$931,051Average Value$314Average Price per Sq Ft19Homes For Sale
High concentration of Prairie School architecture just outside Chicago
A stunning Chicago suburb best known for its Prairie School architecture, River Forest is coveted for its concentration of historic homes and closeness to the city. “If you want a unique home with close proximity to this city, this is where you should look,” explains Brian Behan, a lifelong resident and real estate agent who, after growing up in the village, decided to raise his own family there. “It’s chock-full of Frank Lloyd Wright houses. There are more here than anywhere else.” He goes on to explain that there’s a 20-minute, nonstop Metra ride to the city that makes it easy not only to commute but to grab dinner in Chicago or hang out there on weekends, something he did with such frequency in his youth that he wanted to raise his kids there. On top of that, the community has excellent parks, recreation programs and sought-after schools: to him, the choice to stay in River Forest was easy.
River Forest homes draw a lot of visual interest in their architectural design.
River Forest homes can reach upwards to several million dollars.
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More Frank Lloyd Wright homes than anywhere else
River Forest contains a diversity of early 20th-century American residential architecture and is best known for housing several works of the acclaimed architect Frank Lloyd Wright and his Prairie School contemporaries — William Drummond, Spencer and Powers and E.E. Roberts, to name a few. Aside from Prairie School, common styles in the village include Gothic Revival, Victorian and Tudor Revival. “Even if you didn’t know the address of a house, you’d be able to find it because it wouldn’t look like any other house on the block,” Behan says. He explains that the adjacent community of Oak Park is also known for its concentration of renowned architecture, but that River Forest has larger lots than Oak Park. According to Behan, the average price for a single-family home in River Forest is about $1 million, with an entry-level of about $700,000, and the most expensive house in the village exceeds $3 million. There are also condos, and those start at about $100,000.
Hiking in Thatcher Woods and recreation in the River Forest Park District
River Forest is bordered to the west by Thatcher Woods, a nearly 250-acre nature preserve with a natural history museum and wooded trails. The village has smaller community parks woven into its streets and “great park district programs,” Behan says. Among these are adult sports leagues, like softball, volleyball and pickleball, and Behan’s personal favorite, platform tennis: “They have a travel program that allows adults to travel to other suburbs to compete with other teams,” he says.
Take a walk through forested paths in Thatcher Woods, located in River Forest.
River Forest locals enjoy fishing at the Thatcher Glen Pond.
Play some one on one at the Keystone Park basketball courts in River Forest.
River Forest locals play some pickleball on the elevated courts at Keystone Park.
There are many tennis courts near River Forest.
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Charming local restaurants and nearby retail shopping
A variety of local eateries surround River Forest, like Johnnie’s Beef, an old-timey hot dog stand; Russell’s Barbecue, a counter-service barbecue joint; and FatDuck Tavern & Grill, a bar and grill known for its duck fat fries and craft beer. There’s a Jewel-Osco, Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s all in the village, making grocery shopping easy, and residents can head just west to Winston Plaza for extensive retail shopping, chain restaurants and a movie theater.
River Forest students can study at a variety of coffee shops like Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea.
River Forest residents are only a few minutes away from the boutique shops in Oak Park.
Chat with friends over drinks and burgers at FatDuck Tavern & Grill in River Forest.
A number of big box retailers like Target are located just north of River Forest.
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Public programs include historic preservation, senior services and the River Forest Public Library
River Forest has a variety of public programs that serve the community with ongoing events like bingo and art classes at the Senior Services of Oak Park and River Forest Townships, story times at the River Forest Public Library and a Historic Preservation Commission, which meets monthly to review applications for Landmark properties and educates the community regarding historic and architectural preservation.
Families can check out reading material at the River Forest Public Library.
Enjoy a quiet study or work session at the River Forest Public Library.
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River Forest’s award-winning public schools
River Forest students attend River Forest Public Schools: Lincoln or Willard Elementary School, followed by Roosevelt Middle, all of which received A ratings on the educational review site, Niche. In 2015, Lincoln Elementary School received a Blue Ribbon, as did Roosevelt Middle School in 2012. After Roosevelt, students attend Oak Park and River Forest High School, which received an A-plus and offers more than 200 courses, programs for students with special needs, 90 clubs and activities and 29 competitive sports. Parents also have the option to send their kids to Grace Lutheran School or St. Luke School, both of which enroll students in preschool through eighth grade. Dominican University is also located in the village.
Welcome to Oak Park and River Forest High School.
Roosevelt Middle School has a stately sign, reflecting the ideals of this River Forest school.
