$1,885,166Average Value$534Average Price per Sq Ft20Homes For Sale
'Beautiful land' in a suburb on Lake Michigan
The name Winnetka roughly translates to "beautiful land" in the Potawatomi tribe's language. This North Shore village bordering Lake Michigan has the benefit of beaches, parks and the surrounding Forest Preserves of Cook County. It's only about 15 miles to downtown Chicago, with access via multiple Metra train stations. "The area has always been the draw for those that work in the Loop," says Daniel O'Donoghue, a real estate broker with Compass.
O'Donoghue grew up here in Winnetka, and his grandparents lived in the neighboring village of Northfield, which shares some similarities and services with Winnetka. He's served the communities throughout his 20-year career in real estate. The population is about 12,700, yet Winnetka, once farmland, maintains its small-town character, with community and school-based activities and a focus on local businesses. According to the CAP Index, Winnetka receives a crime score of 1 out of 10, less than the U.S. average score of 4.
Winnetka is named after the Native American phrase meaning “beautiful land.”
Centennial Park in Winnetka has a perfect view of Lake Michigan.
1/2
Multimillion-dollar luxury, Cape Cods and condos
Since development sprang up from the lake, there are a greater number of older homes here than inland. Included are early 1900s to 1920s farmhouses, bungalows and Colonial Revival and Tudor Revival houses. Some are sizable, 3,000 to 6,000 square feet, with prices above $1.5 million. In addition to vintage properties, the multimillion-dollar price range includes newer but equally stylish and spacious homes built from the late 1990s until the present.
Generally, the closer to the waterfront, the higher the prices. Among the luxe properties are French-style chateaus and English-inspired manors. In 2023, a lakeside Spanish-style villa with five bedrooms and over 6,000 square feet on a lot of over two acres sold for more than $12 million. And that wasn't the only sale at that price.
A variety of homes built in the second half of the 20th century are more typical of suburbia, as Cape Cods, ranch-style houses and condominium buildings were set in place. A condo under 1,000 square feet might cost under $250,000, and three- to four-bedroom homes of 1,600 to 2,500 square feet go from about $750,000 to over $1 million. O'Donoghue says homeowners invest in remodels and renovations. "There's been a lot of redevelopment over the past several years."
Several streets like Oak, Cherry, Birch, Chestnut and Linden might appeal to families in particular. "A lot of folks in Winnetka like living on the tree streets because they are more walkable and close to schools," O'Donoghue says.
Winnetka's Cape Cod homes have attached garages with driveways for comfortable parking.
The Indian Hill neighborhood of Winnetka is full of large, beautiful homes with varying styles.
1/2
Lloyd Beach, the Green Bay Trail and more
Water access is the main feature on the village's east side, with a handful of beaches just minutes from home. Lloyd Beach has a boat launch and paddleboard rentals. The Winnetka Waterfront 2030 included landscape restoration and a new breakwater system at the beach in 2020 and 2021. Season pass holders have daily access to the beaches from late May until early September.
Other outdoor enjoyment is found in the community parks and nearby nature preserves, like Erickson Woods, with a 4-mile trail linking the Skokie River. O'Donoghue says locals visit for fishing, kayaking and canoeing. "There are some really nice running and biking trails that go all around the lagoons," he says, noting that they extend as far as the Chicago Botanic Garden, about 5 miles away in Glencoe.
Another cyclist and hiker favorite is the Green Bay Trail, a paved path straight through the center of Winnetka. Other leisure and athletic sites include the public Winnetka Golf Club, the private country club Indian Hill, an ice arena and a platform tennis club. "A.C. Nielsen Tennis Center is where a lot of stuff happens," O'Donoghue says. Family friendly sports activities like community leagues are a cherished part of the Winnetka lifestyle.
Green Bay Trail in Winnetka is a great place for residents to enjoy the outdoors.
Lloyd Beach in Winnetka has a boat launch and paddleboard rentals.
1/2
Downtown Winnetka and small businesses
In downtown Winnetka, along Elm Street and Green Bay Road, there's a focus on local businesses. "The downtown has been there a long time and is centered around the Metra," O'Donoghue says. "It's walking-friendly."
Spots for dining include Fred's Garage for sandwiches and tacos; Hometown Coffee & Juice for smoothies and bagels; and Pomeroy, offering French cuisine, brunch and wine tastings.
Ellen's on Elm is a spot to pick out gifts. The shelves are full at The Book Stall, which hosts author events onsite and at public libraries or other local venues. The Grand Food Center and Lakeside Foods stock stables and specialty items to fulfill many a shopping list. For big-box stores like Target and Costco, residents head west of Interstate 94.
Hometown Coffee is a popular spot in Winnetka, especially on a nice day.
Spirit Elephant is one of the fantastic restaurants available in Winnetka.
1/2
Schools divided by levels; New Trier High
Kids may attend public schools in the Winnetka School District 36, which includes Crow Island School, serving prekindergarten through fourth grade; The Skokie School, for fifth through sixth grades; and Carleton W. Washburne School, for seventh and eighth grades. Each has an A grade from Niche. "Winnetka is a progressive education school district," O'Donoghue says. "There's a different philosophy behind the schools." For one, a letter-based grading system is not used until seventh grade.
