Located in the western suburbs of the largest railroad hub in the nation, West Chicago offers a relaxed lifestyle with urban accessibility. “Buyers often overlook West Chicago and are surprised to find such a diverse and family-friendly community,” says Cindy Banks, Broker and owner of Re/Max Cornerstone. Established as a city in 1906, West Chicago developed following the completion of the first railroad junction in Illinois. Today, the city has more than 25,000 residents and its rail heritage continues, with West Chicago being home to two active lines — the Union Pacific and the Canadian National — which many area employers utilize to distribute and transport goods throughout the country. “Residents are used to the activity, and the sound doesn’t impact daily life,” says Banks. Major area employers include the Jel Sert Company, a food and beverage manufacturer, and Ball Horticultural Company, which together contribute more than 1,500 jobs to the local workforce. Residents here enjoy amenities like Reed-Keppler Park and the city's seasonal Frosty and Blooming festivals,which contribute to the area's greater sense of community. “West Chicago’s location is ideal, at the center of four major markets: Geneva, Naperville, Elmhurst and Barrington,” says Banks. “And Chicago is accessible within an hour's drive.”
Smiles abound at the annual Fall Festival in West Chicago's Sonny Acres Farm.
The Metra train runs through West Chicago taking residents to Chicago quickly and conveniently.
1/2
Ranch-styles, Colonial Revivals and new builds
Homes in West Chicago are desirable for their entry-level pricing and wide range of styles. “There’s a lack of inventory, but properties remain generally more affordable,” says Banks, who has over 37 years of real estate experience in the area. With a median sales price of $390,000, homes cost around $20,000 less than the national median. Prices vary depending on age and size, and prospective buyers can expect to pay around $100,000 for a one-bedroom condo, $400,000 for a three-bedroom ranch-style home and upwards of $700,000 for a five-bedroom, two-story new traditional. Most homes are single-family builds featuring ranch-style or Colonial Revival designs; however, multi-family condos and townhouses are also available downtown. “Northern properties are more expensive, with more acreage, while downtown has a great mix of modern builds and historic Victorian styles,” says Banks. New construction options are also available in neighborhoods like Cornerstone Lakes on the city's outskirts, with prices starting around $650,000.
Homes in West Chicago are desirable for their entry-level pricing and wide range of styles.
Suburban beauty awaits you when call West Chicago your home.
1/2
City parks and gatherings at Reed-Keppler Park
West Chicago has 13 parks with 410 acres of outdoor spaces to explore. Reed-Keppler Park is a primary gathering space for residents, spanning 89 acres and featuring a playground, skate park, community center and the seasonal Turtle Splash Water Park. Pioneer Park, to the south, is another open space option, complete with a jungle gym, picnic pavilion, splash pad and both soccer and baseball facilities. For some time in nature, the West Chicago Prairie Preserve is one of eight nature preserves in DuPage County and is home to over 600 species of plants and animals. Visitors to the preserve can stroll its paved pathways while spotting wildlife. The Prairie Landing Golf Club is situated on the west side of the city, is open to the public and features an 18-hole course and a driving range for players of all skill levels. The city experiences all four seasons, from humid summers to freezing winters, with an annual average of 29 inches of snowfall.
West Chicago Park District is where you will find the ARC Center near Reed Park.
Work on your swing while in West Chiacago.
1/2
Seasonal events in Downtown West Chicago
On the first Saturday of December, residents can attend the annual Frosty Fest in Downtown West Chicago. It’s a family-friendly event that promotes the start of the holiday season. It kicks off with a tree-lighting ceremony, followed by hot chocolate, a holiday market, ice sculpture carving and a horse-drawn trolley ride down Main Street. The annual Blooming Fest is held every third Saturday of May and celebrates the start of spring. During the celebration, festivalgoers can enjoy live music, gardening displays and a market with local vendors.
Walk the historic main street during Blooming Fest in West Chicago.
The ice sculptor is very impressive at Frosty Fest in Chicago West.
1/2
A-rated education in Dupage County
Families in Dupage County are served by two school districts: West Chicago Elementary School District 33 and Community High School District 94. District 33 has five elementary schools and one middle school, while District 94 has one high school. Most students attend West Chicago Community High School, which earns an A-minus from Niche. It serves more than 2,000 students and is ranked 107 out of 672 in the category of 'best college preparatory high school' in the state. Private school options like Wheaton Academy, a co-ed private high school, are also available nearby. For those interested in pursuing a higher education, the College of DuPage is 9 miles away, and offers two-year associate degrees in more than 100 areas of study.
West Chicago Community High School earns an A-minus from Niche.
College of DuPage is 9 miles away from West Chicago and offers two-year associate degrees.
1/2
Local grocers and eateries in Downtown West Chicago
Most residents shop along Highways 59 and 64 for groceries and everyday essentials. Along these thoroughfares, folks can choose from grocery store options like Jewel-Osco, Aldi or Walmart Supercenter. Or head to big-box retailers like Target, Dollar Tree or the Walgreens Pharmacy. For a bite to eat, locals have their choice of fast-food chains or family-owned eateries in Downtown West Chicago. Notable restaurants include the Egg Yolk Cafe, which serves hearty portions of home-style breakfast and lunch options. Or Los Comales, for specialty tacos and authentic Mexican cuisine that has served the community for over 50 years.
Cornerstone Lakes residents can shop for fresh produce at the local Walmart.
Plenty of amazing breakfast and lunch options for the residents of Cornerstone Lakes.
1/2
Nearby healthcare and trips into Chicago on the Metra
Highways 64 and 38 run horizontally through the city, connecting residents to neighboring areas and U.S. Interstate 290 for trips into Chicago. The Pace Bus offers public rides throughout DuPage County. and the Metra provides train rides into Chicago from the West Chicago Park & Ride station off Main Street. When traveling farther from the city, the Chicago O'Hare International Airport is 30 miles away. For healthcare, the Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital is 3 miles from the community.
Crime
According to FBI data, the West Chicago Police Department’s violent and property crime rates remain well below national figures. Violent crime decreased by 0.8% in 2023, while property crime fell by 30%.
I have had the privilege to work with real estate buyers and sellers since 2006. Put my experience to work for you when buying or selling your home. I will help you market your property and also to find the new home you want and need anywhere in the Chicago area and suburbs, far and near. *** Yo hablo español. ***
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.
