$407,837Average Value$243Average Price per Sq Ft81Homes For Sale
Just north of O’Hare International Airport
Des Plaines' history dates back to 1857 when land was granted to accommodate the train running from Chicago to Janesville, which by 1869, would be a village of 800 people. The city grew as a result of the opening of Chicago O'Hare International Airport, just to the south, from 9,000 to 55,000 in 1944. That was combined with people moving to the suburbs from Chicago after World War II. "I grew up in Chicago but moved to Des Plaines to be closer to my mother almost 50 years ago," says Jan Goczkowski, a Realtor with Century 21 Langos & Christian since 1989. "My son is the current mayor of Des Plaines, so he's stayed too. We experience some traffic noise from the proximity to O'Hare, but it's something you get used to."
Today, the city of over 60,000 touts a robust transportation infrastructure to allow residents to get around town by bike, bus, or commuting to downtown Chicago by car. The historic downtown blends mainstay businesses and new arrivals with an eye toward revitalization. One of the city's major employers and revenue generators is the Rivers Casino, which opened in 2011 on the east side of Interstate 294 north of Interstate 90. "Taxes are affordable in Des Plaines because of the presence of the casino," Goczkowski says. "It generates about $5 million annually in revenue for Des Plaines, and a lot of the money is used to upgrade the city's infrastructure." Entertainment, dining and table games are spread out over 147,000 square feet.
Be sure to check out the historic Des Plaines Theater for their next show.
The Des Plaines River runs through the heart of the city.
The Des Plaines Metra is located downtown and can get commuters to Chicago in 30 minutes.
Rivers Casino opened in 2011 and offers free shuttles.
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Historic buildings in downtown Des Plaines
Downtown Des Plaines retains some of its historical buildings and businesses, including the nearly 100-year-old Des Plaines Theater, which was given a second life after the city purchased it and began renovating. “The casino pitched in money for the renovation costs,” Goczkowski says. Square Deal Shoe Store, down the street from the Des Plaines Theater, is a family-owned shoe store that has been in business since 1921, and also houses a small shoe museum.
There are dining options, including a 1920's style speakeasy and tavern. The Choo Choo has been open since 1956 and is a classic diner with the food delivered on a Lionel O scale toy train. Entertainment includes concerts, comedy and magic shows and special events around Christmas. More of the city's past is illuminated at the Des Plaines History Center in the downtown area in a 1907 Queen Anne Revival house. The June Taste of Des Plaines street festival features live music, local food vendors and a beer garden.
Families love taking their kids to the infamous Choo Choo restauarant in Des Plaines.
There are events that occur annually in Des Plaines including a holiday tree lighting.
Downtown Des Plaines is pedestrian friendly with wide sidewalks and numerous storefronts.
Be sure to check out the Des Plaines History Center near downtown.
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Flood risk near Des Plaines River
Many houses were built in the mid-20th century to accommodate the growth post World War II. Single-family homes include bungalows, cottages, ranch-style homes and Cape Cod. The median price is around $400,000, and the range is between $310,000 and $750,000. “Compared to western Chicago suburbs, this is affordable,” Goczkowski says. “Do we have million-dollar homes? Yes, but they are few and far between. The most expensive are the more modern homes that appear when an older one is demolished.” Many condos are downtown, with prices from $120,000 to $400,000. Townhouses are scattered and are from $220,000 to $550,000. “Inventory is low (as of Fall of 2024), and homes sell within 8 to 12 days if priced correctly,” she says. According to First Street, a website that tracks various environmental factors, houses near the Des Plaines River in the neighborhood’s eastern section are in a major flood zone. The CAP crime score index for Des Plaines is 4, which is right at the national average.
There are a number of newer condo buildings in the Des Plaines area.
You will find a number of bungalow style homes in Des Plaines.
The most common home style in Des Plaines are single story ranch homes.
Contemporary homes with brick facades and arched entryways can be found in Des Plaines.
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Public schools filter into quality Des Plaines high schools
Community Consolidated School Districts 62, 63 and 59 provide public education for kindergarten through eighth grade. The first two feature schools in Des Plaines and get B-plus grades from Niche. District 59 serves those living in the western part of the neighborhood who may attend schools in neighboring Elk Grove Village. That district gets a B-minus. Three high school options fall within two districts. Maine Township High School District 207 is rated an A-plus and is ranked the 23rd-best school district in Illinois out of more than 400. A few students could attend Township High School District 214, which has an A-plus grade and is ranked the 12th best school district in the state.
Some private schools include faith-based institutions and the Science and Arts Academy for gifted students. A couple of two-year colleges, Oakton or Harper Community College are nearby.
Central Elementary School has an average student to teacher ratio of 11 to 1.
Maine West High School is one of two high schools serving Des Plaines.
Harper Community College is a short distance from Des Plaines.
Oakton Community College is located in Des Plaines adjacent to a forested area.
