$1,406,983Average Value$405Average Price per Sq Ft51Homes 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Written By
Caroline Ernst
Video By
Patrick Johnson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Lake Forest, IL sell after 33 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 $1,275,000, up 6% 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
Luxury Lake Forest Home First Time on the Market! Welcome to this sun-filled architectural masterpiece, custom-built in 2006 and meticulously maintained by its original owners. Spanning 3,400 square feet of seamless, open-concept living across three fully functional levels, this 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home redefines spaciousness. Elegant 9-foot ceilings grace every single floor, creating an
A rare Lake Forest gem that truly has it all! This exceptional 4-bedroom, 31/2-bath home offers a versatile first-floor den that can easily serve as a 5th bedroom, with a full bath conveniently adjacent. The spectacular sunroom addition creates an inviting gathering space filled with natural light and opens directly to a sprawling, beautifully landscaped backyard and impressive deck-perfect for
William PlattJameson Sotheby's International Realty
Situated on 1.38 lush acres just steps from the Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve and Elawa Farm, this sprawling ranch is a true haven for nature and recreation lovers. From the private courtyard, accessible from many rooms, to the serene indoor pool, this home is a delight in all seasons! The flexible one-story floor plan is open and bright and features cathedral and wood-beamed ceilings, 3
Beautifully maintained second-floor condo in Crystal Point offering lovely treetop views and an unbeatable downtown Lake Forest location. The spacious living and dining room features luxury vinyl flooring and a new sliding glass door (2023) that opens to a private west-facing balcony, perfect for enjoying afternoon sun and sunset views. The bright white kitchen includes white appliances, a
Lisa Trace@properties Christie's International Real Estate
SWEETNESS! Welcome to this delightful treasure in it's highly desirable EAST LAKE FOREST location. The character and charm will WOW you! As you enter this amazing home you will be welcomed by a bright living room with a gorgeous fireplace. Here it adjoins to the lovely dining room. These rooms have great hardwood floors and great natural light. You will love the very spacious sun lit family room
Maureen O'Grady-TuohyBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
Located in the heart of Lake Forest's Historic District, 464 Oakwood Avenue seamlessly blends timeless architectural character with today's modern comforts. Known as the historic John J. McIntyre House, this beautifully updated residence offers approximately 3,700 square feet of living space with five bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, and exceptional attention to detail throughout. A welcoming
A true private resort set on two beautifully landscaped acres, this extraordinary coastal-inspired estate offers a lifestyle rarely found on Chicago's North Shore. Designed as the ultimate retreat for both relaxation and entertaining, the property centers around a breathtaking outdoor oasis featuring a sparkling saltwater swimming pool, hot tub, expansive terraces, and a serene stocked pond where
Lisa Trace@properties Christie's International Real Estate
EXTRAORDINARY VALUE! Enjoy multigenerational living if desired under one roof, delivering maximum space, privacy, and functionality! Beyond a private gated entrance on nearly 2 beautifully landscaped acres, this exceptional all-brick estate offers an impressive combination of timeless elegance, modern updates, and extraordinary living space. With 7,700 square feet above grade, this luxurious
Ann Lyon@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Welcome to 1441 Kathryn Lane-an extraordinary estate where timeless elegance meets breathtaking natural beauty. From the moment you step into the grand two-story foyer, you'll be captivated by the sweeping staircase, exquisite custom millwork, and gleaming marble floors that set the tone for this truly exceptional residence. The elegant formal dining room features rich hardwood flooring, dual
Maureen O'Grady-TuohyBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
Brand new construction - Early Fall 2026 Completion! Interior listing photos are of the neighboring model home. If offer comes this month, buyer can choose to customize many finishes, cabinet color, etc. Call for details! 270 Majestic Oak is a true luxury estate. This thoughtfully designed home blends timeless architecture with a modern day spacious floor plan that includes a desirable
Elizabeth JakaitisJameson Sotheby's International Realty
