7 Best Neighborhoods in Elmhurst, IL for Families
Finding the best neighborhoods in Elmhurst, IL, for families means discovering areas with excellent schools, safe streets, and strong community connections. Elmhurst offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience, making it one of the most desirable places to raise children in the Chicago area. Each neighborhood brings its own character, from tree-lined streets to modern amenities and family-focused activities. Whether you're relocating from across the country or moving within Illinois, understanding what each area offers helps you make the right choice for your family's future.
This guide explores seven outstanding family-friendly neighborhoods in Elmhurst, Illinois, that provide everything growing families need to thrive.
Why Elmhurst Is Perfect for Raising a Family
Elmhurst stands out as an exceptional community for families seeking quality education and safe living environments. The city consistently ranks among the top places to live in Illinois, thanks to its award-winning schools and low crime rates. Families enjoy easy access to Chicago while maintaining a peaceful suburban lifestyle with excellent parks, libraries, and recreational facilities. The strong sense of community and well-maintained neighborhoods create an ideal environment for children to grow and families to build lasting friendships.
1. South Elmhurst
South Elmhurst offers families a welcoming atmosphere with convenient access to downtown amenities and local schools. This established neighborhood features well-maintained homes on quiet streets where children can play safely, and neighbors know each other by name.
South Elmhurst provides easy walking access to downtown Elmhurst's restaurants, shops, and community events. The neighborhood's mature trees create a picturesque setting, while sidewalks throughout the area encourage outdoor activities and neighborhood connections. Families appreciate the strong community involvement and the area's commitment to maintaining safe, clean streets.
Hawthorne Elementary School serves the area, providing quality education within walking distance for many residents. Wilder Park sits just minutes away, offering playgrounds, sports fields, and the Wilder Mansion for community events. The Elmhurst Public Library downtown gives families access to programs and resources year-round.
Homes in South Elmhurst typically range from $450,000 to $650,000, depending on size and updates. The neighborhood offers a mix of classic bungalows and updated single-family homes.
2. Berens Park
Berens Park takes its name from the beloved neighborhood park and creates a tight-knit community atmosphere. This area attracts families who value outdoor recreation and strong neighborhood bonds in safe neighborhoods of Elmhurst, Illinois.
The neighborhood centers around Berens Park, which hosts summer concerts, holiday celebrations, and informal gatherings throughout the year. Wide streets with minimal traffic create safe spaces for children to ride bikes and play. The area's strong homeowners' association organizes regular events that bring neighbors together.
Field Park Elementary School provides excellent education options for elementary-age children in the neighborhood. Beyond the namesake Berens Park, families enjoy proximity to the Salt Creek Greenway Trail for biking and walking. York Community High School serves older students with comprehensive academic programs.
Single-family homes in Berens Park generally sell between $425,000 and $575,000. The neighborhood features primarily ranch-style and bi-level homes on generously sized lots.
3. Cherry Farm
Cherry Farm represents one of Elmhurst's most sought-after neighborhoods for families prioritizing space and privacy. This area features larger lots and newer construction that appeals to growing families needing room to spread out.
Cherry Farm's spacious properties give children room to play safely in their own yards while maintaining the community feel. The neighborhood's well-planned layout includes cul-de-sacs that minimize through traffic and create natural play areas. Families here enjoy a peaceful environment while staying close to excellent schools.
Lincoln Elementary School ranks among the top schools in Elmhurst School District 205, serving Cherry Farm families. Wild Meadows Trace provides natural play areas and walking paths where families can explore nature together. The nearby Elmhurst Park District facilities offer year-round programming for children.
Homes in Cherry Farm typically start around $550,000 and can exceed $800,000 for larger properties. The neighborhood features predominantly single-family homes built within the last few decades.
4. Elmhurst Parkside
Elmhurst Parkside combines accessibility with family-friendly amenities in a convenient location. This neighborhood attracts families who want easy commuting options without sacrificing quality schools and community connections.
The neighborhood's central location means families can walk to numerous parks, schools, and local businesses within minutes. Elmhurst Parkside maintains a strong neighborhood watch program that contributes to the area's reputation as one of the safe neighborhoods Elmhurst, Illinois, offers. Regular community gatherings help neighbors build lasting relationships.
Sandburg Middle School and Hawthorne Elementary School both serve Elmhurst Parkside, giving families excellent educational options. Eldridge Park features updated playground equipment and open fields perfect for family activities. The Metra station's proximity allows working parents easy access to Chicago.
