The Best Western Suburbs for Commuters to Downtown Chicago

For many buyers in the Chicagoland area, proximity to downtown is a top priority—but so is space, schools, and suburban charm. The good news? You don’t have to choose one or the other.

If you're working downtown but dreaming of tree‑lined streets, quality schools, and a backyard of your own, you're in luck. The western suburbs of Chicago offer a perfect balance, with several towns boasting easy access to Metra lines, convenient park‑and‑ride options, and manageable commute times.

Here’s a breakdown of the best commuter‑friendly western suburbs to consider, with one standout addition: Wheaton.

🚉 1. La Grange, Illinois

Metra Line: BNSF Railway
Commute Time to Union Station: ~25 minutes

La Grange is a classic suburb with a vibrant downtown, walkable streets, and beautifully maintained train stations. With two Metra stops (La Grange Road and Stone Avenue), it offers great flexibility for commuters. You can easily walk to the train from many parts of town, and the park‑and‑ride lots are well‑maintained and affordable.

Bonus: Tons of shops, restaurants, and coffee spots near the station for a relaxing start or end to your day.

🚉 2. Downers Grove, Illinois

Metra Line: BNSF Railway
Commute Time to Union Station: ~30 minutes

Downers Grove has three Metra stations (Main Street, Fairview, and Belmont), making it one of the most accessible suburbs for rail commuters. The Main Street Station, in particular, is located in a bustling downtown filled with cafés, boutiques, and a classic movie theatre.

There’s ample parking, and homes within walking distance of the station are always in high demand.

Bonus: Express trains are available during rush hour, cutting commute times even further.

🚉 3. Elmhurst, Illinois

Metra Line: UP‑West (Union Pacific West)
Commute Time to Ogilvie Station: ~30–35 minutes

Elmhurst is a thriving suburb with top‑tier schools, a growing arts scene, and a well‑connected Metra station right in the heart of downtown. Parking is available, and the station is very pedestrian‑friendly. The UP‑West line is known for its reliability and frequent service.

Bonus: Elmhurst’s downtown is packed with dining and shopping options, and the town invests heavily in walkability and community events.

🚉 4. Glen Ellyn, Illinois

Metra Line: UP‑West
Commute Time to Ogilvie Station: ~40 minutes

Glen Ellyn offers a picturesque, small‑town feel with a charming downtown and a highly rated school system. Its commuter station is centrally located, and the park‑and‑ride setup is easy to use.

Bonus: Glen Ellyn often hosts events right near the station, making the town feel welcoming and lively—even during the workweek.

🚉 5. Naperville, Illinois

Metra Line: BNSF Railway
Commute Time to Union Station: ~45–50 minutes

While the commute is slightly longer, Naperville is a powerhouse suburb—and its Metra station reflects that. With one of the busiest Metra stations in the region, Naperville offers abundant parking, bike storage, and well‑maintained facilities. Express trains are available, shaving off precious minutes for daily commuters.

Bonus: If you're working a hybrid schedule or commuting less frequently, the longer train ride may be a small trade‑off for all that Naperville offers: award‑winning schools, dining, riverwalk, and more.

🚉 6. Wheaton, Illinois

Metra Line: UP‑West
Commute Time to Ogilvie Station: ~35–45 minutes (depending on train & stop)

Why Wheaton is a commuter‑friendly gem

Two Metra Stops: Wheaton is unique in that it offers two stations on the UP‑West line:

• Downtown Wheaton Station at 402 W Front St. 

• College Avenue Station at 303 N President St. 

Having a choice of station gives residents flexibility in choosing their commute habits, parking options, and even neighborhood vibe near each stop.

Commute & Parking Advantages

• The downtown station has a large number of commuter parking lots with daily fees and permit options.

• The College Avenue station offers additional parking and is slightly less congested, which can appeal if you live east or north in Wheaton. 

• Because both are zone 4 (fare zone) stations, the fare is predictable and reasonable for the commute. 

• The downtown Wheaton station recorded strong ridership numbers, making it one of the busier suburban stops on the line—an indicator of reliability and service levels. 

Community & Lifestyle Perks

• Wheaton’s downtown area (near the station) is vibrant, with restaurants, shops, and walkability that enhance the commuting lifestyle (grab coffee before the train, stop by dinner after).

• If you live a bit further from the station, the dual‑station setup means one side of town might be closer to the College Ave station, offering convenience and shorter car trips in the morning.

• With a commute that is very feasible for daily travel, residents can enjoy suburban life while still keeping downtown Chicago within easy reach.

Bottom line: If your priorities include a shorter drive to the station, choice in where you board the train, great parking options, and a strong community around the transit setup, Wheaton really checks all the boxes.

🚗 Tips for Choosing a Suburb Based on Your Commute

• Check express train availability during peak hours — some suburbs have more express‑service options than others.

• Visit the station and park‑and‑ride lot during your typical commute time to get a feel for traffic, parking and walking distance to your home.

• Explore the downtown area near the station — you’ll be spending your mornings and evenings in that zone, so liking it matters.

• If you work non‑traditional hours, look at the full train schedule — some towns have more off‑peak service than others.

🏡 Ready to Find a Commuter‑Friendly Home?

As a local real estate expert in the western suburbs, I can help you pinpoint neighborhoods that match your lifestyle and your commute goals. Whether you're all about walkability, want great schools, or need quick access to the train, I can guide you toward the perfect fit.

📩 Contact me today for a personalized list of homes close to Metra stations — including both stops in Wheaton — or to set up a neighborhood tour.