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Des Plaines River Trail
Various recreation options are available around Des Plaines. The Des Plaines River Trail runs nearly 30 miles along the river. Prairie Lakes Park has multiple soccer fields, fishing ponds, an 18-hole miniature golf course and a skate and bike park. Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center is an outdoor water park with a lazy river, a zero-depth pool and a spray park for young kids. Minor league sports are available with the Chicago Wolves hockey team and Chicago Dogs baseball playing close by.
You can watch the Chicago Dogs play at Impact Field in the warmer months of the year.
The Prairie Lakes Recreation Center in Des Plaines has a lap pool for members to enjoy.
The Des Plaines River Trail runs for 56 miles and goes through the heart of Des Plaines.
Be sure to check out the 18 hole mini golf course at Prairie Lakes Park in Des Plaines.
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Two Metra stops
Metra stations are located downtown and 2 miles northwest at the Cumberland station. It's a 40 minute trip to the Ogilvie Transportation Center from the downtown station. The nearest CTA 'L' station to downtown Chicago is at Chicago O'Hare International Airport. The Pace suburban bus system provides local transportation. The nearest medical center is 2 miles east at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
Written By
Jeff Stapleton
Photography Contributed By
Joe Kirsch
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Joan Burny,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Des Plaines, IL sell after 21 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Des Plaines, IL over the last 12 months is $337,500, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
LOCATION, lifestyle, and convenience! This one checks every box! Ideally situated in the heart of Des Plaines, this newer construction 3 bedroom, 2.1 bath townhome is steps to the Metra (offering express service to the city) and minutes from vibrant downtown dining, shopping, parks, and major highways. Enjoy access to North Elementary, Chippewa Middle School, and Maine West High School, plus an
Classic expanded brick ranch on a corner lot in the Cumberland neighborhood. One owner for the last 65 years! Tons of windows and sunlight!. Original floors have been covered and are in great shape. Large attached garage with extra storage space above! Separate dining area and family room. Get lost in the giant lower level with a vintage bar, storage room, laundry room, and more storage. Large
Nice Single Family Ranch in the heart of Des Plaines Surrounded by all commodities! Brand new updates include: Cherry cabinets, granite countertops, SS appliances, tile, wood floors, in the bedrooms, totally updated bathroom, all new interior and exterior doors, trim, new roof! Huge private fenced yard for your enjoyment. Great value!
Welcome to a well-taken care of top-floor 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo in an elevator building in Park Ridge Pointe that offers unmatched peace and tranquility. With vaulted ceilings in the living room, 9-foot ceilings throughout, and abundant natural light, this home offers a spacious and airy feel from the moment you step inside. Enjoy hardwood floors in the main living areas, carpet in the
WELCOME TO 905 CENTER ST UNIT 208 - SPACIOUS, CLEAN & BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED Come see this bright and spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo located in the heart of downtown Des Plaines. The home has been very well taken care of and offers a comfortable, move-in ready layout. The open living and dining room features plenty of natural light and sliding glass doors leading to a large balcony that
LOCATION, lifestyle, and convenience! This one checks every box! Ideally situated in the heart of Des Plaines, this newer construction 3 bedroom, 2.1 bath townhome is steps to the Metra (offering express service to the city) and minutes from vibrant downtown dining, shopping, parks, and major highways. Enjoy access to North Elementary, Chippewa Middle School, and Maine West High School, plus an
Welcome to Suburban living only moments from the city and only blocks away from O'Hare airport! This beautiful, spacious, and Rentable townhome is primely located in one of the most commuter friendly parts of Des Plaines. This lovely property has 3 bed 2 baths and a full basement equipped with 2 washers and 2 dryers for added convenience, all within 3 levels of living space. Additional features:
Check out this Beautiful Duplexed Townhome with NO HOA DUES! Updated kitchen with granite countertops, hardwood & laminate floors throughout. 3-level home with vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light. Huge, easily accessible storage room (potential workspace!) with concrete floor and sump pump. Close to Chippewa Pool and local amenities, easy highway access for faster, and more convenient
First time ever on market! This corner penthouse unit with over 2,300 square feet of living space has been meticulously maintained by its original owner.Three bedrooms including spacious primary bedroom with balcony and spa-inspired bath. Gourmet eat-in kitchen, formal dining area, elegant living room with decorative fireplace and second balcony perfect for entertaining, fully appointed laundry
Introducing "The James" at The Landings, a luxury, new construction condo development located in Des Plaines. The James residence floorplans consist of thirty two-bed / two-bath condos and 5 two-bed, 1 one bath condos. Boasting wide-plank premium flooring throughout, this home exudes a sense of warmth and sophistication. The kitchen shines with updated slim shaker cabinet doors, brass hardware,
Introducing "The James" at The Landings, a luxury, new construction condo development located in Des Plaines. The James residence floorplans consist of thirty two-bed / two-bath condos and 5 two-bed, 1 one bath condos. Boasting wide-plank premium flooring throughout, this home exudes a sense of warmth and sophistication. The kitchen shines with updated slim shaker cabinet doors, brass hardware,
Introducing "The James" at The Landings, a luxury, new construction condo development located in Des Plaines. The James residence floorplans consist of thirty two-bed / two-bath condos and 5 two-bed, 1 one bath condos. Boasting wide-plank premium flooring throughout, this home exudes a sense of warmth and sophistication. The kitchen shines with updated slim shaker cabinet doors, brass hardware,
Introducing "The James" at The Landings, a luxury, new construction condo development located in Des Plaines. The James residence floorplans consist of thirty two-bed / two-bath condos and 5 two-bed, 1 one bath condos. Boasting wide-plank premium flooring throughout, this home exudes a sense of warmth and sophistication. The kitchen shines with updated slim shaker cabinet doors, brass hardware,
Classic expanded brick ranch on a corner lot in the Cumberland neighborhood. One owner for the last 65 years! Tons of windows and sunlight!. Original floors have been covered and are in great shape. Large attached garage with extra storage space above! Separate dining area and family room. Get lost in the giant lower level with a vintage bar, storage room, laundry room, and more storage. Large
Nice Single Family Ranch in the heart of Des Plaines Surrounded by all commodities! Brand new updates include: Cherry cabinets, granite countertops, SS appliances, tile, wood floors, in the bedrooms, totally updated bathroom, all new interior and exterior doors, trim, new roof! Huge private fenced yard for your enjoyment. Great value!