Next up, A-plus New Trier Township High School enrolls students from Winnetka, Northfield and Glencoe. The upper-level campus is here in Winnetka, and Northfield has the one for freshmen.
Other public school districts in the area include Avoca School District 37, A-minus, and Wilmette School District 39, A. Also in Wilmette is a private option, Loyola Academy, a Jesuit Catholic high school graded A-plus.
New Trier Township High School is an excellent public school located in Winnetka.
Carleton Washburn School in Winnetka has close to 400 students in attendance.
1/2
Three Metra stations, Pace bus routes
The village has the advantage of three Metra stations: Winnetka, Hubbard Woods and Indian Hill. All are on Green Bay Road, with rail service on the Union Pacific North Line, which goes from the city's Ogilvie Transportation Center to Kenosha Station, Wisconsin's only stop. To the west of the village, Interstate 94, or the Edens Expressway, is the quickest route to drive into Chicago.
Pace Suburban Bus Route 423 provides service from Wilmette to Chicago, with stops including Winnetka Station, Winnetka Library, and both New Trier High School campuses. The route goes through Northfield, Glenview, and Niles, and there are L station stops on either end. Route 213 – Green Bay Road hits Winnetka on the way from Highland Park to Howard CTA Station. A paratransit reservation system for portions of north suburban Cook County is also available.
Written By
Hannah Rainey
Video By
EB Fox
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mark Bystrowicz,
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 Winnetka, IL sell after 20 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Winnetka, IL over the last 12 months is $1,900,000, up 16% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fully Renovated 6BR 5.5BA Classic Home in Unbeatable East Kenilworth Location. This Elegant home sits on a large lot on one of Kenilworth's most serene streets. FIRST FLOOR: Elegant LR w/ Thibault Grasscloth Wallpaper & Custom Solid Wood Built Ins, Custom Handmade Mosaic Entry, Traditional DR w/ Brick Fireplace. Kitchen boasts both a Butler's Pantry and Prep Station, Quartz Countertops and
A rare opportunity has arisen to acquire a 2-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom, full basement end unit townhouse in the esteemed neighborhood of Winnetka, conveniently located near Indian Hill Club, Joseph Sears school district, New Trier Township High School, The Kenilworth Beach, Indian Hill Metra Station Zone C, and more. This charming end-unit townhouse boasts all wood floors, a wood burning fireplace in
Stunning French Manor house on one of East Kenilworth's most beautiful streets. Stylish and sophisticated, this unique home is perfectly situated near the lake, train, Sears School, and New Trier High School. Luxurious landscaping envelopes the property, highlighted by a serene backyard pool. Expansive marble foyer opens to gracious living room and charming dining room. Dramatic floating
New magnificent transitional home situated on 1 acre picturesque lot with approximately 15,000 square feet finished space. Exterior is constructed of stone and limestone with slate roof which represents timeless construction. The house features 6 bedrooms, 7.1 bath, 4 fireplaces, spectacular Neff kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances including Sub-Zero refrigerators/freezers, luxury Wolf range,
Milena Birov@properties Christie's International Real Estate
The house is being sold as-is. Property is being sold as a two-lot subdivision. Property is in the process of being surveyed and owner is working with Northfield to subdivide the lot. Beautify private setting with mature trees along the perimeter.
Joseph Nash@properties Christie's International Real Estate
A large 5br home with a 4 car garage, a corner lot, and an amazing location! This home welcomes you with great curb appeal, starting with the front porch overlooking Elm. The main level has a separate dining and living room, and a large family room with a gas fireplace and a door to a large 2 tier deck that overlooks the backyard. The home gets great sunlight due to being on a corner lot, as most
Rarely available unique mid-century contemporary in the heart of Winnetka. Your own private paradise with a flowing interior perfect for entertaining! Soaring teak ceilings add to the Aspen style influence. Tons of windows look out to the gorgeous landscaped grounds enhanced by a pool and gazebo. This home has been beautifully maintained by the current owners.
