$423,881Average Value$220Average Price per Sq Ft38Homes For Sale
Suburban convenience at Chicago’s door
In South Elgin, life flows as naturally as the Fox River running through it. About 40 miles northwest of Chicago, South Elgin combines suburban living with convenient access to nearby cities such as Elgin and Geneva. With a population of more than 24,000, the village has seen steady growth thanks to new home construction and an expanding economy, “but we’ve worked hard to maintain the close-knit, welcoming feel that makes this village special,” says Craig Pierce, a resident and the community engagement manager for South Elgin.
Guided by its initiative, “You Belong Here,” South Elgin emphasizes a sense of inclusion for all residents. “Our goal is to ensure everyone who calls South Elgin home feels connected,” Pierce says.
Thornwood is a scenic neighborhood in South Elgin.
Scenic ponds dot the landscape in Thornwood.
Residents can use the Metra located in Elgin to be in Chicago in an hour and a half.
Thornwood offers loads of local natural beauty to be enjoyed closeby for residents.
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Thornwood highlights South Elgin real estate
South Elgin’s real estate market offers home styles for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Homebuyers can find single-family homes, townhouses, and ranch-style residences. The median home price for South Elgin is $360,900. Thornwood, a planned community built in the early 2000s, features tree-lined streets and amenities such as a pool and clubhouse.
Whispering Trail, developed in the late 1990s and early 2000s, offers a tranquil environment with proximity to parks, with home values ranging widely from $585,600 to $992,000.
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, rates of reported violent crime and property crime are lower than national averages.
Downtown South Elgin features many recently constructed new traditional townhomes.
Expansive homes with classic styles are found in Whispering Trail.
Thornwood homes are almost entirely large, new traditional homes.
Large brick homes are the norm in Thornwood.
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Recreation along the Fox River Trail
The Fox River is a centerpiece for recreation in South Elgin. The Fox River Trail, a 40-mile paved path winding through the village, invites cyclists, joggers, and walkers throughout the year. Kayakers and anglers enjoy the water during spring and summer, while the trail offers scenic views of fall colors, drawing hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Panton Mill Park’s riverfront stage hosts live music and craft fairs, while Blackhawk Park offers facilities for youth sports leagues and local tournaments. The river itself is a haven for swimming and paddleboarding, while its banks are a favorite for birdwatchers hoping to spot herons — or even bald eagles. “The riverfront is where so much of South Elgin’s personality shines,” Pierce says. “It’s where we connect with nature and each other.”
South Elgin on the Fox River is where Seba Park resides and families from all over have fun at.
Enjoy the serene surroundings at Panton Mill Park.
Nature is never far away in Whispering Trail, as residents keep an active outdoorsy lifestyle.
Thornwood residents have quick access to the Fox River Trail.
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Downtown links South Elgin to dining and retail
South Elgin is a hub of activity with a riverfront setting. Local businesses and restaurants like the Village Squire support the local economy. From Mexican and Italian to Thai, the dining options reflect the cultures that make up South Elgin’s diverse community. Community events and gatherings in the downtown area further strengthen its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Adding a touch of history and nostalgia, the Fox River Trolley Museum offers visitors a chance to ride vintage trolleys along scenic routes, blending recreation with a nod to the past.
Get some fresh produce at the Downtown South Elgin Market during the summer months.
Residents rave about the burgers from Wee-Dee's in Downtown South Elgin.
Sweet Berry Cafe in Downtown South Elgin is a great place to meet up for a quick meal.
The Village Squire offers fun appetizer items like OPA flaming shrimp.
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Route 31 and I-90 connect South Elgin to Chicago
Near Route 31, Route 20, and Interstate 90, South Elgin provides easy access to Chicago and surrounding areas. For public transit, Metra train stations in Elgin and Geneva offer service to downtown Chicago and other suburban destinations.
The village prioritizes walkability with paths and trails like the Fox River Trail, connecting neighborhoods to parks and community spaces. South Elgin is 30 miles from Chicago O’Hare International Airport and 45 miles from Chicago Midway International Airport.
School District U-46 shapes education in South Elgin
School District U-46, Illinois’ second-largest, serves over 35,000 students from pre-kindergarten through high school and has an overall B rating from Niche.com. South Elgin High School earned an A-minus rating, highlighting its strong Advanced Placement programs. Nearby, St. Charles East High School, rated A-plus, is recognized for its extracurricular opportunities.
Centennial and Spring Trail Elementary Schools hold B-plus ratings, emphasizing STEM and early literacy. Additionally, the district offers dual-language programs, gifted education, and special education services to students with disabilities.
South Elgin High School challenges and encourages children to learn.
Students of Thornwood attend the top rated St Charles North High school.
