Suburb Spotlight: Highland Park Real Estate
Welcome to another chapter in our Suburb Spotlight series! So far we’ve traveled to Park Ridge and Winnetka. Today we’re venturing off to one of Chicago’s most adored suburbs — Highland Park. Known for its vibrant community, diverse property options, and scenic beauty, Highland Park is nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan and offers an array of opportunities for prospective homebuyers and investors alike. Let’s dive in!
Highland Park Real Estate Overview
Downtown Highland Park, Illinois
Highland Park boasts a diverse real estate environment reflective of its broad demographic. With its median home prices and distinguished neighborhoods, Highland Park fulfills the aspirations of prospective homebuyers offering them an array of choices. Not only do the residents get to enjoy a number of Highland Park restaurants, but they also have access to the city’s vibrant economy.
Highland Park offers a wide range of properties, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and apartments, to meet the unique needs and preferences of its residents. The city is home to renowned neighborhoods such as Augusta Way, Brittany Hills, Sherwood Forest, and the nearby Lake Forest area, each with its unique charm and appeal.
Median Home Prices
The escalating home prices in Highland Park are indicative of the area’s excellent standard of living and its attractiveness. Highland Park’s median home prices stand higher than the national average, with the median sold home price pegged at $608,000, giving testament to the robust local economy. Over the past five years, the median home prices in Highland Park have witnessed substantial growth, signifying the increasing demand for properties in the area.
Property Types
The real estate scene in Highland Park is as varied as its residents, with different property types available to suit a range of lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a single-family home, a condo, or a townhouse, Highland Park has it all. The single-family homes in the city come in an array of styles, including traditional, modern, and contemporary designs.
Townhouses in Highland Park are characterized by:
Spacious floor plans
Private outdoor spaces
Modern conveniences
Communal facilities
Desirable locations with minimal upkeep
Meanwhile, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms in single-family homes varies depending on the size and layout of the property, providing plenty of options for prospective buyers.
Notable Neighborhoods
Highland Park is home to several notable neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of amenities, safety, and accessibility. The city boasts over 44 parks administered by the Park District of Highland Park, sprawled over 700 acres of land. Residents of the city have a variety of recreational opportunities to choose from. Some highlights include:
Beaches
Dog parks
Neighborhoods like Brittany Hills, Braeside, and The Reserve that are particularly appealing to families
Highland Park is known for its tranquil, historic charm. The city features amenities like:
Clubhouses
Outdoor pools
Fitness centers
Libraries
The city also has a low crime rate, contributing to its reputation as one of the safest cities in the United States.
The Benefits of Living in Highland Park
Lake Michigan shoreline in Highland Park, Illinois
Residing in Highland Park brings a number of advantages. From its proximity to Lake Michigan to its strong community atmosphere and convenient location near Chicago, the city offers its residents a lifestyle that’s hard to match. Highland Park also organizes a range of community events that foster a strong sense of belonging among its residents.
The city is just 25 miles north of downtown Chicago, offering easy access to the vibrant city life. The journey from Highland Park to Chicago is smooth and effortless, thanks to various transportation options including the Pace bus #213 and Metra’s express line. Despite being so close to the hustle and bustle of the city, Highland Park maintains its tranquility and is considered one of the safer suburbs in the Chicago region.
Proximity to Lake Michigan
Living near Lake Michigan is like having your own piece of paradise. The picturesque views, the recreational activities, and the tranquil atmosphere make life in Highland Park a truly enriching experience. Lake Michigan offers a host of recreational activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
The renowned views of Lake Michigan in Highland Park, such as those from Rosewood Beach Park and Moraine Park, further add to the charm of living in this city. Moreover, proximity to the lake is often associated with higher property values, making it an attractive proposition for homebuyers and investors.
Strong Community Atmosphere
Highland Park is more than just a city. It’s a community where people come together to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The city is home to a diverse population and boasts excellent educational institutions.
Highland Park’s schools are rated highly in comparison to other schools in Illinois, contributing to the city’s strong community atmosphere. Despite the need for vigilance, Highland Park maintains a lower crime rate than many other Chicago suburbs, making it a safe place for families and individuals alike.
Convenient Location
Highland Park’s location is one of its biggest selling points. Situated just north of downtown Chicago, the city offers the perfect blend of suburban serenity and city vibrancy. The primary modes of transportation from Highland Park to Chicago include public transportation such as buses and trains, making commuting a breeze.
