6 Reasons to Move to the Suburbs

The idea of leaving the city can feel like a big decision, especially when the skyline has always been your backdrop. But for many Chicagoans, there comes a time when priorities shift: more space, better schools, less stress. If you’re starting to picture life beyond the city, these six reasons to live in the suburbs might just confirm it’s the right move.

There’s no getting around it: space is one of the biggest advantages of moving to the suburbs. Compared to a two-bedroom condo in Lakeview or a vintage walk-up in Logan Square, many suburban homes offer larger footprints, finished basements, garages, and private yards. For families, remote workers, or anyone who wants a bit more breathing room, the upgrade in daily comfort is hard to ignore.

Suburban communities like Naperville and Elmhurst provide homes where open-concept kitchens flow into spacious living rooms, and backyards become places to gather, garden, or simply relax. You don’t have to leave Chicagoland. You just get more of it.

It’s no secret that city living comes at a premium, especially when it comes to square footage. In many of Chicago’s suburbs, your housing dollar stretches significantly further. That might mean an extra bedroom, a yard, a two-car garage, or all three.

In practical terms, the cost of a two-bedroom condo downtown can often match that of a four-bedroom home in towns like La Grange or Downers Grove. And while prices can still vary widely across the suburbs, the value per square foot is consistently stronger. For buyers thinking long-term, the decision to live in the suburbs is often just as much about financial strategy as it is about lifestyle.

For many buyers, education is one of the primary motivators for moving to the suburbs. Chicagoland is home to some of the best public school districts in the state, with suburbs like Hinsdale, Glenview, and Northbrook regularly earning top marks for academic performance, extracurriculars, and college readiness.

Even if you don’t have kids yet (or don’t plan to), living in a top-tier school district can be a wise investment. Strong schools tend to support higher resale values, attract future buyers, and offer added stability in shifting markets.

City life has a certain energy, but for many, that energy can start to feel like noise. Traffic, limited parking, crowded sidewalks, and tight stairwells lose their charm when life gets busier or more complicated. The suburbs offer a different rhythm: quieter streets, easier commutes (especially with flexible or hybrid work), and the ability to slow down just a little.

That doesn’t mean giving up good coffee or dining out. Suburbs like Oak Park, Evanston, and Arlington Heights feature thriving downtown areas, full of restaurants, boutiques, and community events, without the congestion and intensity of the Loop.

One of the perks of suburban living? Easy access to green space. While Chicago’s lakefront and parks are incredible, they can’t match the range of outdoor options available just a few miles outside the city.

From forest preserves and bike trails to golf courses, lakes, and weekend farmers markets, the suburbs make it easy to enjoy the outdoors without a long drive or a packed schedule. Whether it’s hiking through Waterfall Glen, walking the dog along the Prairie Path, or watching kids play soccer in the backyard, these small daily moments can make a big impact on quality of life.

There’s something to be said for knowing your neighbors. In many suburban towns, community is more than a buzzword; it’s built into the culture. From seasonal festivals and school fundraisers to local businesses and block parties, the suburbs often provide a more connected and communal experience.

Places like Western Springs, Glen Ellyn, and Wilmette are known for their welcoming vibe and civic pride. It’s not just about having more space. It’s about putting down roots somewhere that feels truly yours.

Leaving the city doesn’t mean giving anything up. It’s about gaining more of what matters to you. Whether it’s space to grow, room to breathe, or a better everyday routine, the suburbs offer a lifestyle that supports long-term comfort, value, and connection. And with so many communities across the Chicagoland area, there’s a suburb to match just about every lifestyle.

If you're thinking about making the move to the suburbs, Jerry Goodwin can help you find the right fit. With deep local knowledge, honest advice, and a smart approach to real estate, Jerry is your go-to resource for navigating the shift from city to suburbs. Whether you’re just exploring your options or ready to make a move, reach out today and start the conversation.