Properties in Elmhurst Parkside range from $400,000 to $600,000, offering good value for families. The area includes diverse housing styles from classic Chicagoland bungalows to updated two-story homes.
5. Crescent Park
Crescent Park offers families a blend of established charm and modern convenience in the heart of Elmhurst. This neighborhood stands out for its walkability and strong sense of community among family-friendly neighborhoods in Elmhurst, IL.
Tree-lined streets and well-maintained sidewalks make Crescent Park ideal for evening family walks and children riding bikes. The neighborhood's proximity to downtown Elmhurst means families can walk to restaurants, festivals, and community events throughout the year. Active neighborhood associations organize regular activities that bring families together.
Bryan Middle School and Jefferson Elementary School provide quality education options within the neighborhood. Crescent Park itself offers playground equipment and open spaces where families gather for informal playdates. The Elmhurst History Museum provides educational opportunities and hosts family-friendly events.
Homes in Crescent Park typically sell between $475,000 and $650,000. The neighborhood features a mix of architectural styles, including Tudor Revival and Colonial homes.
6. Elmhurst Highlands
Elmhurst Highlands represents an established neighborhood where families build long-term roots. This area combines quiet residential streets with convenient access to shopping, dining, and recreational facilities.
The neighborhood's mature landscape creates a peaceful environment while maintaining easy access to family amenities. Elmhurst Highlands features minimal through traffic, making streets safe for children to play and explore. Long-term residents create a stable community where families often stay for decades.
Emerson Elementary School serves the area with strong academic programs and dedicated teachers. Crestview Park provides playground equipment, sports fields, and picnic areas perfect for family gatherings. York Theatre downtown offers family-friendly entertainment options within easy reach.
Properties in Elmhurst Highlands generally range from $450,000 to $625,000. The area features predominantly single-family homes with traditional designs and well-maintained yards.
7. Stratford Hills
Stratford Hills rounds out our list with its combination of newer construction and family-focused amenities. This neighborhood appeals to families seeking modern homes in a well-established community setting.
Stratford Hills offers contemporary floor plans and updated infrastructure that meet modern family needs. The neighborhood's organized layout includes sidewalks throughout, encouraging walking and outdoor activities. Families appreciate the area's commitment to maintaining high property standards and safe streets.
Admiral Byrd Elementary School provides excellent educational opportunities for elementary students in the area. Wilder Park and its extensive facilities sit nearby, offering swimming, sports, and year-round recreational programs. The neighborhood's proximity to Spring Road gives families easy access to shopping.
Homes in Stratford Hills typically sell between $500,000 and $700,000. The neighborhood features primarily two-story single-family homes with modern amenities.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Neighborhoods in Elmhurst, IL for Families
Selecting the right neighborhood requires evaluating several factors beyond home prices and square footage.
When planning your move, resources like a step-by-step moving checklist keep you organized throughout the transition. Understanding how to create a moving budget for Minooka relocation helps manage expenses effectively. Park access, recreational facilities, and community programs contribute significantly to family quality of life.
- School District Ratings and Performance: Research individual school test scores, teacher-to-student ratios, and extracurricular offerings before committing to a neighborhood.
- Walkability and Sidewalk Infrastructure: Neighborhoods with complete sidewalk systems allow children to walk or bike to school safely and encourage outdoor activity.
- Community Event Participation: Areas with active neighborhood associations and regular events create opportunities for families to connect and build lasting friendships.
- Property Tax Considerations: Elmhurst property taxes vary by neighborhood and directly impact your monthly housing costs beyond mortgage payments.
- Future Development Plans: Check with the City of Elmhurst about planned infrastructure improvements or commercial developments that might affect your chosen neighborhood's character.
Conclusion
The best neighborhoods in Elmhurst, IL, for families offer exceptional schools, safe streets, and vibrant community connections that help children thrive. From South Elmhurst's downtown accessibility to Stratford Hills' modern amenities, each neighborhood provides unique advantages for growing families. Moving to Elmhurst with kids means choosing an area that supports your family's educational goals, recreational needs, and long-term happiness.
We, at Fly Guy Moving, understand that relocating with children requires careful planning and reliable support throughout the process. Our experienced team specializes in making family moves smooth and stress-free, handling your belongings with care while you focus on helping your children adjust to their new neighborhood. Contact Fly Guy Moving today to start planning your family's move to one of Elmhurst's outstanding neighborhoods.
