moved back. I also have 2 children (ages 4 and 5). While in NY, we lived in Pelham. We loved it because of the small town feel, blue ribbon schools, etc. That being said, we also wanted to purchase a home that had more than 600 sq. feet. We now live in River Forest, IL and it has all of the qualities I just mentioned about Pelham, NY. You may also want to look into North Oak Park and Forest Park, as well as Elmhurst, LaGrange and Brookfield. I have a friend that lives in Wilmette (along the North Shore) and she absolutely loves it! Hope this helps and Good Luck!

[Xing]

Give Oak Park a try.