What Counties Make Up The Chicago Suburbs?

A Complete Guide To The Chicago Suburban Counties

Chicago most likely makes one think of its towering skyscrapers, downtown crowded streets, and maybe a few deep-dish pizzas. However, the metropolitan area of Chicago is so huge, encompassing areas way beyond the actual city itself. In this light, suburbs could actually be regarded as another world that contains quiet neighborhoods, pretty parks, and distinctive communities. And it's even amazing, considering these suburbs are taken across several counties.

In this blog, we will go on a fun, easy-to-understand journey through the counties comprising the Chicago suburbs. Whether you are local, a visitor, or just someone who hears and wants to learn something new, this guide will help you understand the area even better.

DuPage County

DuPage County is directly west of Cook County and is host to some beautiful parks, excellent schools, and some very fast-growing communities. Some hot spots in DuPage County include, but are not limited to, Naperville, Wheaton, and Glen Ellyn.

Special points of pride in Naperville include the downtown area and the Riverwalk, which are nice to walk around or picnic at. DuPage County is a good area in which to reside if a person likes nature and a small-town atmosphere.

Lake County

Lake County is a northern county, bordering Illinois to Wisconsin. As the name would suggest, this county is filled with lakes and is thus considered a perfect site for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Some of the better-known towns incorporated in Lake County include Waukegan, Gurnee, and Libertyville.

Lake County encompasses the North Shore, which is famous for beautiful homes and excellent schools. If you are looking for a quiet place to stay with much nature around, then Lake County is the place where you would want to be.

Will County

Will County is located southwest of Cook County. In fact, it is one of the fastest-growing counties in the state of Illinois because housing here is more affordable compared to other states and reaching Chicago is comparatively easy. It includes some of the largest towns in Will County: Joliet, Plainfield, and Bolingbrook.

Joliet is also a city that holds the Chicagoland Speedway, where one can get a view of exciting car races. Will County is highly recommended for those families seeking suburban living with lots of fun activities.

Kane County

Kane County is to the west of DuPage County and boasts historic downtowns, scenic trails, and events suitable for the whole family. Some of the most popular towns in Kane County include Aurora, Elgin, and St. Charles.

Aurora is actually the second-biggest city in Illinois and is full of things to do, ranging from visiting the Phillips Park Zoo to catching a show at the Paramount Theatre. Overall, Kane County is a great place for anyone who enjoys history and culture.

McHenry County

Lastly, there is McHenry County in the very northwest corner of the suburban section of Chicago. It is basically a lot of open spaces comprising farms, forests, etc. Also included are towns like Crystal Lake, Woodstock, and McHenry. Woodstock is primarily known as the place where Groundhog Day was filmed. McHenry County would be a good fit for people who want to get closer to nature and live life at a snail's pace.

Why Are Chicago Suburbs So Well Liked? 

After discussing counties, one would wonder why so many individuals decide to live in the Chicago suburbs. The list of causes is lengthy! 

• The suburbs are larger than the metropolis, to start. Instead of living in a little apartment, you can live in a home with a garage, a backyard, and possibly even a swimming pool. 

• There are excellent schools in the suburbs. Families move to numerous suburbs simply to provide their kids the chance to attend one of the many schools that excel in a variety of academic subjects. 

• The suburbs are simply stunning: you're sure to witness parks, lakes, trees, and anything else that comes to mind. 

• The suburbs are close enough to Chicago to allow you to enjoy its attractions, including concerts, sports, and museums.

A Closer Look At Chicago Suburban Counties

Chicago's suburbs offer a lifestyle, not just a place to live. There are six special counties to choose from, offering everything from a vibrant neighborhood to a quiet haven. Next time you are driving through the suburbs, take a minute to see the beauty and diversity these counties have to offer. Get out now and take advantage of all they have to offer!