Northbrook

Living in Northbrook, Illinois

Northbrook is a well-established, upscale suburb north of Chicago that combines suburban calm with abundant amenities, strong schools, and a close-knit community feel. For many, it represents some of the best of North Shore living: comfortable, elegant, and family-friendly.

Key Highlights

Community & Lifestyle

• Tree-lined streets, quiet neighborhoods, and well-maintained parks make Northbrook feel serene and welcoming.

• There’s a nice mix of conveniences: good local restaurants, coffee shops, shopping (including Northbrook Court), and easy access to cultural & recreational facilities. 

• The village emphasizes quality of life—with strong park districts, walking & biking paths, community events, and public services that are well-regarded. 

Schools & Family Appeal

• Public schools in Northbrook are among its strongest assets. Highly rated school districts serve the area, which is a big draw for families. 

• The typical household size, presence of family-oriented programs, parks, youth facilities make it a place many raise children. There’s also a sense of safety and stability. 

Real Estate & Housing

• Housing tends toward the premium side. Homes are generally well built, and many neighborhoods feature larger lots and mature landscaping. 

• Median home values are high relative to many suburbs (several sources list $500,000-$650,000+ depending on location & home type). 

• There are a variety of housing types: single-family homes dominate, but there are also some condominiums or townhomes for more modest budgets. Proximity to amenities (transit, shopping, parks) often factors heavily into price. 

Commute & Location

• Northbrook is well located for people needing access to Chicago: major roads and transit lines make commuting feasible. 

• Many residents enjoy that Northbrook has the feel of being removed from the bustle, but still not so far that major shopping, work, or city entertainment are out of reach. 

Demographics & Cost of Living

• The population is around 34,000-35,000. The median age is somewhat higher (reflecting many homeowners and empty nesters), and incomes are above average for the region. 

• Cost of living is relatively high: housing costs, property taxes, and services reflect the quality of life and amenities. For many, the trade-offs are worth it for the schools, safety, and neighborhood feel.