This sprawling Tudor style estate is nestled on nearly 10 enchanting acres. Fully fenced, this amazing property borders a public prairie reserve that has been restored to and beyond the historic Jens Jensen design. The grounds are the design pallet that has created award winning gardens across the entire North-Shore and Wisconsin. Featuring a butterfly garden, an organic potager garden, orchard,
Donna MancusoJameson Sotheby's International Realty
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
Luxury Estate Rental in Lake Forest, Illinois | Chicago North Shore Executive Home for Lease Discover one of the finest luxury rental homes available in Lake Forest. Situated on a private 1.73-acre gated estate, this executive rental offers over 5,400 square feet of living space with 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths, 2 half baths. The residence features a designer kitchen, multiple entertaining spaces,
A rare and private East Lake Forest offering, this beautifully restored brick manor offers a natural ravine setting on nearly an acre set behind historic estate gates. The interiors have been thoughtfully maintained, offering over 3,500 square feet of refined above-ground living space, plus an additional 1,200 square feet in the finished lower level. The residence was designed to accommodate both
Property Id: 2780179 Spacious 2 bed 1 bath available now for $2300 a month. Features: 2 bed 1 bath Available for immediate move in Radiant heat included Shared washer and dryer in basement Lease terms: First months rent and security deposit due at signing Parking available for additional montly fee Water, garbage, and radiant heat included
Enjoy the North Shore lifestyle in this spacious and inviting duplex ideally located in sought-after Lake Forest. This well-appointed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features hardwood flooring throughout, a generous primary suite with a spacious en-suite bath and separate shower, and a partially finished basement offering versatile additional space for recreation, office, fitness, or storage. Laundry in
In-town 2 bedroom coach house apartment. Drive to the back of the property and there you see a brick walk way leading to the apartment. A flight of stairs leads you up to the charming rental. Hardwood floors, a large living room dining room combo with a decorative fireplace. The generous size kitchen has room for a table and a walk in pantry. There is a whole house fan and window air conditioning
Megan Sparrow Jordan@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Freshly painted and move-in ready, this bright end-unit townhome in The Villas of Lake Forest offers three levels of comfortable living, abundant natural light, and a flexible floor plan. Recent updates include new luxury vinyl wood flooring throughout the second level, new carpet on the stairways, and a new dishwasher. The spacious living and dining area features a custom stone gas-start
Welcome to this "JEWEL BOX" ranch home updated inside and out. Meticulous throughout, this home offers a large open living and dining room with vaulted ceiling. Main living space and bedrooms have white oak floors with a subtle color stain. Large, newer gourmet kitchen with top-of-the line appliances and loads of counter space for the chef and entertaining. Kitchen has French doors that open to
Megan Sparrow Jordan@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Experience the ease of single-level living in this truly exceptional, fully updated ranch home in coveted east Lake Forest. Set behind a gated entry and fully enclosed with a brand-new privacy fence, this beautifully transformed home offers incredible curb appeal with a new wide circular asphalt driveway, bluestone paver walkway, welcoming front porch, new roof, new Hardie Board siding, new
THIS IS IT! YOUR RENTAL SEARCH IS OVER! EAST LAKE FOREST CONDO PERFECTION! WHITE! BRIGHT! CONDO! Completely rehabbed in 2023. Glossy white tile floors and walls! New stainless steel kitchen appliances! Walk to Train, Beach, restaurants, and shopping! Two Bedrooms, two full baths! Floor-to-ceiling windows and balcony to Grill on! Secure building, second floor. One assigned parking space. All White
EXECUTIVE LUXURY FURNISHED RENTAL IN LAKE FOREST - Set on more than two private acres bordering the Derwen Mawr Nature Preserve, this exceptional estate offers a rare opportunity to enjoy one of Lake Forest's most extraordinary settings. Protected open lands, resort-style amenities, and walkability come together in a location that is increasingly difficult to find. Wake to peaceful preserve views
Juli HallasBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
This lovely 3 bedroom, 2.1 bath duplex features hardwood floors throughout and beautifully updated kitchen with access to a private outdoor patio. The first floor offers a spacious combined living room and dining area plus a versatile den or home office. Upstairs the en-suite primary bedroom features a newly updated bath and large closet along with two additional bedrooms that share a hall bath.
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