$1,339,740Average Value$398Average Price per Sq Ft37Homes For Sale
Historic mansions along the shores of Lake Michigan
Originally planned as a secluded vacationers' community for the Chicago elite, Lake Forest today still feels like a city oasis for its 19,000 residents. Its historical houses, designed by world-class architects, feel like lavish vacation homes, and residents are always surrounded by recreational space, from Lake Michigan’s shores to country clubs. “We’re on the North Shore, so we’re close to the lake, but also surrounded by open land, giving us the best of both worlds,” says broker Alissa McNicholas with Compass Real Estate Lake Forest.
Lake Forest began as a retreat for Chicago’s elite, with planned streets and scenic views.
Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest offers trails for joggers and cyclists.
Lake Forest residents enjoy ample recreational space at Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve.
1/3
Grand estates with French and Tudor influences
Lake Forest’s median housing price is $1.1 million. While this is well over the Chicago and national median price, single-family homes in Lake Forest often sit on one to two acres with well-tended gardens and high square footage. Most homes here are French-, Tudor- and Colonial-inspired mansions, though there are some bungalows and American Foursquares selling closer to $400,000 and $500,000 also available. Notable architects worked closely in this community, like Frank Lloyd Wright, who designed the Charles F. Glore House, a 1954 midcentury modern abode with cathedral windows and an open floorplan. Closer to Lake Forest’s historic downtown, condo communities like Kelmscott also sell within the same multi-million-dollar price point as the single-family homes.
Most Lake Forest homes are French, Tudor and Colonial-inspired mansions.
Single-family homes in Lake Forest often sit on one to two acres with high square footage.
Some bungalows and American Foursquares in Lake Forest sell closer to $400,000 and $500,000.
1/3
Swimming and boating on Lake Michigan and golfing at Deerpath
Lake Michigan stretches along the eastern side of Lake Forest. Residents can access the lakefront for free through Forest Park Beach, where lifeguards are stationed from Memorial Day to Labor Day. People can also launch boats onto the water, fish off the piers or stroll along the walking paths. On the far southern side of the village, Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve provides another kind of experience. While people can’t swim or boat off the preserve, the 321 acres offer over 4 miles of trails, including a loop for birders. Part of Lake Forest’s parks district, Deerpath Golf Course offers lessons and weekly family rates. “Deerpath has an incredible summer program for kids,” McNicholas says. “We’re spoiled to have such a great public course in town.”
On the southern side of Lake Forest, Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is a gem of the village.
Deer Path Golf Course in Lake Forest has a driving range and is open to the public.
Forest Park in Lake Forest sits along Lake Michigan and offers scenic lakefront access.
1/3
Historic Market Square's local restaurants and high-end shops
In the center of Lake Forest, Historic Market Square functions as the community’s downtown. It opened in 1915, designed to feel European with Tudor and French influences, like the clocktower that overlooks the square. Local restaurants and high-end brands like Williams-Sonoma and Lululemon surround the green, where the benches under trees offer a spot for residents to sit after shopping and dining. More restaurants and supermarkets line Western Avenue.
On the far western side of the village, Conway Park at Lake Forest is sububran office park housing some of Lake Forest’s major employers, including Pfizer, Trustmark and the headquarters of the Chicago Bears football team. Built in the early 1990s, the sector has shops, hotels and a golf course alongside its healthcare and technology offices. Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital is also on the western side of town, another major employer for the area.
Downtown Lake Forest features a variety of local restaurants and cozy dining spots.
Le Colonial Lake Forest is an upscale restaurant with a stylish bar and al fresco dining.
Downtown Lake Forest includes local shops such as the cozy Lake Forest Book Store.
1/3
Summer concerts and a historic artists' residence in Lake Forest
Alongside Lake Forest’s outdoorsy lifestyle, the village also supports a lively arts scene. In June and July, Historic Market Square hosts Concerts in the Square every Thursday evening. The Gorton Center, a community venue for over 50 years, features musical performances, theater productions, film screenings, standup comedy, summer camps and popular events like the Chicago Comic Book Show. Ragdale, a historic Arts and Crafts mansion, hosts an artist residency program in one of the community's historic 19th-century summer retreats. The community also comes together to celebrate the village with Lake Forest Day, held on the first Wednesday of August. It kicks off with a parade where groups compete for the best float and a carnival at West Park.
A-rated schools and a private college in Lake Forest
For kindergarten through eighth grade, students can attend Lake Forest Elementary School District 67, which earns an A from Niche. The schools feed into Lake Forest Community High School, which earned National Blue Ribbon status in 2021 and has an A-plus ranking. Stretching across 107 acres in the center of the village, Lake Forest College offers a private liberal arts education.
