$940,494Average Value$307Average Price per Sq Ft18Homes 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
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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.
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On average, homes in River Forest, IL sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in River Forest, IL over the last 12 months is $630,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fabulous split floor plan in this sunny 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 balcony off the 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 area). Bedroom
Completely remodeled from top to bottom. Kitchen, Baths, Basement, 24 X 24 garage new in 2007. Windows (2001 & 2005), hwh (2015) AC (2008), Furnace (2019) Chimney re-built (2010) tuckpointing (2007) siding (2005) Roof (2020).
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,
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
Beautiful and charming brick bungalow in highly sought-after River Forest features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, plus a versatile den and private study which is perfect for work-from-home or flex living. The partially finished full basement offers exceptional space for recreation, laundry, and storage. Step outside to a stunning brick patio surrounded by mature plantings and lush verdant greens. The
Rebecca Martinez@properties Christie's International Real Estate
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
Completely updated and turn-key 5 bed, 2.5 bath home (approx.3500 sq ft of living space) on a 10,000 sq ft lot in a prime, highly walkable River Forest location. Steps to RF Metra station, Washington Commons Park, Keystone Paddle Courts, and Lincoln Elementary. Built with excellent original details preserved and tastefully updated. Charming screened-in front porch overlooking professionally
Welcome to this bright and spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath corner unit located in a well-maintained building in the heart of River Forest. Building amenities include shared coin laundry, a secure lobby with elevator access, and two assigned parking spaces-a rare find in this area. Professionally managed HOA includes water, exterior maintenance, lawn care, snow removal, and common area. Conveniently
Perfect walk-to-town location for this beautifully rehabbed River Forest home! Fully gut rehabbed in 2019, this flexible 5-bedroom, 3.1-bath residence seamlessly blends timeless charm with modern amenities. Upon entering, you're welcomed by a gracious double-door entry with a convenient coat closet and inviting foyer. The thoughtfully designed floor plan offers exceptional flexibility for
Elizabeth August@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Move in ready and recently updated this charming home offers comfort and timeless appeal. Recent improvements include a new roof 2025, new HVAC system 2025, new water heater 2026. This property features spacious rooms, sun room and peaceful sitting room, updated bathrooms and functional layouts designed for everyday living. The finished attic level offering character, privacy, and flexible living
Don't miss this charming, 2015 new construction, home on a quiet, tree-lined street in Forest Park - only a short walk to the Blue Line, Green Line, Metra, the vibrant Madison Street District, and close to I290 for a swift commute to Chicago! Features premium finishes and hardwood floors throughout, 1st floor bedroom option (being used as an office), 2025 HVAC, fire sprinkler system throughout,
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
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
Fully Furnished 2 Bedroom Condo – Broker Owned – Flexible 3+ Month LeaseWelcome to this bright and stylish fully furnished 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo with parking included, located in the heart of River Forest. One of the bedrooms is currently set up as a comfortable home office, making it ideal for remote work, study or a quiet creative space.The unit offers hardwood floors,
Nice 15th floor unit with north facing views. Stove, fridge, and microwave . Lots of closets with spare 7x7 room. Washer and dryer down the hall. Heat and air conditioning included in rent.
Showing Now, Available for Lease May 16Beautiful town home right near Harlem and Lake. Located on border of Forest Park / Oak Park and right in the middle of downtown district with plenty of restaurants and night life. Just steps to Madison street bar district.Only two blocks / walking distance from CTA GREEN LINE Harlem stop and METRA commuter train, perfect for city commuter.
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
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