Thornwood provides amazing education options for our youth such as Kenyon Woods Middle School.
Otter Creek Elementary School places your children first.
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Written By
Lauren Seifert
Photography Contributed By
Patrick Kelley
Video By
Colleen Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Pawel Czauderna,
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 South Elgin, IL sell after 23 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in South Elgin, IL over the last 12 months is $365,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
FANTASTIC TWO-STORY CONDO WITH A TWO-CAR GARAGE! This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers an inviting and functional layout. The main level features an open floor plan with a kitchen featuring new cabinetry and beautiful vinyl tile flooring that overlooks the dining area and flows seamlessly into the spacious living room, complete with a cozy gas fireplace, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. All
Rare setting. Exceptional lifestyle. Unmatched opportunity. Homes with views like this do not come along often. This is your opportunity to get into one of Thornwood's most coveted streets, backing to a protected nature preserve with breathtaking views that stretch for miles. Homes in this setting rarely become available-and this one delivers space, light, and lifestyle in equal measure.Offering
Welcome to 2212 Baxter Ct in Elgin, a beautifully located home on a corner lot in a quiet cul-de-sac with over 3,300 sq ft of living sq ft, and SOUTH ELGIN SCHOOLS. This home features 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, a SECOND FLOOR LAUNDRY ROOM, 9ft ceilings throughout the main floor, and a full finished DEEP POUR - high ceiling lookout basement, offering great additional living and entertaining
Stunning newer-construction 2-story townhome, built just 3 years ago, offering modern design, upscale finishes, and effortless living. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a private second-floor deck, and an attached 2-car garage, this home delivers both style and functionality in a like-new condition. Step into a welcoming foyer that leads to a versatile main-level bedroom and full
FANTASTIC TWO-STORY CONDO WITH A TWO-CAR GARAGE! This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers an inviting and functional layout. The main level features an open floor plan with a kitchen featuring new cabinetry and beautiful vinyl tile flooring that overlooks the dining area and flows seamlessly into the spacious living room, complete with a cozy gas fireplace, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. All
Rare setting. Exceptional lifestyle. Unmatched opportunity. Homes with views like this do not come along often. This is your opportunity to get into one of Thornwood's most coveted streets, backing to a protected nature preserve with breathtaking views that stretch for miles. Homes in this setting rarely become available-and this one delivers space, light, and lifestyle in equal measure.Offering
Welcome to 2212 Baxter Ct in Elgin, a beautifully located home on a corner lot in a quiet cul-de-sac with over 3,300 sq ft of living sq ft, and SOUTH ELGIN SCHOOLS. This home features 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, a SECOND FLOOR LAUNDRY ROOM, 9ft ceilings throughout the main floor, and a full finished DEEP POUR - high ceiling lookout basement, offering great additional living and entertaining
Move-in ready, investor friendly and beautifully remodeled this MAIN-FLOOR RANCH condo offers comfort, space and flexibility. Featuring 2 separate garages, 2 full bedrooms and 2 full baths on the main level plus a third bedroom/office in the full mostly unfinished basement. The extra large primary suite includes a private bath with shower and a large walk-in closet. The second bedroom has a
Jennifer StrublerBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Starck Real Estate
*Below Market Interest Rate Available for Qualified Buyers* A welcoming covered porch introduces you to the 2-story Stewart model, starting with an open foyer that immediately connects to a versatile flex room with 2 windows and a storage closet. This gorgeous space would be perfect for your dream home office! Keep following the foyer to find a closet, the door to the 2-car garage, and the
Located in the desirable Kenyon Farms community of South Elgin, this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 3 bath brick and vinyl ranch offers comfortable single-level living with a functional, open layout and thoughtful upgrades throughout. The landscaped lot features a welcoming front porch, 3 car garage, and a fenced backyard with a covered patio, perfect for relaxing or entertaining, all within
Welcome to your private retreat-where luxury, space, and nature come together in harmony. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac and set on a picturesque .38 acre tree-lined lot, this stunning home has over 3,500 sq ft, plus a full finished basement for nearly 5,000 total sq ft of beautifully designed living space. Backing to serene wetlands, the setting provides unmatched privacy and breathtaking views,
MULTIPLE OFFERS RECEIVED-Best and highest by Saturday at Noon. Escalation clause will NOT BE CONSIDERED. Gorgeous end unit townhome in Heartland Meadows. Two bedroom and 1 1/2 bath with 2 car garage. Kitchen has pantry, large eating area and tons of natural light. Convenient, 2nd level laundry. Just minutes from shopping and dining on Randall Road Corridor! INVESTORS WELCOME- THIS HOME CAN BE
Dawn Recchia@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Better than new and completely move-in ready in Becketts Landing! This stunning Reilly model offers the perfect blend of modern design, functional space, and a backyard made for entertaining. Featuring 3+loft bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a full basement with rough-in, this home truly checks every box. Step inside and fall in love with the bright, open-concept layout-perfect for today's lifestyle. The
Custom-built Bellefleur home set on a beautifully wooded lot in Thornwood Reserve, offering a thoughtfully designed layout, quality finishes, and a highly desirable setting. A welcoming front porch leads into a dramatic two-story foyer with Brazilian cherry flooring, detailed crown molding, and architectural accents throughout, including tray ceilings and arched openings into the formal dining
Sarah LeonardLegacy Properties, A Sarah Leonard Company, LLC
BETTER THAN NEW! This is the move-in ready, fully updated townhome you've been waiting for. This Harrison model in The Townes at Becketts Landing combines modern updates, functional space, and low maintenance living in one of South Elgin's most desirable communities. Enjoy an attached two-car garage and covered entry leading into a welcoming foyer complete with a powder room and coat closet. The
Mallory Engstrom@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Authentix South Elgin features studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments with stylish interiors. Amenities include a sparkling pool, fitness center, pet park, and more! All conveniently located near shopping and dining in South Elgin.