Lake Forest College is a private liberal arts college in Lake Forest, founded in 1857.
Sheridan Elementary School is part of Lake Forest School District 67.
Deer Path Middle School in Lake Forest serves grades 747 students in grades 6-8.
Lake Forest High School is a public four-year high school and the home of the Scouts.
1/4
Two Metra lines serving the Lake Forest community
Lake Forest has two Metra rail stations, both connecting to downtown Chicago, about 33 miles south. Trains running from the Lake Forest station on the east use the Union Pacific North line. Also called Lake Forest, the station on the west side of the city is on the Milwaukee District North line, traveling from Union Station northwest to the village of Fox Lake. Interstate 94 runs along the western side of the community, also linking people with downtown Chicago. Chicago O’Hare International Airport is 25 miles away. In the winter, the village sends out plows to clear snow. Lake Forest’s violent and property crime rates are well below the state and national rates.
Lake Forest’s Metra Station provides easy access to downtown Chicago for commuters.
From Lake Forest, the Metra offers a direct route to the heart of downtown Chicago.
1/2
Written By
Caroline Ernst
Video By
Patrick Johnson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kevin Green,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Lake Forest, IL sell after 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Forest, IL over the last 12 months is $1,215,000, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Set on nearly two private acres in one of Lake Forest's most sought-after enclaves, this exceptional estate offers a rare blend of privacy, scale, and timeless design. The home features a chef's kitchen with a large island and custom cabinetry, seamlessly connecting to formal and informal living spaces ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The main-level primary suite provides comfort
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled home in Lake Bluff offering modern design, space, and functionality. Fully renovated in 2026 with a stunning primary suite and open concept layout, this 5 bedroom, 3 full bath home features a open concept kitchen, living room, and dining room area, a huge family room, attached 2-car garage, and a detached 6-car garage that's ideal for car enthusiasts, a
Enjoy maintenance free living in this beautifully appointed condo located in the highly desirable Crystal Point. This inviting top floor end unit offers an impressive 2,065 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, enhanced by abundant natural light from its desirable north and east exposures. Step inside to a spacious living room where large sliding glass doors lead to a private
Accross from a picturesque park, this designer-owned home is a rare and remarkable find - ideal as either a full-time residence or a sophisticated pied-a-terre. Meticulously renovated for effortless living, it offers 4,000 square feet of finished space (including lower level) designed for beauty, comfort, and low maintenance. Recipient of the 2025 Lake Forest Historic Preservation Award, this
Rare opportunity to own this beautiful lakefront home on almost 4 acres w/ 300' of Lake Michigan shoreline on coveted Mayflower Road. Located down a tree-lined driveway at the end of a private lane, this stately brick home was built in 1914 and features 7 bedrooms, 6.1 bathrooms, 6 fireplaces, original millwork, high ceilings, a gourmet kitchen, an elevator, a newer slate roof, and wonderful
This exquisite newer custom home just steps from South Park (a newly redesigned 12 acre park featuring a wide array of amenities) showcases exceptional craftsmanship and timeless style. A bluestone walkway, stone-and-stucco facade, and high pitch Vermont slate roof make a striking first impression. Inside, a thoughtfully designed open floor plan is enhanced by rich hardwood floors, expansive
Opportunity of a lifetime to own this spectacular Lake Forest estate, spanning over 5.27 acres with 570 feet of Lake Michigan frontage! After four years of construction, incorporating everything the most discerning buyer would expect in new construction, this estate was completed in 2019. Featuring a protected cove beach, 2 boat launches, a fabulous pool, spa, boathouse and garage space for 22
Nestled in the heart of East Lake Forest, this exquisite estate seamlessly blends elegant architecture with natural splendor, set on nearly three gated acres. Crafted in collaboration with the esteemed architect Darcy Bonner in 2010, it epitomizes a harmonious fusion of style, functionality, and serene Santa Barbara-inspired living. The property is enveloped by pollinating gardens, native flora,
One of the nicest custom lots in Lake Forest. Oak Knoll Woodlands showcases 16 lots all featuring high end custom homes. Only a few remain. Lot 15 is arguably one of the best with a combination of woods and lots of sun for swimming pool for those with that interest. You can use our custom builder or purchase outright and work with your own. Hurry only a few lots remaining! Lots 8,10 and 11
Unique opportunity to build your custom home using your own architect and builder in this newly formed cul-de-sac Lake Forest subdivision, The Preserve at Westleigh. One of 9 incredible home sites with unobstructed views of Lake Forest Open Lands.
