E
lmhurst, Illinois, a suburb just west of Chicago, is experiencing a surge in popularity among young families and professionals seeking a balance between small-town charm and big-city access. With its walkable streets, top-rated schools, and proximity to the Metra train, which takes commuters to downtown Chicago in under 20 minutes, Elmhurst has become a magnet for those looking to escape the city's high prices.

    Real estate agent Molly Radoha, who has lived in Elmhurst for over three decades, notes that almost all newcomers are coming from Chicago and are ready to spend. The area offers relative affordability with a median home price around $500,000, but prices are climbing quickly. New construction is booming, with homes listed north of $1.4 million popping up across the suburb.

    Buyers are often dual-income millennials migrating from Chicago with significant savings or family support. They're drawn to Elmhurst's amenity-rich lifestyle, which includes over 50 restaurants, 40 shops, a thriving public library, and nearly 30 parks. The town also boasts a vibrant downtown, award-winning parks, and community events like the Rock the Block festival.

    Elmhurst University adds a college-town feel, and some graduates stick around after finishing school, citing the town's easy access to Chicago. The suburb's location is unbeatable, with major interstates accessible in just five minutes. Radoha says Elmhurst is finally getting the recognition it deserves as "the best suburb in Illinois."