10 Richest Chicago Suburbs

10 Richest Chicago Suburbs (2024)

1. Winnetka
2. Glencoe
3. Hinsdale
4. Lake Forest
5. Burr Ridge
6. Wilmette
7. Oak Brook
8. Highland Park
9. Western Springs
10. Naperville

1. Winnetka

The richest Chicago suburb is Winnetka. It's also the richest city in Illinois as well as being one of the wealthiest cities in the US based on resident's income and local housing prices. Winnetka is situated along Lake Michigan’s Northern Shore, about 22 miles from Downtown Chicago. It is home to over 12,000 residents, all of whom appreciate the area’s tree-lined streets, local beaches, beautiful parks, and quality school systems. Its central location and abundance of amenities make this area popular among families and commuters who prefer to be close to Chicago without that crowded, inner-city feel. With the highest per capita income and average home prices of all Chicago suburbs, Winnetka is sure to impress those who prefer an upscale neighborhood. 

2. Glencoe

Glencoe is the second-richest Chicago suburb. Located just north of Winnetka, this city sits on Lake Michigan’s northern shores and is home to just over 8,600 people. Residents of Glencoe can find an abundance of natural beauty at their fingertips, from local beaches to the Cook County Forest Preserve. Additionally, with a crime rate nearly 75% below the state’s average, Glencoe is also an excellent option for families interested in safe and secure streets. Home values in this area average $1.39 Million, making Glencoe one of the most expensive places to live in the Chicago metropolitan area. 

3. Hinsdale

Located roughly 20 miles west of Downtown Chicago, Hinsdale is another one of Chicago’s richest suburbs. This affluent area is known for its upscale quality of life and is also an epicenter of commercial industry. A perfect area for foodies, art lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, the city’s local urban amenities include an abundance of bakeries, restaurants, art galleries, country clubs, golf courses, and parks. Additional family-friendly attractions include the Katherine Legge Memorial Park and the Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park. Home prices in Hinsdale average $1.06 Million, making it a luxurious part of Chicago’s surrounding landscape.  

4. Lake Forest

Lake Forest is a wealthy Chicago suburb that is also one of the richest cities in Illinois. This wealthy city sits along the northern shores of Lake Michigan and is about 27 miles north of the Chicago Loop. Over 19,000 residents inhabit Lake Forest and enjoy the area for its stunning Tudor-style architecture, charming downtown area, and an abundance of local brunch spots, wine bars, tea rooms, and bistros.

Locals can either drive or take the train into downtown Chicago, making it easily accessible to the city center. The median per capita income in Lake Forest is $102,680 and the median home price is $1.04 Million. With both high per capita incomes and home prices, Lake Forest is easily one of the most expensive Chicago suburbs.    

5. Burr Ridge

Burr Ridge is also one of the wealthiest Chicago suburbs. A prosperous city sitting just south of Hinsdale, Burr Ridge has a population of just over 11,000 people. Residents of this wealthy neighborhood can enjoy quick access to the Chicago Loop and the local airport, as well as all the fine dining, upscale shopping, and quality recreation one could ask for. Additionally, it is one of the few areas near Chicago with land available for property development, making it a great choice for those who prefer to build their homes. Overall, Burr Ridge is a wealthy Chicago suburb with much to offer local residents. 

6. Wilmette

Wilmette is another one of the richest cities in Illinois. This suburb of Chicago is located close to Downtown Chicago, just 19 miles from the city center. Wilmette features some of the best views of Lake Michigan’s North Shore. It is home to roughly 27,600 people, all of whom prefer the area for its friendly atmosphere, lakefront access, aesthetic brick streets, and excellent public transportation. Other local urban amenities include plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and quick access to Chicago. Home values here average $882k, making Wilmette one of the most expensive Chicago suburbs. 

7. Oak Brook

Oak Brook is another one of the most affluent suburbs of Chicago. Oak Brook is a village in DuPage County located about 20 miles west of Chicago. It’s home to about 8,000 residents as of the 2020 census. Despite being a small suburb, many top companies have headquarters in Oak Brook, including Ace Hardware, Blistex, and CenterPoint Properties. It’s also home to the most expensive property in DuPage County, an $8 million mansion that once belonged to MLB Hall of Famer Frank Thomas. In 2017, Oak Brook landed on Bloomberg’s list of 100 wealthiest places in America. It currently has a median household income of $94,630 and an average home price of $810,552.

8. Highland Park

Highland Park is a wealthy Chicago suburb that is perfect for music lovers. Located along Lake Michigan’s North Shore, this area is home to one of the country’s most prestigious music festivals – the Ravinia Festival. Additionally, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra makes Highland Park its home during the summer months. This abundant local music scene has helped Highland Park become an epicenter for the arts; as such, it is home to several theaters and fine arts centers. Other amenities in this area include boutiques, luxury storefronts, restaurants, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Per capita incomes and home prices in this area are among the highest surrounding Chicago, making it a go-to area for wealthy individuals with an artistic spirit.

9. Western Springs

Western Springs is a rich Chicago suburb that is best for those who prefer an active local community. This area is home to over 13,000 residents, all of whom strive to make Western Springs a thriving, tightly-knit city. Community events are common here, as are bustling downtown shopping districts and locally owned restaurants. Additionally, Downtown Chicago is only a short train ride away, making this a top choice among city commuters. With high home prices and local per capita income rates, Western Springs is an ideal choice for wealthy families looking for a strong sense of community. 

10. Naperville

Naperville is also one of the richest Chicago suburbs. Located about 33 miles west of Chicago, Naperville is a vibrant city that is home to just under 150,000 residents, making it the fourth largest city in Illinois. The picturesque suburb is known for its well-respected schools, beautiful parks, and variety of shopping and dining options. As a result, it consistently ranks among the best places to live in the country. The median household income in Naperville is $69,308, and the average home price is $546,695.

Richest Chicago Suburbs Compared