Commuter-Friendly Western Suburbs: Metra Lines Explained

One of the biggest reasons buyers are drawn to the Western Chicago suburbs is simple: the commute. With multiple Metra lines serving DuPage and Kane counties, suburban living doesn’t mean sacrificing convenient access to downtown Chicago. Whether you’re commuting daily, a few days a week, or planning ahead for resale value, understanding Metra lines can help you choose the right suburb.

Here’s a breakdown of the most commuter-friendly Metra lines in the Western suburbs and the communities they serve.

Union Pacific West Line (UP-W)

Route: Chicago (Ogilvie Transportation Center) → Elburn
Why it’s popular: Reliable schedules, express options, and strong suburban downtowns.

Key Suburbs:

• Elmhurst

• Villa Park

• Lombard

• Glen Ellyn

• Wheaton

• Winfield

• West Chicago

• Geneva

• Elburn

Commute time:

• Lombard to downtown Chicago: ~35–40 minutes

• Wheaton to downtown Chicago: ~45–50 minutes

Why buyers love it:
Homes near UP-W stations are consistently in demand thanks to walkable downtowns, strong schools, and easy station access. Suburbs like Glen Ellyn and Wheaton offer charming town centers where many residents can walk to the train, shops, and dining.

Milwaukee District West Line (MD-W)

Route: Chicago (Union Station) → Elgin
Why it’s popular: Frequent service and affordability in nearby suburbs.

Key Suburbs:

• Bensenville

• Itasca

• Wood Dale

• Hanover Park

• Elgin

Commute time:

• Itasca to downtown Chicago: ~40 minutes

• Elgin to downtown Chicago: ~65 minutes

Why buyers love it:
The MD-W line is attractive for commuters seeking more affordable housing options while still maintaining a direct route into the city. Itasca and Wood Dale are especially appealing for buyers who want suburban space without a long commute.

BNSF Railway Line

Route: Chicago (Union Station) → Aurora
Why it’s popular: The most heavily used Metra line with frequent trains.

Key Suburbs:

• Brookfield

• LaGrange

• Western Springs

• Downers Grove

• Lisle

• Naperville

• Aurora

Commute time:

• Downers Grove to downtown Chicago: ~30–35 minutes

• Naperville to downtown Chicago: ~50–55 minutes

Why buyers love it:
With frequent service and express trains, the BNSF line is ideal for commuters who value flexibility. Naperville and Downers Grove consistently rank among the most sought-after suburbs due to excellent schools, vibrant downtowns, and convenient station access.

Metra Electric (Western Edge)

While primarily serving the South Suburbs, parts of the western edge of Chicagoland benefit from nearby access for those commuting east or south into the city.

Choosing the Right Suburb for Your Commute

When comparing western suburbs, buyers often weigh:

• Walking distance to the train

• Parking availability at stations

• Express vs. local train options

• Downtown amenities near stations

• Future resale value

Homes located near Metra stations often command stronger buyer interest and can provide long-term value—especially in suburbs with well-developed downtowns.

Why Metra Access Matters for Home Value

In the Western Chicago suburbs, proximity to a Metra station is more than a convenience—it’s a selling point. Even for buyers who don’t commute daily, easy access to Chicago expands job opportunities and lifestyle flexibility, making these homes easier to sell down the road.

Thinking About Moving Along a Metra Line?

Whether you’re commuting daily or planning for the future, choosing a suburb with strong Metra access can make all the difference. If you’re exploring Wheaton, Lombard, Glen Ellyn, Naperville, or nearby communities, understanding the train lines is a great first step.