The Western Suburbs Buyers Often Overlook

When buyers start researching Chicago’s western suburbs, they often gravitate toward the names they already know: Naperville, Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Downers Grove, Elmhurst and Hinsdale. And for good reason—these communities have established neighborhoods, popular downtowns, Metra access, restaurants, parks and plenty of amenities.

But one of my favorite parts of working in the western suburbs is showing buyers what exists just beyond the communities they initially had in mind.

There are plenty of towns that don't always get the same attention but can offer a great combination of location, homes, amenities, character and access to everything buyers are looking for. Sometimes, expanding your search by just a few miles can open up a whole new set of possibilities.

Here are a few western suburbs I think buyers should have on their radar:

1. Winfield

Small town feel. Big convenience.

Winfield is one of those communities that can be easy to overlook because of its smaller size—but that's part of its charm. The village has a quaint downtown, a Metra station on the Union Pacific West line and a location that puts you just minutes from Wheaton and several major western-suburban amenities.

Winfield is also home to Central DuPage Hospital, Cantigny Park is nearby, and residents have easy access to the restaurants, shopping and events in neighboring communities.

For buyers who want a quieter, more intimate community without feeling removed from everything, Winfield is worth a look.

2. Warrenville

Close to the action without being in the middle of it.

Warrenville sits between Wheaton and Naperville, giving residents easy access to two of the western suburbs' biggest downtowns and all the shopping, restaurants and entertainment that come with them.

The community has a mix of established neighborhoods, newer developments, townhomes and single-family homes, so buyers can find a variety of housing options.

Its location is one of its biggest advantages. You can be close to Naperville, Wheaton, Cantera, major employers and plenty of outdoor recreation while still enjoying a community that feels a little more tucked away.

3. West Chicago

More space, more options and a downtown of its own.

West Chicago is another community that deserves more attention from buyers who want to expand their search. It has its own historic downtown, a Metra station and a mix of established neighborhoods and newer developments.

You'll find everything from older homes with character to newer construction and properties with larger lots. And because West Chicago borders communities like Wheaton, Winfield, Geneva and St. Charles, you're never far from the restaurants, shopping and amenities in the surrounding area.

It's a particularly interesting option for buyers who want a little more space without giving up access to the western suburbs.

4. Westmont

A great option for Downers Grove fans.

If you've fallen in love with Downers Grove but aren't finding quite what you're looking for, don't forget to look just east.

Westmont has its own Metra station and a growing downtown with restaurants, shops and community events. It's also close to Downers Grove, Oak Brook and other major shopping and dining destinations.

For buyers who want a convenient commute, access to established western-suburban amenities and a walkable downtown environment, Westmont is definitely worth adding to the list.

5. Lombard

Convenient, established and full of personality.

Lombard sometimes gets overshadowed by its neighbors, but its location is hard to beat. It sits between Wheaton, Glen Ellyn and Downers Grove and offers its own Metra station, downtown restaurants and shops, parks and a wide range of housing.

You'll find everything from older homes with character to updated properties, townhomes and condos. The community also has plenty of established neighborhoods with mature trees and landscaping.

And, of course, Lombard is famous for Lilacia Park—a beautiful spot that gives the community a little extra personality.

6. Plainfield

A different side of the western suburbs.

Plainfield is worth considering if your idea of the perfect home includes more space, newer neighborhoods or a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences.

Its historic downtown offers restaurants, shops and local businesses, while surrounding areas have everything from newer subdivisions to larger homes and lots. Plainfield also provides easy access to Naperville, making it an option for buyers who like the Naperville area but want to expand their search.

It's a good reminder that the western suburbs don't stop at the communities that get the most attention.

Don't Stop at the City Limits

One of the biggest mistakes buyers can make is deciding on a town before they've really explored the surrounding area.

Maybe you love Wheaton but haven't considered Winfield or West Chicago. Maybe you love Naperville but haven't looked at Warrenville or Plainfield. Or maybe Downers Grove is your ideal location, but Westmont could give you another set of options.

The goal isn't to convince you to live somewhere you don't love. It's to help you understand what else is nearby.

Sometimes the town you've been searching for is one town over.

And that's one of the reasons I love helping buyers explore the western suburbs. We can start with what you already know you want—commute, schools, downtown, lot size, home style, budget, restaurants, parks or whatever matters most to you—and then expand the map from there.

You might be surprised by what you find.

School assignments, property taxes and other factors can vary by exact address, even within the same community. Always verify the details for a specific property before making a decision.