A recent study reported by 24/7 Wall Street found the priciest county in each state by using data from the National Association of Realtors. In Illinois, DuPage County ranks as the most expensive for homeowners.

DuPage County has a reported median home price of $316,749 with the median household income ($81,521) about $20,000 more than the statewide median. The western county is the state’s second-most populous, and it’s home to some of the most desirable communities.

Niche used U.S. Census data and statistics regarding the cost of living, public schools, job markets, and local amenities to determine the 2018 Best Places to Live in DuPage County. Those looking to buy a home in DuPage have plenty of options when searching for a neighborhood to match their lifestyle. 

Clarendon Hills

Photo courtesy of Village of Clarendon Hills

Explore Neighborhoods in Clarendon Hills, IL

Clarendon Hills has received a number of accolades over the years, including the No. 1 ranking on Niche’s 2018 list of Best Places to Live in DuPage County. According to the website, the median home value is $485,900, and the community is known for its high-ranking schools, great nightlife, family-friendly atmosphere, and outdoor activities. Clarendon Hills is in eastern DuPage County near Interstate-294 and Route 83, offering easy access to downtown Chicago and the surrounding area.

Naperville

Riverwalk in Naperville photo by Shutterstock

Explore Neighborhoods in Naperville, IL

Naperville is widely known for its riverwalk, quaint downtown, and high-quality lifestyle that year after year keeps the community in the top tier of best places to live. The community has a population of 145,789 people and the median price of a home is $388,400. Naperville is home to Centennial Beach, Knoch Knolls Nature Center, and several forest preserves. Downtown Naperville is a popular hot spot for eating, drinking, and shopping. 

Hinsdale

Downtown Hinsdale photo courtesy of Dennisyerger84

Explore Neighborhoods in Hinsdale, IL

For the past few decades, Hinsdale has been a hub for large homes and mansions. While many are newer constructions, the community still has a good amount of historic homes. The small town has a population of just more than 17,000, and the median home value is $859,400. Hinsdale is the suburb for local celebrities and athletes to call home. The town is within easy access to downtown Chicago via the Metra train line, which has express trains that can take less than 30 minutes. 

Lisle

Lisle Visitor Center photo courtesy of Center for Neighborhood Technology 

Explore Neighborhoods in Lisle, IL

Lisle is home to nearly 23,000 people, according to Niche, and it’s located right off interstates 355 and 88. The community is most widely known as the home of the Morton Arboretum, a sprawling 1,700-acre nature park open throughout the year. Lisle is also home to the Garden Walk, Jurica-Suchy Nature Museum, and PrairieWalk Pond, making it an ideal place to live for nature lovers. The median home value in Lisle is $334,400. 

Glen Ellyn

Photo courtesy of Village of Glen Ellyn - Government

Explore Neighborhoods in Glen Ellyn, IL

The community of Glen Ellyn is home to 37,894 people, and it’s about 25 miles west of the city of Chicago. Downtown Glen Ellyn provides an array of activities, and it has the Glen Ellyn Metra Union Pacific/West Line, which goes to Ogilvie Transportation Center in the West Loop. The Illinois Prairie Path and the Great Western Trail pass through town, and both are common places to find residents biking or walking during the summer months. The median value of a home here is $410,800.

Wheaton

Photo courtesy of Wheaton College

Explore Neighborhoods in Wheaton, IL

Just about 30 miles away from Chicago, Wheaton is home to 53,568 people. The median home value in the community is $342,000, and the area was ranked No. 27 on Money Magazine’s list of the Best Place to Live in 2017. The community is home to Wheaton College, the Westside Improv Studio, and Cantigny Park. Cantigny is a local favorite with hiking trails, a museum, geocaching, playgrounds, birdwatching spots, and much more. Also, Money Magazine projected the community would see 3.9 percent job growth.

Willowbrook

Photo courtesy of Ruth Lake Country Club

Explore Neighborhoods in Willowbrook, IL

Willowbrook has a small population of just 8,603 people, and it’s just 22 miles away from Chicago. The community is close to Interstate 55 but also within close proximity to interstates 290, 294, and 355. The median home value here is $215,300, making it one of the most affordable places to live in DuPage. Residents of Willowbrook are close to the Ruth Lake Country Club.