Are you looking for the wealthiest places in Chicago? If you’re someone who dreams of living in luxury, surrounded by stunning homes and world-class amenities, then you’ve come to the right place.
Chicago is a bustling city with a rich history and culture, but it’s the exclusive neighborhoods surrounding it that truly take the cake.
From picturesque lakefront mansions to sprawling estates, the suburbs of Chicago boast some of the most impressive and opulent homes in the country.
In this article, we will explore the top suburbs for the affluent in the Chicago area, taking a deep dive into their unique features, attractions, and housing markets.
Whether you’re considering a move to the Windy City or just curious about the luxurious neighborhoods nearby, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let us be your guide as we show you the most coveted communities in the Chicago area.
By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your next move.
Richest Neighborhoods in Chicago
1. Winnetka
Winnetka is a picturesque village in Cook County, Illinois, and one of the North Shore suburbs that create the affluent “North Shore” area near Chicago.
With a population of 12,428 in 2019, Winnetka has some of the most opulent neighborhoods that many successful professionals call home.
The median household income in this stunning community is $250K+, while the typical home value reaches around $1.4M – that’s about seven times more than the national average!
This makes Winnetka an appealing location for those seeking luxurious living near elite communities. Not only does Winnetka showcase beautiful homes and landscapes but also prides itself on exceptional education facilities.
With a high school graduation rate of 98% and 99% of adult residents holding college degrees or higher, education remains a significant priority within this community.
Experience an upscale lifestyle, top-tier neighborhoods, and incredible schooling when you choose Winnetka as your new home.
2. Kenilworth
Kenilworth is a picturesque village located in Cook County, Illinois, and is known as one of the wealthiest suburbs in the United States.
Famous for its “Wall Street of Chicago” and an exclusive gated community called The Kenilworth, this suburb provides an upscale living experience near bustling Chicago.
Boasting a remarkable median household income of $241K and 78% of residents holding at least a bachelor’s degree, Kenilworth stands out as a highly affluent neighborhood.
The village features stunning homes with a median value of $1.19M and rents around $3,600 per month. Kenilworth’s strategic location within the north-central part of Chicago offers access to various city amenities while maintaining its suburban charm.
If you’re seeking prestige alongside comfort in your new residence, consider the lavish estates found within Kenilworth to experience high-end real estate surrounded by wealth and success.
3. Glencoe
Glencoe is an affluent Chicago suburb situated in the beautiful state of Illinois, about 31 miles northwest of the city’s downtown area. As of 2023, Glencoe has a population of 8,448 residents who enjoy its luxurious offerings and peaceful surroundings.
With a high median income of $212K and housing values averaging around $1.1M, Glencoe truly stands out as one of the richest suburbs in the region. Unlike other wealthy enclaves, Glencoe has a cost-of-living index that’s estimated to be 16% lower than the national average.
More than just an upscale location with exquisite homes and manicured lawns, Glencoe prides itself on having over 80% homeownership and a rapidly growing population. The community offers excellent educational opportunities as well as various recreational spaces for families and individuals alike.
If you’re searching for an upscale living experience in a thriving Chicagoland suburb that boasts both elegance and affordability, consider making Glencoe your new home!
4. Inverness
Inverness is a lovely suburb located in the northwest area of Chicago, offering an upscale lifestyle for its residents. With a median household income of $190K, Inverness attracts successful individuals looking for a comfortable place to call home.
This vibrant neighborhood has around 7,400 people and offers spacious houses with attractive features. The community is known for having top-rated schools and fantastic recreational facilities, making it ideal for families who value education and leisure time.
Close to downtown Chicago yet nestled within peaceful surroundings, Inverness provides the perfect balance between city life and suburban tranquility for those who want the best of both worlds.
5. Barrington Hills
Barrington Hills is a gorgeous suburb located about 25 miles northwest of Chicago, offering an upscale lifestyle for its 10,327 residents. With a median household income of $126K and a median home value of around $660K, it’s no wonder that this community attracts successful people and their families.
One of the reasons Barrington Hills has become so popular is its proximity to Chicago, making commuting to the city easy for working professionals. Surrounded by beautiful natural preserves like Lake Cook Road, this affluent town offers plenty of green spaces for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Experience luxurious living in one of the largest and most prestigious suburbs in the Chicago area when you choose Barrington Hills as your new home.
6. Lake Forest
Lake Forest is a stunning suburb nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, just north of Chicago. This affluent community has a median household income of $194K per year, making it one of the wealthiest areas in the nation.
Around 20,000 residents enjoy living in beautiful homes with plenty of space for their families to grow. The city features several distinct neighborhoods and easy access to shopping centers, art galleries, and recreational facilities like bike paths and parks.
The excellent schools and mild weather make Lake Forest an ideal place for year-round living close to major cities like Chicago and Milwaukee. When you choose Lake Forest as your home, you’ll experience luxurious living surrounded by natural beauty!
7. Oak Brook
Oak Brook is a prosperous Chicago suburb known for its high median household income of $146K, making it one of the wealthiest communities in the United States.
Around 7,883 residents enjoy living in this upscale area with convenient access to both Chicago Downtown Loop and O’Hare International Airport.
The median home price in Oak Brook is a stunning $700K, while the median rent is around $1,846 per month. With fantastic dining options and shopping centers nearby, there’s always something to do or explore here.
If you’re searching for an elegant neighborhood that offers sophistication and comfort close to all that Chicago has to offer, Oak Brook might be just what you’ve been looking for!
8. North Barrington
North Barrington is a charming suburb of Chicago found in lovely Cook County, Illinois. With approximately 3,047 residents, this affluent community offers elegant homes and an upscale lifestyle for families and professionals alike. The median household income in North Barrington is $126K+, making it a thriving area that attracts successful individuals.
With fantastic public and private schools nearby, education plays a significant role in this community’s values. Residents can also enjoy leisure activities at places like Buffalo Creek Golf Club and Pines Theater or explore the shopping centers like Glencoe Mills and Harps Food Stores.
Choose North Barrington as your new home for a luxurious living experience surrounded by beautiful nature and top-notch amenities near Chicago!
9. South Barrington
South Barrington is a delightful Chicago suburb known for its luxurious living and a high median income of $198K. With an impressive median home cost of $841K and a low poverty rate of only 1.8%, South Barrington offers a safe and prosperous environment for its residents.
The community is built around the beautiful Lake Barrington, providing picturesque views and outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy. Top attractions like the Ravinia Festival and various golf courses are close by, making this affluent town even more appealing.
Excellent schools and access to prestigious fields such as medicine, finance, and law make South Barrington perfect for those seeking a sophisticated lifestyle within easy reach of Chicago’s bustling city life!
10. Highland Park
Highland Park is an affluent suburb of Chicago, located in Lake County, Illinois. It has 30,177 residents who enjoy a high standard of living with a median household income of $93K.
Known for being one of the most prosperous suburbs in the Chicago Metropolitan Area, Highland Park offers exclusive residential areas and luxury properties at a median cost of $600K.
Residents have access to top-rated schools that foster academic excellence and contribute positively to the community’s overall quality of life. This opulent neighborhood features beautiful lakefront views and numerous activities for both locals and visitors alike!
Just a short train ride away from downtown Chicago, Highland Park provides families or individuals seeking an upscale lifestyle with easy access to exciting city attractions while enjoying their own classy suburban haven.