How Long Is the Commute From Wheaton, Lombard, Elmhurst & St. Charles—Really?
For many homebuyers moving to or within the western suburbs of Chicago, commute time is a major deciding factor. Listings may say “commuter-friendly,” but what does that actually mean day to day?
Let’s break down what commuting really looks like from Wheaton, Lombard, Elmhurst, and St. Charles, including train and driving options—so you can choose a suburb that fits your lifestyle and schedule.
Metra Line: Union Pacific West (UP-W)
Train Time to Downtown Chicago: ~30 minutes
Drive Time: ~30–45 minutes (traffic dependent)
Elmhurst is a favorite among commuters for a reason. It offers one of the shortest and most reliable train rides in the western suburbs, with frequent service throughout the day.
Why commuters love Elmhurst:
Express train options
Walkable downtown near the station
Easy access to I-290, I-294, and I-88
Best for: Buyers who want close proximity to the city without sacrificing suburban charm.
Metra Line: Union Pacific West (UP-W)
Train Time to Downtown Chicago: ~35–45 minutes
Drive Time: ~35–50 minutes
Lombard offers many of the same commuter benefits as Elmhurst, often with more affordable housing options. The Metra station is conveniently located near downtown Lombard, making daily commuting straightforward.
Why commuters choose Lombard:
Reliable Metra access
Good value for homebuyers
Easy access to major highways
Best for: Buyers who want a manageable commute and a bit more space for their budget.
Metra Line: Union Pacific West (UP-W)
Train Time to Downtown Chicago: ~45–55 minutes
Drive Time: ~45–60 minutes
Wheaton remains a top choice for families who still need consistent access to the city. There are two conveniently located Metra stops (Wheaton & College Ave) making it an easy choice no matter where in town you live. There's also quick access to I-88 and I-355 and residents find the schools, parks, and community feel well worth it.
Why commuters choose Wheaton:
Strong school districts
Charming downtown near the station
Express trains available during peak hours
Best for: Families who commute a few days a week and want a strong community atmosphere.
Metra Line: Union Pacific West (via nearby Geneva station)
Train Time to Downtown Chicago: ~60–75 minutes
Drive Time: ~70–80 minutes
St. Charles doesn’t have its own Metra station, but many residents use nearby Geneva. While the commute is longer given it's far west location, buyers are often drawn to the larger homes, scenic Fox River setting, and vibrant downtown. It's also easy to get out west quckly if you're commuting the opposite direction but still want to live in a decidedly suburban city.
Why commuters still choose St. Charles:
More space and newer homes
Strong community events and dining
Ideal for hybrid or remote workers
Best for: Buyers who commute part-time or prioritize lifestyle over daily travel time.
Metra offers predictability, less stress, and time to work or relax.
Driving can be faster off-peak but varies widely with traffic.
Many western suburb residents opt for hybrid schedules, commuting 2–3 days a week.
Here's a quick breakdown:
| Suburb | Train (Approx.) | Drive (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Elmhurst | ~30 min | 30–45 min |
| Lombard | ~35–45 min | 35–50 min |
| Wheaton | ~45–55 min | 45–60 min |
| St. Charles | ~60–75 min | 70–80 min |
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Welcome to The Thornton Team Residential, your premier real estate experts in Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, and Chicago Suburbs. As a top 1.5% producing team, we understand that a home is more than a property, it's about community. Led by Michael Thornton, a top-tier member of NAR with a proven track record, we are dedicated to making your real estate journey seamless. Join us in finding not just a house but a place full of awesome memories that you call home.