Chicago Suburbs Shine on U.S. News & World Report’s "250 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2025-26"

In a recent survey by U.S. News & World Report, several Chicago suburbs have made their mark on the "250 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2025-26" list. This recognition highlights these communities as exceptional places to reside, offering a combination of good home values, robust job markets, and a high quality of life.

Understanding the Rankings

The report surveyed residents from 250 major cities, gathering insights that cover various quality-of-life metrics. The evaluative indexes included factors such as educational quality, healthcare access, housing affordability, crime rates, and cultural and recreational offerings. These comprehensive metrics provide a well-rounded view of what makes a community a great place to live.

Top Midwestern Communities

Interestingly, the Midwest performed well in this year’s rankings, with four cities breaking into the top ten. Carmel, Indiana, claimed the No. 2 spot, while Fishers, Indiana followed closely at No. 3. Rochester Hills, Michigan, is ranked at No. 9, and Troy, Michigan, comes in at No. 10. These communities stand out not just for their affordability but also for their vibrant local economies and strong community engagement.

Illinois Representation

While Midwestern cities excelled, Illinois had a more modest showing. Arlington Heights ranked 56th, making it the highest-ranking suburb from the Chicago area. This northwest Chicago suburb is not only appealing for its community-driven lifestyle but also holds significant potential for economic development, especially with the ongoing discussions about a new Chicago Bears stadium on the land the team owns in the village.

Other Notable Rankings in the Chicagoland Area

Alongside Arlington Heights, several other suburbs also made the list, demonstrating the diversity of quality living options in the region:

• Buffalo Grove secured the 63rd position, known for its family-friendly environment and good schools.
• Naperville, a frequent high performer in various quality-of-life assessments, ranked 76th this year, showcasing its vibrant downtown and strong community spirit.
• Other suburbs include Palatine at No. 80, Elgin at No. 122, and Schaumburg at No. 141, each offering unique benefits while contributing to the overall attractiveness of the region.

Beyond these, Bloomington is ranked at No. 168, Bolingbrook at No. 210, Skokie at No. 230, and Des Plaines at No. 240. These rankings reflect the rich tapestry of suburban life in Illinois, where each community offers its own unique charm and lifestyle.

A Look at Quality of Life

Quality of life remains a decisive factor for families and individuals making the choice to set roots in a particular area. Factors like educational excellence, healthcare options, and public safety contribute significantly to how residents perceive their communities. The suburbs that made the U.S. News & World Report list are well-equipped to meet these demands, providing access to quality schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational activities.

This comprehensive approach to gathering data and insights helps clarify what residents value most. As urban areas continue to evolve, understanding these dynamics becomes increasingly important for potential homebuyers and civic planners alike.

Future Trends

The ongoing development in suburbs like Arlington Heights, which is exploring the possibility of hosting a new Bears stadium, hints at transformative changes that can further enhance community appeal. Such developments could attract new residents and businesses, fostering continued growth and vibrancy in the region.

This year’s rankings by U.S. News serve as a reminder of the wealth of opportunities available in the Chicago suburbs, encouraging residents to consider their local communities not just as places to live, but as dynamic environments rich with promise and potential. The findings reflect broader trends in migration toward suburban areas, where families seek the perfect balance of urban amenities and community sense.

For the complete list of suburbs and their rankings, check out the full report available through U.S. News & World Report.