Peggy Lewis@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Perfectly nestled on one of Winnetka's finest enclaves, this stately 6-bedroom, 5.2-bath Georgian estate offers a rare fusion of architectural elegance, exceptional craftsmanship, and resort-style amenities. Set on nearly an acre of meticulously manicured grounds, the estate is introduced by a sweeping circular drive that highlights the home's classic brick facade, brand-new DaVinci slate roof,
Susan Maman@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Situated on a quiet, highly desirable street in the heart of Winnetka, 510 Provident represents a thoughtful expression of modern North Shore architecture - where structural integrity, material quality, and enduring design converge. This new construction home offers six-bedrooms, six baths, over-scaled proportions and architectural clarity throughout. Ten-foot ceilings and vaulted second-floor
New magnificent transitional home with approximately 11,000 square feet finished space. Exterior is constructed of brick and limestone with slate roof which represents timeless construction. Close to Plaza del Lago with its numerous shops and restaurants, Kenilworth beach, schools and train the house features 7 bedrooms, 8.1 bath, 3 fireplaces, spectacular kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances
Milena Birov@properties Christie's International Real Estate
So much to love about this East Winnetka charmer, from its curb appeal and large lot to the sun-filled rooms and multiple living spaces. The bluestone walkway, front steps and porch welcome you to this perfectly sized home. Main floor features include formal living room, large eat-in kitchen, separate dining area, powder room and step-down family room. The upstairs offers 3 bedrooms, including
Welcome to this Margaret McCurry designed 5 bedroom, 6 bathroom home with a primary suite on the first floor and golf simulator and extensive lower level recreation area. Tucked off Indian Hill golf course on a special little lane, it's all here in this custom built home w/first floor primary bedroom with a spectacular floor plan and sliding doors that can define the rooms. One of a kind design
Kathryn Mangel@properties Christie's International Real Estate
Renovated 1 bedroom in a well run vintage two story building! . Hardwood floors. Bright apartment w large picture windows, Eat in kitchen with dishwasher and microwave. Large bedroom (with closet) fitting for even a king size bed. Large bathroom.Heat and water included. Clean and tidy laundry room in building plus bike storage. Classic, original details combine with fresh updates to
***Part sublet, part regular lease. Sublet 6/1-6/30, Rent is 1770-. Regular lease 7/1/26 - 6/30/27, Rent is 1895-.*** AWESOME Winnetka one bedroom apartment in walk up building on beautiful tree lined street! Unit features hardwood floors, dishwasher, good natural light and a lots of closet space. No AC, need to get window unit. Courtyard Building has shared laundry on site and Bike Room. Steps
Renovated 2 bedroom apartment in Winnetka! Features hardwood floors, spacious living area, updated kitchen & bath. Laundry available on-site. Pets welcome. Close to Hubbard Woods Park, Metra, restaurants and more! Presented by Fulton Grace, Chicago IL. *Pictures may be of a similar unit in building.
BIG REMODELED Winnetka one apartment on beautiful tree lined street! Unit features hardwood floors, SS Appliances, Dishwasher, Lots of Natural Light and Laundry in Unit. No AC, need to get window unit. Courtyard Building has shared laundry on site and Bike Room. Steps to Hubbard Woods Metra Stop. Nearby Hubbard Woods Plaza, less than a 5 min walk. Tower Road Park Beach is a super close and
UNIT FEATURES:* Hardwood Floors* Restored Wood Trim* Updated Kitchen* SS Appliances* Washer/Dryer Combo* Quartz Countertop* Island* Backsplash* Updated Bathroom* Mini Blinds* Ceiling Fans* Plenty of Closet SpaceSunshine dancing in little strips on the hardwood floors, elegant crown moldings, a fireplace, and airy living spaces - this
REMODELED Winnetka studio apartment on beautiful tree lined street! Unit features Hardwood Floors, Breakfast Bar, SS Appliances, Dishwasher, Lots of Natural Light and Laundry in Unit. No AC, need to get window unit. Courtyard Building has shared laundry on site and Bike Room. Steps to Hubbard Woods Metra Stop. Nearby Hubbard Woods Plaza, less than a 5 min walk. Tower Road Park Beach is a super
Charming 1 bedroom apartment in Winnetka! Unit features hardwood floors, spacious living area. Electric heat. Close to Metra, Hubbard Woods Park, grocery, restaurants and more! Presented by Fulton Grace, Chicago IL. *Pictures may be of a similar unit in building.
AWESOME Winnetka one bedroom GARDEN apartment on beautiful tree lined street! Unit features hardwood floors, dishwasher, good natural light and a big closet. No AC, need to get window unit. Courtyard Building has shared laundry on site and Bike Room. Steps to Hubbard Woods Metra Stop. Nearby Hubbard Woods Plaza, less than a 5 min walk. Tower Road Park Beach is a super close and Rosewood Beach
Book a tour with the link belowWelcome to your ideal rental in the charming district of Winnetka, IL! This inviting property features comfortable living spaces that are perfect for anyone seeking a vibrant neighborhood close to local amenities.Key property features include bedrooms and bathrooms that offer privacy and functionality, along with a spacious floor area
Beautiful townhome in the heart of Winnetka; close to beach, parks, schools, Metra station, restaurants and shops. Open floor layout perfect for everyday modern living, including 10-foot ceilings, custom cabinets, top-of-the-line appliances (Sub-Zero, Bosch, Thermador), hardwood floors & more. The second floor has a Master suite, a guest suite, and a laundry room. Third floor loft great for study
Listing presented by Marshall Lee, licensed leasing agent with Fulton Grace. Renovated 1 bedroom apartment in Winnetka! Unit features hardwood floors, updated kitchen & bath, separate dining area, laundry
Trevian Townhomes, located in Chicago's North Shore, at 700-708 Green Bay Rd. in Winnetka, offer the amenities of single-family living such as private backyards and garage parking. Fully renovated options feature luxury finishes including new white shaker-style cabinetry, glass backsplashes, granite countertops, new hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances. The unbeatable locations are in
Daniel Management GroupDaniel Management Group Inc
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.
