Moving to Chicago's Suburbs: What You Should Know Before Leaving the City

If you're considering trading your city skyline for tree-lined streets, you're not alone. Every year, thousands of Chicagoans make the leap from the city to the suburbs in search of more space, quieter neighborhoods, and a different pace of life. But while the suburbs come with many perks, the transition isn't always seamless. Before you pack your bags and say goodbye to your favorite coffee shop on the corner, here’s what you should know.

1. Your Commute Might Change—A Lot

One of the biggest trade-offs is the daily commute. Many suburbs boast access to Metra stations and expressways, but depending on where you land, your trip downtown could range from 30 minutes to over an hour. If you’re used to hopping on the CTA, plan a few test runs to see how your future commute fits into your lifestyle.

🚌 Tip: Look for suburbs with convenient Metra access like Oak Park, Evanston, or La Grange if you plan to keep a job in the city.

2. More Space, More Responsibility

Yes, you’ll probably gain square footage—a yard, maybe even a garage—but that extra space comes with more maintenance. Unlike a city condo, no one’s shoveling your driveway or cutting your grass unless you hire someone. It's a shift from convenience to ownership.

🌳 Tip: Budget for lawn care, snow removal, and home repairs. These can be overlooked expenses for city dwellers used to managed buildings.

3. The Pace Is Different

Suburban life tends to be quieter and slower. Restaurants might close earlier. There might not be a new pop-up every weekend. That can be peaceful—or it can feel isolating, especially if you're used to the energy of city life.

🧘 Tip: If community and social life are important to you, look for suburbs with vibrant downtown areas like Naperville, Elmhurst, or Oak Park.

4. You’ll Likely Need a Car

In many suburbs, a car isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. Grocery stores, schools, restaurants, and even train stations may be a few miles apart. If you've relied on walking, biking, or ride shares in the city, this will be a significant adjustment.

🚗 Tip: Factor in the cost of a second car if you’re a multi-adult household. And don’t forget insurance, gas, and parking costs.

5. Schools Are a Huge Draw—But Do Your Research

Many families move to the suburbs specifically for public schools. While the reputation of suburban schools is generally strong, they can vary widely by district. Don't assume every suburb automatically guarantees a top-tier education.

🏫 Tip: Research school ratings, visit campuses, and talk to local parents. Websites like GreatSchools.org can be a helpful starting point.

6. You’ll Gain a Different Kind of Community

In the city, community can mean chatting with your barista, bumping into neighbors at the dog park, or joining a local gym. In the suburbs, the sense of community often comes through schools, neighborhood associations, block parties, and local events.

🤝 Tip: Get involved! Attend school board meetings, join a local Facebook group, or volunteer. It’s the quickest way to feel connected.

7. Your Money Goes Further—But Costs Don’t Disappear

Housing prices per square foot are generally lower in the suburbs, and you might get more for your money. But property taxes in Illinois can be high—especially in well-rated school districts. You may also spend more on transportation, utilities, and home upkeep.

💸 Tip: Make a full budget, not just a mortgage estimate. Compare actual costs of suburban vs. city living to get the full picture.

Final Thoughts

Moving to the suburbs from Chicago isn’t just a change of address—it’s a shift in lifestyle. For many, it’s a worthwhile transition that brings more space, better schools, and a sense of calm. For others, the city’s energy is too hard to give up. Either way, understanding what to expect can make all the difference in a smooth, satisfying move.

Thinking about making the move? Let us know what neighborhoods you’re eyeing or if you want a custom suburb guide—Chicago has plenty to choose from!