Donna MancusoJameson Sotheby's International Realty
Prepare to be impressed! Step inside this amazing spacious duplex that lives like a single family residence. The inviting 2 story foyer is the perfect welcome to this lovely home with it's fresh paint and just refinished hardwood floors. The living room is spacious with a gorgeous gas fireplace and easy access to sliding glass doors out to the yard and brick patio. There is a bright and generous
Maureen O'Grady-TuohyBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
A Quintessential Lake Forest Manor with Storied Legacy and Timeless Elegance. Perched on 2.5 acres along Lake Road, this iconic Lake Forest estate offers a rare blend of architectural pedigree, historical significance, and modern refinement. Originally designed in 1907 by renowned architect Howard Van Doren Shaw for Helen Poole Thompson, the home stands as a testament to early 20th-century
Experience luxury living in this exceptional estate located on nearly two private acres in one of Lake Forest's most desirable enclaves. This expansive residence offers over 10,000 square feet of beautifully designed living space, combining privacy, elegance, and functionality. The home features a spacious chef's kitchen with a large island, custom cabinetry, and high-end finishes, seamlessly
FULLY RENOVATED top-floor condo offering low-maintenance living in a secure, professionally maintained building in downtown Lake Forest! Located on the third floor with western exposure, the unit receives consistent natural light throughout the day & features an open, efficient layout designed for practical daily living. RECENT UPDATES INCLUDE fresh paint, luxury engineered wood laminate
Jim StarwaltBetter Homes and Garden Real Estate Star Homes
Spacious and thoughtfully designed, this home offers a flexible floor plan suited for comfortable everyday living. The first-floor primary suite features a private en-suite bath and a large walk-in closet. A second bedroom and full bath on the main level provide ideal space for guests or a home office. The kitchen is well equipped with cherry cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel
Liz Anderson@properties Christie's International Real Estate
This captivating home effortlessly combines elegance and comfort, offering spacious rooms designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Soaring ceilings create an open, airy feel, while the gourmet kitchen-complete with granite countertops, a breakfast bar, and a cozy dining nook-provides the perfect setting for meals with loved ones. The inviting family room features a stunning fireplace and
A wonderful opportunity in the H.O. Stone neighborhood of Lake Forest. This mid-century modern split-level home has three bedrooms upstairs, a fourth bedroom/office downstairs, 2.5 bathrooms, and a two-car garage with an attached workroom. The living room and dining room boast hardwood flooring and large windows projecting natural light and tranquil views of the front yard, while the family room
Jennifer NooneBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
Transformed Storybook Cottage One Block From Downtown Lake Forest. Just moments from the train, shopping, dining, and the beach. Tucked along a quiet enclave in East Lake Forest, this extensively renovated 1925 gabled cottage offers the best of in-town living just down the street. Storybook charm gives the home instant curb appeal while bright, sunny interiors blend vintage character with modern
Newer rehabbed down to the studs 3 bed 1.1 bath single family. Newer kitchen and appliances, bathrooms, flooring, blinds, washer and dryer, carpet, and paint. Wonderful front and rear porches with a shared rear yard and driveway that can hold 3 cars. Superb Lake Forest location steps to town, train, award-winning schools, parks, bike trails(Robert Mcclory Path), and the Lake! Easy access to Lake
Fabulous 4100 sf all brick Georgian poised on gorgeous oversized lot in popular Onwentsia Gardens neighborhood! This 5 bedroom, 4 bath home features all hardwood floors on 1st floor, walnut inlay in the foyer, updated white kitchen, new baths, Kolbe and Kolbe true divided windows, new roof (2023) with copper flashings and gutters! Two story foyer showcases grand staircase, spectacular views of
Exclusive Adler estate on 5.4 acres! Walk to town from Suffield House, one of renowned architect David Adler's most beautiful and important country homes, and certainly one of the most desirable homes along Chicago's North Shore. Built in 1934 for Mrs. Lolita Armour, nothing was spared in creating this 15,000 sq ft neo-classical French chateau. This 5.4-acre private property is in the heart of
Mona Hellinga@properties Christie's International Real Estate
The Residences at Amberley Woods - 3bed/2.5bath in Lake Forest close to everything. No detail was missed in this stately English Manor architecture nestled among a private serene setting. This 3bed/2.5bath condo quality home is a standout. Your stunning kitchen includes quartz countertops, vibrant cabinetry, vent hood and top-of-the line stainless steel appliances. The kitchen opens to the
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