Well cared for 1 Bed/1 Bath condo featuring newly refinished hardwood floors & fresh new paint throughout. Eat-in kitchen, & large bedroom with good closet space. Slider out to patio. Laundry & storage just across the hall. Pool for residents to enjoy for summer fun. Heat, Water & refuse included in monthly rent. Laundry room in building with storage unit 1E.
Courtyards on the Park is located in Des Plaines, IL, just outside of Chicago. We are conveniently located to amenities like Flick Park, Community West Park, and Big Bend Lake. Situated less than 4.5 miles from both commuter stations, we make getting into the city easy and convenient. Call our leasing specialists to scheduled a tour of your new home today!
This spacious (over 1500 sq feet) 3 bedrs and 2 baths apartment is located in a newer building in the heart of Des Plaines, within walking distance to METRA, restaurants and shopping centers. On the outside, it features 2 parking spaces right in front of the building and a big balcony in the back. When you enter the unit, you will immediately notice how spacious it is. You will see a large living
Glen Oaks Commons is a sophisticated apartment community located in Des Plaines, surrounded by convenient shopping, award-winning schools, local museums and parks, and only minutes away from public transportation. With space ranging from 750 - 1,325 sq. ft. across a wide array of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom floor plans, we're sure to have a place you can call home. Residents benefit from various services
RENOVATED 1ST FLR LUXURIOUS 2BR CONDO WITH PRIVATE PARKING 10 FEET FROM THE BLDG DOOR. REMODELED KITCHEN AND BATH WITH STONE COUNTER. NEWER ENGINEERED HARDWOOD FLOORS THROUGHOUT. CENTRAL HEAT & AIR CONDITIONING. PATIO WITH PARK VIEW. ABUNDANT CLOSET SPACE, EXTRA STORAGE AND LAUNDRY ON THE SAME FLOOR. TENANT ONLY PAYS ELECTRIC AND WATER. IDEALLY LOCATED FOR EASY ACCESS TO ALL OF CHICAGOLAND,
Buckingham Place Apartments in Des Plaines, IL, is the newest and most luxurious apartment community you'll want to call home. We are conveniently located just minutes from the Cumberland Metra train line and downtown Des Plaines. Be the first to live in this premier luxury community. Enjoy the life you have been waiting for and the home you have been dreaming of - all just minutes from the
Beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath home with a functional and spacious layout. Main level features a bright living/dining room combo with hardwood floors under carpet. Kitchen offers eating area, pantry, and access to side patio for easy indoor/outdoor living. Lower level includes large family room with gas log fireplace, recessed lighting, and wet bar-perfect for entertaining. Cement crawl space provides
Your new home is waiting for you at the ReNew Des Plaines North & South! Known for our residential atmosphere, our communities are nestled in the heart of the Des Plaines/Arlington Corridor. Award-winning schools draw you in and the sense of community makes you stay. Enjoy the peace and quiet on your private balcony or join in the fun poolside. Ready to get out and get things done? ReNew
TOP FLOOR UNIT! Enjoy this sunny and spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment featuring a large living room filled with natural light. The unit offers modern LVP flooring throughout and a stylishly remodeled bathroom featuring a newer bathtub. The kitchen is equipped with Whirlpool stainless steel appliances, a double sink, and plenty of functional space that can fit a dinning table. Spacious
Discover the luxury, experience the convenience, and enjoy the location. Conveniently located in the center of everything; fell the ease of being moments away from restaurants, shopping centers, public transportation, O'hare Airport, and 294 expressway. Imagine the time you will save commuting, leaving you more time to enjoy the tranquil setting and luxurious grounds we pride ourselves in. At
Great opportunity to rent a fully remodeled top floor corner unit condo in the prime location of Bay Colony. This top-floor unit has been completely updated, including brand-new kitchen cabinets and appliances, new flooring, new can lights, and a remodeled bathroom. Additionally, the unit features a new water boiler, heater, and AC unit. The tenant is only responsible for paying for electricity
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