Willard Elementary School in River Forest is embolded with their wizard mascot.
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A nonstop Metra ride to the city
“River Forest is the second suburb outside Chicago’s city limits, so people move here for proximity to the city,” Behan says. “It’s a 20-minute Metra ride with no stops. The next stop is downtown Chicago.” It’s about a 30-minute drive to O’Hare International Airport, and the closest hospital, Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, is less than two miles away.
Written By
Hannah Rainey
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Steve Nasralla,
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 River Forest, IL sell after 32 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in River Forest, IL over the last 12 months is $665,000, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stylish 2-bed, 2-bath exposed timber loft featuring an open-concept kitchen, living, and dining area with high-ceilings, exposed brick and a cozy fireplace. Both full bathrooms offer convenient tub/shower combos. Enjoy a bright and airy living space with a private balcony, in-unit laundry, elevator access, and two assigned parking spaces (not tandem). Ideally located on vibrant Madison Street and
Impeccably maintained and beautifully updated, this spacious ranch offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a warm, inviting living room with a gas fireplace and gleaming hardwood floors, this home is designed for both relaxation and entertaining. The kitchen, updated in 2024, is a chef's dream with quartz countertops, a center island, a beverage bar,
Fabulous split floor plan in this 2 bedroom/2 bath condo. This lovely, south facing unit gets exceptional light. 2 bedrooms and 2 baths (one en suite) with a central living area and a bedroom to the east and west. This unit has a south balcony off the main living room, a full side-by-side laundry closet, a storage space on the same floor, and 1 heated garage space (with another extra-deep storage
Stylish 2-bed, 2-bath exposed timber loft featuring an open-concept kitchen, living, and dining area with high-ceilings, exposed brick and a cozy fireplace. Both full bathrooms offer convenient tub/shower combos. Enjoy a bright and airy living space with a private balcony, in-unit laundry, elevator access, and two assigned parking spaces (not tandem). Ideally located on vibrant Madison Street and
Exceptional Modern Farmhouse in the heart of River Forest offering 6 bedrooms, 5.1 baths, and approximately 6,500 square feet of finished living space on an oversized quarter-acre-plus lot. Built just nine years ago, this home features an outstanding floor plan, refined finishes, and hardwood floors throughout. The main level showcases 10-foot ceilings, a private office with custom built-ins,
Unique opportunity to create your custom 3 Bedroom / 2 Bath, top floor condo in the heart of River Forest. This unit is mid-renovation and ready to be finished to a capable buyer's specifications. Discounted pricing reflects the current condition. An open floor plan and generous square footage leave lots of opportunity for your finishing touches. The primary bedroom has an en-suite bath and a
Spacious first floor unit in the center of River Forest freshly painted ready for you to move in. Don't miss this beautiful unit with oversized rooms, hardwood floors, walk in utility closet and a large eat-in kitchen. Primary bedroom has ample closet space and attached full bath. 2nd bedroom is perfect for an office or guest bedroom, also with full bath. Watch the world go by on your balcony
Bright, spacious, and beautifully maintained top-floor condo featuring 3 bedrooms and incredible storage space! This inviting home offers wood laminate flooring throughout, wide hallways, and an abundance of natural light from oversized windows and recessed lighting. The large living room flows seamlessly into the dining area, both enhanced by a wall of windows that fills the space with light,
Step into elevated living with this stunning luxury condominium in the heart of Downtown Oak Park. Perfectly positioned on a higher floor and set back from Lake Street, this beautifully designed home offers peace, privacy, and breathtaking western views overlooking the forest preserve, making every sunset something special. Conveniently located is the metra station within walking distance and
Welcome to a truly exceptional residence in the heart of River Forest, where timeless elegance meets modern luxury. This fully renovated home has been thoughtfully curated with impeccable craftsmanship, elevated finishes, and a warm, sophisticated aesthetic throughout. From the moment you enter, you are greeted by an abundance of natural light that enhances the home's gracious open-concept design
Prime River Forest Location! This charming, sun-filled second-floor unit is nestled in a well-maintained courtyard elevator building and features beautiful original hardwood floors that add timeless character. Enjoy the best of River Forest living with its tree-lined streets, strong sense of community, and access to top-rated school districts, including District 90 and nearby Oak Park & River
You will be amazed at this spacious top-floor corner condo, 2 bedroom/2.5 bath with custom office in the desired Valencia Condominiums. This home offers an open concept living room and dining area, large windows with abundant natural light. A generous kitchen with lots of cabinets, stainless steel appliances, eat-in area and breakfast bar. The oversized primary suite features a full wall custom