Comfort, convenience, and easy living come together in this inviting main-level condo, perfectly designed for a lifestyle you'll love coming home to. With both front and back private entrances, this two-bedroom, two-bath residence offers the feel of a single-family home with the simplicity of maintenance-free living. Step inside to a spacious living room featuring a cozy gas log fireplace and
Located in the heart of South Elgin, our apartment community offers studio, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom floor plans designed to fit your lifestyle. With resort-style amenities, stylish finishes, and a neighborhood feel, Springs at South Elgin is a place you’ll love to call home. Whether you're relaxing by the pool, enjoying our pet-friendly spaces, or exploring nearby shopping and dining, you’ll find
(Available from Aug 1st] Welcome to very new Park Pointe Community of South Elgin. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom Townhome in fairly new built subdivision of South Elgin is very low maintainence and complete with modern living ammenities. Situated in the U46 school zone with exceptional schools. As you step inside, you'll be welcomed by the fresh, modern interior. The kitchen has Quartz counters
Luxury Apartmentswith Modern Amenities in the heart of South Elgin, ILWelcome to Panton Mill Station. Our community of 100 apartment homes is available now. Located across from Panton Mill Park in the heart of South Elgin, residents will enjoy a fully-equipped fitness center, outdoor kitchen and professional business center. The one and two bedroom apartments feature large layouts,
Fully Furnished Rental in South Pointe - Move-In Ready! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2,934 sq ft, 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath fully furnished home located in the highly desirable South Pointe community. This spacious home offers a modern open-concept layout with a stunning kitchen featuring 42" white cabinets, elegant white quartz countertops, a large island, walk-in pantry, and GE stainless
Property Id: 957219Beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo offering approximately 1,100 sq ft of spacious, move-in ready living. This second-floor unit features a modern kitchen with white cabinetry, stylish backsplash, and updated flooring throughout. The open-concept layout flows into a large, sun-filled living area with plenty of space to relax or entertain.Step outside
Quick Occupancy: Spacious updated 3 Bedroom/3 Bath home on a nice lot in St. Charles District #303 Schools. Excellent condition with current updates & neutral decor. Spacious entry/foyer - Open layout with the combo Living Room/Dining Room configuration with beamed ceiling detail. The eat-in Kitchen features raised panel cabinetry with generous countertops - full appliance package (Refrigerator,
This spacious and affordable apartment home has a new flooring in the living room and kitchen. There is fresh paint and a balcony to enjoy. It is in a quiet building with friendly people and families. If this is something that appeals to you, we would love to have you. Please apply.
$3,000 per month
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,468 Sq Ft
IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY! Welcome to this new construction, fully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhome located near Randall Rd. in South Elgin. All new furniture includes sofas, dining table & chairs, 2 beds, 3 wall-mounted TV's, cooking supplies, coffee maker, etc. - everything but linens. At about 1500 square feet, this home has the same square footage as many of the 3 bedroom units,
Hugging the banks of the Fox River about an hour east of Chicago, Whispering Trail offers large homes and a residential lifestyle. Located in South Elgin, less than half an hour from the historic area, the neighborhood is close to parks while also sitting just across Randall Road from two major shopping centers. Residents are never far from taking care of general shopping needs, grabbing a bite to eat or embracing the history of the Elgin community. “There’s an abundance of growth in South Elgin, including a lot of newer homes,” says Courtney Caraway, a real estate expert with Gallery Realty, Inc. “The community also has theaters and museums nearby. Residents don’t have to travel far to experience all that is offered there.”
