$1,348,115Average Value$399Average Price per Sq Ft38Homes 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
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On average, homes in Lake Forest, IL sell after 35 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Forest, IL over the last 12 months is $1,219,000, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this rare find in a wonderful community. Nestled in Woodland Creek and backing to open lands, this home offers three levels of spacious living. With over 3,700 square feet on the main and second floors, plus partial finished basement with FP, there is room for everyone. Lovely hardwood floors on most of main level. The bright white kitchen features a large island and an eat-in area,
Megan Sparrow Jordan@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Rarely available and perfectly situated along the 16th green of the exclusive Conway Farms Golf Club, this townhome impresses with SPECTACULAR, PANORAMIC FAIRWAY VISTAS, mature trees and open space in a peaceful and private setting Arguably one of the most solid and best built homes you will find on the North Shore, this 4+ bedroom, 4.1 bath townhome impresses at every turn offering the best of
Elizabeth Smith@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Located on one of Lincolnshire's most sought-after private, tree-lined streets in award-winning Stevenson & Lincolnshire school districts, this beautifully maintained 5-bedroom brick and cedar home offers timeless curb appeal situated on a half-acre wooded lot. A brick paver-lined driveway and walkway lead to a welcoming front porch, setting the stage for the sophisticated interior. Step inside
Carla VisokyBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
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
Experience effortless, elevated living in this beautifully renovated (2026) condo, set within an intimate boutique building in the heart of Lake Forest. A gracious foyer welcomes you into a home defined by refined finishes and timeless style. The living room makes a striking first impression, featuring a newly designed fireplace with luxurious Philip Jeffries silk wall coverings and striking
This exceptional coastal-inspired estate, built in 2008 to the highest standards, offers a rare blend of luxury, comfort, and privacy on two beautifully landscaped acres with a serene natural pond. Designed for both everyday living and gracious entertaining, the home showcases expansive indoor and outdoor spaces, including a wraparound porch, screened porch, and 40'x16' saltwater swimming
Mona Hellinga@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Newly priced at $3,900,000, this rare offering in one of Lake Forest's most desired locations features over two private acres with exceptional resort-style amenities. Designed for an active lifestyle, this property offers a seamless balance of recreation, relaxation, and refined living. Bordering Lake Forest Open Lands' Derwen Mawr preserve, it provides direct access to miles of scenic trails,
Juli HallasBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
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
Welcome to 23388 N Birchwood Lane, an exceptional new construction residence showcasing impeccable craftsmanship, sophisticated style, and thoughtfully curated design throughout. Located in the highly desirable Del Mar Woods subdivision of unincorporated Deerfield and served by the award-winning Bannockburn School District, this home offers the perfect blend of luxury and functionality. This
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
Beautifully updated and move-in ready, this Lake Forest home blends timeless charm with today's modern finishes. Thoughtfully renovated throughout, the home features an inviting layout with stylish design details at every turn. Sun-filled living spaces create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while quality improvements provide comfort and peace of mind. A rare indoor pool offers year-round
Kim ShortsleJameson Sotheby's International Realty
Extraordinary opportunity to build your dream estate on the breathtaking property known as Whitehall Meadows! Adjacent to Lake Forest Open Lands nature preserve, Whitehall Meadows offers a rare blend of privacy and a peaceful natural setting surrounded by meadows and verdant grassland with access to beautiful wide-open land for miles. Presented for sale for the first time, Lot 8 in Whitehall
Welcome to this rare find in a wonderful community. Nestled in Woodland Creek and backing to open lands, this home offers three levels of spacious living. With over 3,700 square feet on the main and second floors, plus partial finished basement with FP, there is room for everyone. Lovely hardwood floors on most of main level. The bright white kitchen features a large island and an eat-in area,
Megan Sparrow Jordan@properties Christie's International Real Estate
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
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
1 Bedroom -1 Bath (Back Upper Level) Beautifully renovated apartment unit located in the heart of downtown Lake Forest available as soon as May 1st. The unit features new cabinetry, quartz countertops, and stainless-steel appliances including a refrigerator, dishwasher, and stove/oven. New hardwood and LVP floors run throughout the apartment. Conveniently located directly across from the Lake
Absolutely stunning East Lake Forest home located in stellar location offering 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, with over 5000 square feet of living space. Stunning kitchen with white, solid wood custom cabinetry, blended with granite countertops, island with breakfast car, custom backsplash and stainless steel appliances (with double oven). Huge living room with wood coffered ceilings, fireplace and
Almost 1000 sqft of BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED TOP FLOOR APARTMENT in a VINTAGE HISTORIC BUILDING IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN LAKE FOREST! | BRAND NEW SHAKER CABINETRY KITCHEN with STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES & QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS | BRAND NEW BATHROOM! | It's an Intimate Two Bedroom Apartment or a Roomy One Bedroom Apartment with a 20ft X 13ft Living Room | Enjoy the Roomy 18ft X 7ft Private Deck | Located
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
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
Welcome to this stunning 2-story, 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home nestled in the desirable Whispering Oaks community. Ideally located near parks, top-rated schools, shopping, and the train station, this home offers both convenience and charm. As you enter, the inviting foyer showcases a beautiful wrapped staircase, leading to formal living and dining rooms, perfect for entertaining. The open-concept
Well maintained ranch duplex in fabulous EAST LAKE FOREST! Spacious eat-in kitchen, large living room, 2 decorative fireplaces & private patio. Full finished basement with laundry included. Also 1 detached garage space & 1 outdoor space. Close to town, beach and train. Tenant pays all utilities. Snow removal and lawn maintenance included. $120 Credit/criminal check & income verification required.
Lisa Trace@properties Christie's International Real Estate
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