Welcome to this charming condo! The spacious open floor plan allows for versatile living arrangements, perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. Enjoy a lifestyle of unparalleled ease and accessibility located in the heart of shopping, restaurants and public transportation. Downtown Oak Park the Green line, Blue Line and Metra are minutes away. One exterior parking space included. Half of the
Maria DelBoccio@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Welcome to 1430 Keystone, an elegant brick residence showcasing early- to mid-20th-century craftsmanship, perfectly situated on one of River Forest's most prestigious and picturesque streets. Keystone Avenue is renowned for its architectural grandeur, featuring late 19th- and 20th-century homes-many with Prairie School influences and distinguished historic styles-creating a truly refined and
Katerina Vielehr@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Set on an exceptionally deep 50x220 lot in sought-after River Forest, this inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch offers the space, ease, and setting that is difficult to find in a rental. Inside, a bright, single-level layout delivers comfortable everyday living with generously sized rooms and great natural light throughout. The the living room boasts a gas log fireplace and flows easily into the
TOP FLOOR 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo, meticulously renovated in 2023, in a friendly 35-unit elevator building, centrally located in downtown Oak Park/River Forest, with a sweeping, private balcony view of downtown Oak Park and beyond. 3 blocks from Metra and Green Line stations, and easy walking distance to all that downtown Oak Park and River Forest have to offer. All new kitchen in 2023
Super spacious townhome in desirable River Forest. This is the sunny end unit with beautiful north, south and east views. The main level has living and dining space to fit your needs. Enormous open kitchen with granite counters, stainless appliances and tons of cabinets for storage. Balcony off kitchen through sliders. Second floor features 3 bedrooms, bathroom and laundry. Primary bedroom with
This beautiful townhouse features a kitchen with maple cabinets and granite countertops, a finished basement with washer, dryer, and ample storage, and two bedrooms with plenty of closet space. Both bathrooms are updated, and the home includes a private patio and front yard. Conveniently located near parks, schools, Concordia and Dominican Universities, with shopping, dining, entertainment, and
Perfect FULLY-FURNISHED MOVE-IN READY condo in River Forest! Stunning newly rehabbed condo-quality apartment homes on one of the best streets in River Forest, Bonnie Brae Place. This is a TWO BEDROOM 2 BATHROOM unit within a short walk to Concordia & Dominican Universities and within walking distance of public transportation, shopping, dining and local parks. For an easy ride into the city, it's
Thoughtful, comfortable living awaits in the heart of River Forest. This 1-bedroom, 1-bath residence features a bright living space, an efficient kitchen with timeless Carrara marble countertops, a spacious bedroom, and abundant natural light throughout.The functional floor plan is complemented by three generously sized closets, along with the added convenience of a dedicated parking
Perfect FULLY-FURNISHED MOVE-IN READY condo in River Forest! Stunning newly rehabbed condo-quality apartment homes on one of the best streets in River Forest, Bonnie Brae Place. This is a THREE BEDROOM 2.5 BATHROOM apartment within a short walk to Concordia & Dominican Universities and within walking distance of public transportation, shopping, dining and local parks. For an easy ride into the
The Emerson blends cozy comfort with stunning features in studio, one, and two-bedroom apartment homes located in the heart of Oak Park. Live where contemporary amenities--like a heated swimming pool, premium fitness center with flex studio, and sprawling views of the Chicago skyline--intersect perfectly with the familiar comforts of a friendly neighborhood. Experience the charm of Oak Park while
Beautifully updated 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo located on the 14th floor of a secure high-rise in the heart of Elmwood Park. This move-in-ready unit features newer flooring, fresh paint throughout, and a spacious layout. Kitchen offers real wood cabinetry, granite countertops, and newer appliances. Large bedroom with a full wall of windows provides abundant natural light and stunning western
Welcome to Oak Park Place, a residential community featuring studio, one, two or three bedroom apartments in Oak Park, IL. Spacious layouts and amenities welcome you home, along with exceptional service and an ideal location within walking distance to shopping, dining and entertainment options. Are you looking for an apartment for rent in Oak Park, IL? Contact our friendly, professional office
Madison West - Forest Park's newest apartment community! Premier CORNER unit w amazing downtown views from every room!! Madison Street living with features and amenities designed for today's living. This boutique elevator building includes a range of 2 bed/2 bath floorplans to choose from. Apartments feature modern open design, each with large walk out terraces, 10 foot ceilings and wood floors
The advertised rate of $10,258/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of November 1, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
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