The southern half of Whispering Trail is almost entirely residential and consists of Silver Glen Estates, where most of the homes here are located. Whispering Trail and Bristol Road make up the encircling thoroughfare, with cozy residential streets winding in and around each other and numerous cul-de-sacs branching outward. Stately, modern custom homes can be found here, with large, traditional styles the most common architecture. These large homes can also feature elements of Queen Anne or Cape Cod designs, as well as brick or stone detailing and wraparound porches. Well-manicured lawns are complemented by long driveways and multi-car garages, and prices typically begin in the $600,000s range and can span as high as over $1 million. The Becketts Landing community, in the northeastern corner of Whispering Trail, is currently in progress and there are also homes available there, some that have yet to be constructed.
Education for Whispering Trail neighborhood residents can begin at Corron Elementary School, which scores an A with Niche, and continues at Thompson Middle School. Thompson Middle also receives an A grade from Niche and is rated in the top 50 middle schools statewide. St. Charles North High School completes the schooling arc for students here, garnering a grade of A-plus from Niche and rated highly for its athletic and STEM programs. Its sports programs include football, lacrosse, cheer and dance, and all three schools are located outside of the neighborhood boundaries.
The Blackhawk County Forest Preserve makes up the southeastern corner of the neighborhood, encircling the bend of the Fox River that loops upward against Whispering Trail. Along its trails, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of flowing streams and rushing waterfalls, and the River Bend Bike Trail also meanders its way through the park. In the northeastern section of the neighborhood, the McLean Fen Forest Preserve is dotted with prairie flowers and other foliage, though public access is prohibited. Several other parks, including Jim Hansen Park, Mulberry Grove Park and Ralph E. Tredup Park West, are all located in the surrounding area.
Directly across the western boundary of Whispering Trail, comprised of Randall Road, sit South Elgin Crossing and South Elgin Commons. “South Randall Road has everything: grocery stores, restaurants and shops,” Caraway says. At the Crossing, stop in to Best Buy, PetSmart or the Home Depot for big-box needs, while restaurant chains include Red Robin, Starbucks and Buffalo Wild Wings. Supplies are available at the Home Depot. The Village Tavern & Grill and Coffee Haus provide local flavor. At the Commons, various shopping needs can be fulfilled at the Ross Dress for Less or Target, residents can break a sweat at LA Fitness and a medieval dining atmosphere can be found at the Village Squire. Just south of the shopping centers sit Encourage, which offers shakes, tea and more, and F45 of South Elgin, where residents can sign up for planned workouts and programs. Fresh groceries can be picked up at Aldi, to the north, or Angelo Caputo’s Fresh Markets, situated close to the shopping centers.
Just under half an hour northeast is the historic Elgin area, where older buildings, churches and homes can be found. Both St. Mary’s Church and the First Universalist Church were built in the late 19th century and, respectively, in the gothic and Romanesque styles; the latter is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Several museums are located in Elgin as well, including the Fox River Trolley Museum, Elgin Fire Barn No. 5 Museum and the Elgin History Museum. The trolley museum showcases railway relics of the past, while the fire barn was one of the first of its kind in the area. At the Elgin History Museum, find overviews of the city’s past, interactive exhibits for a truly hands-on experience or a scavenger hunt for all ages.
Illinois Route 31 and Stearns Road are the primary thoroughfares in and around the Whispering Trail area. Route 31, which takes motorists from Elgin to such areas in Illinois as Montgomery and Crystal Lake, aligns with the curvature of the Fox River and borders the Blackhawk County Forest Preserve. Stearns Road cuts through the northern half of the neighborhood and connects with areas such as Wayne and Bartlett, crossing the river just east of Whispering Trail. Downtown Chicago is about an hour east of the neighborhood, and the Pace Suburban Bus system has one line that makes its way to Whispering Trail along Randall Road.
Property Mix - Square Feet
South Elgin Has More Owners
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
7
Median Rent
$2,900
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,250
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$3,100
Median Townhouse Rent
$2,800
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$2,775
Median Condo Rent
$1,650
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$1,650
Demographics
Total Population
25,304
Median Age
39
Population under 18
25.4%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
14.1%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$114,292
Significantly above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$134,604
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
90.3%
College Graduates
36.7%
On par with the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
13.2%
% Population in Labor Force
72.1%
Above the national average
64.9%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
37''
Average Winter Low Temperature
17°F
Average Summer High Temperature
84°F
Annual Snowfall
26''
Area Factors
Fairly friendly
Bike Score®®
50/ 100
Fairly friendly
Walk Score®®
40/ 100
Not friendly
Transit Score®®
0/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
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.