However, like any city, commuting during peak hours can be a bit of a challenge, with the commute time potentially doubling. Nevertheless, the convenience and accessibility offered by Highland Park, coupled with its tranquil environment, make it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Highland Park School System
Education holds a prominent place in Highland Park. The city’s school system is highly regarded, offering top-rated schools that cater to the educational needs of its young residents. The North Shore School District 112 — which encompasses the schools located in Highland Park — is known for its commitment to providing high-quality education.
The education offered in Highland Park’s schools stands out among other school systems in Illinois. With schools like Highland Park High School and Braeside Elementary School ranking among the top in the state, the city’s commitment to education is evident. Moreover, with a high student-to-teacher ratio, students receive personalized attention, ensuring they get the most out of their educational experience.
Outdoor Activities & Attractions in Highland Park
Entrance to Highland Park’s Ravinia Festival
Highland Park is a haven for those who love the outdoors. The city has plenty of parks, sports facilities, and outdoor attractions that provide residents with numerous opportunities for leisure and recreation. The city’s close proximity to Lake Michigan adds to the plethora of outdoor activities available, making it a favorite among residents and visitors alike.
The Ravinia Festival — featuring outdoor concerts and performances every Summer from June to September — is a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. The city is also home to several noteworthy outdoor attractions such as the Chicago Botanic Garden, Downtown Highland Park, and Skokie Lagoons, offering a mix of natural beauty and urban charm.
Dining & Entertainment Options in Highland Park
Highland Park prides itself on its dynamic dining scene that accommodates a broad spectrum of culinary tastes. From cozy cafes to fine dining restaurants, the city has it all. The most commonly consumed cuisines in Highland Park include:
American
Italian
Japanese
Contemporary American
For entertainment, Highland Park doesn’t disappoint. The city offers a variety of options, from live music at Norton’s to a more upscale dining experience at Bluegrass. With so many dining and entertainment options available, there’s never a dull moment in Highland Park.
Tips for Buying a Home in Highland Park
Purchasing a home in Highland Park can be a thrilling adventure. Here are some tips for a seamless home buying process. Understanding the local real estate market is a key first step. Research the median home prices, the types of properties available, and the most popular neighborhoods.
Next, collaborating with an experienced real estate agent can prove extremely beneficial. They can provide:
extensive market knowledge
access to exclusive listings
tailored property selection
skilled negotiation
local knowledge of the area
Keep in mind that buying a home is a major investment, and making a well-informed decision is paramount.
Highland Park Real Estate Market Trends
The Highland Park real estate market has been demonstrating positive trends, signifying a steady and expanding market. Over the years, the city has witnessed a notable rise in property values and a high demand for homes, demonstrating a robust real estate market.
The current real estate market trends indicate:
Steady growth in home values
Healthy demand for properties
Home values that are higher than the national median, indicative of a strong market
With these promising trends, Highland Park continues to attract both homebuyers and investors.
Financing Options for Highland Park Homebuyers
Aerial view of homes in Highland Park, Illinois
Highland Park homebuyers have access to a variety of financing options. From various mortgage programs to assistance from local lenders, there are plenty of resources to help homebuyers find the right financing solution. The most prevalent mortgage program for Highland Park homebuyers is the mortgage relief grant provided by the IHDA (Illinois Housing Development Authority).
Local lenders that offer special financing options for homebuyers include:
Navy Federal Credit Union
Wells Fargo
Chase
These lenders offer a personalized approach, accurate estimates, potentially lower rates, and bonus benefits, making the homebuying process smoother and more convenient.
Final Thoughts
Highland Park’s diverse real estate market, top-rated schools, vibrant dining scene, and proximity to Lake Michigan make it a wonderful place to call home. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an investor, Highland Park provides a wealth of opportunities for you to explore. Remember, buying a home is not just about finding the perfect property, it’s about finding a community.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help tracking down your dream home. From Arlington Heights to Highland Park, I’ve served clients all over the Chicagoland real estate market. Leverage my skills and experience to make your dreams a reality!
Questions From My Clients
Is Highland Park Illinois a nice place to live?
Highland Park is a safe place to live, with a crime rate 66% lower than the national average and 60% lower than the Illinois average. As part of Lake County — which is ranked one of the best places to live in Illinois — Highland Park offers a dense suburban feel with lots of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.
Is Highland Park IL expensive?
Highland Park IL is expensive, with the cost of living 33% higher than the US average. Expect housing to cost significantly more than the national median.
What types of properties are available in Highland Park?
Highland Park has a variety of properties available, such as single-family homes, condos, and townhouses.