For many, the ultimate real estate dream isn’t a penthouse in the sky, but a home where the backyard ends at the water’s edge. In the Chicago area, this dream takes a specific form: the legendary North Shore. While Chicago itself boasts miles of public lakefront, private ownership of the beach is rare within city limits. To find a home with a private beach or direct water access, buyers look north.
The suburbs stretching along Lake Michigan offer some of the most prestigious and beautiful real estate in the country. From historic villages with cobblestone streets to grand estates hidden behind iron gates, these communities provide a sanctuary of blue water and green trees just a train ride away from the Loop. If you are in the market for a life defined by sunrises over the water, here is a guide to the premier Chicago suburbs with lakefront homes.
Evanston, IL
Location: Directly north of Chicago, bordering the city limits.
Distance from Downtown: 12 miles (approx. 30–45 mins by car or train).
As the perfect bridge between urban energy and suburban comfort, Evanston offers a vibrant, intellectual atmosphere thanks to its most famous resident, Northwestern University. This isn’t your typical quiet suburb; it feels more like a sophisticated mini-city, complete with a bustling downtown, a diverse dining scene, and a thriving arts community. The lakefront is a dynamic and accessible hub of activity, where public parks and sandy beaches blend seamlessly with private residences.
What truly sets Evanston apart for commuters is its unparalleled transit flexibility, offering the choice between the CTA Purple Line (“the L”) and the Metra for an easy trip downtown. For prospective lakefront buyers, the ultimate prize is owning a piece of history—often a grand Victorian or Prairie-style masterpiece—that’s just a short walk from both the beach and your favorite coffee shop. While condos with beautiful lake views are available in the $400,000 to $800,000 range, true lakefront single-family homes with direct water access or Riparian rights are a rare and coveted commodity. These properties typically start around $2.5 million and can easily surpass $5 million, reflecting their unique combination of historical significance, lot size, and unparalleled location.
Wilmette, IL
Location: Just north of Evanston.
Distance from Downtown: 16 miles (approx. 35–50 mins by car or train).
Wilmette offers a famously family-friendly atmosphere just north of Evanston, distinguished by its charming cobblestone streets, nostalgic gas-lit lamps, and the architectural splendor of the Bahá’í House of Worship. The vibe here is quieter and more distinctly residential than its southern neighbor, feeling classic and established with a strong sense of community centered around its excellent schools and sprawling parks. The crown jewel of the community is undoubtedly Gillson Park, but for private buyers, the true allure lies along the prestigious Sheridan Road stretch. This area presents a beautiful blend of architectural styles, from stately Colonials to sleek modern builds, ideal for those seeking a peaceful, tree-lined existence without feeling too detached from the city. Lakefront inventory in Wilmette is exclusive, with waterfront estates generally ranging from $3 million to $6 million. However, smaller homes or those requiring renovation occasionally appear on the market in the $2.5 million range, offering a rare entry point into this coveted waterfront location.
Winnetka, IL
Location: North of Kenilworth and Wilmette.
Distance from Downtown: 19 miles (approx. 40–55 mins by car or train).
Often called the heavyweight champion of North Shore luxury, Winnetka is synonymous with old money, grand architecture, and unparalleled privacy. The village feels like a meticulously preserved movie set—quite literally, as iconic films like Home Alone were filmed on its streets. This elegant and reserved atmosphere is where you go for true acreage and architectural pedigree. Its winding roads and deep ravines create a unique topography, offering dramatic views and a country estate setting that feels far removed from a typical subdivision. This elevated suburban feel, combined with top-tier schools like New Trier High School, makes it a major draw for discerning buyers. Reflecting its prestige, Winnetka commands some of the highest real estate prices in the Midwest. Entry-level lakefront homes are practically nonexistent below $4 million, with most direct waterfront properties trading between $6 million and $12 million. For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, landmark estates can occasionally surpass a staggering $20 million.
Glencoe, IL
Location: North of Winnetka.
Distance from Downtown: 22 miles (approx. 45–60 mins by car or train).
Glencoe is a uniquely charming and scenic village that blends culture, natural beauty, and a community-focused lifestyle. Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, this artsy enclave is home to the renowned Chicago Botanic Garden and the Writers Theatre, adding a refined, cultured vibe to its already picturesque setting. What truly sets Glencoe apart, however, is its dramatic topography—rare for Illinois. Deep ravines and high bluffs carve through the landscape, offering elevated, almost ocean-like views of Lake Michigan that are hard to find elsewhere. Many of the lakefront homes are perched atop these bluffs, giving residents breathtaking, panoramic vistas. The terrain creates a sense of privacy and grandeur that is unmatched, with no two properties alike. Downtown Glencoe adds to the village’s charm with its walkable streets lined with boutiques, cozy cafes, and local dining spots, making it perfect for those who enjoy strolling to dinner or exploring their community on foot. However, this unique setting comes at a premium. Lakefront homes in Glencoe, especially those located on bluff-top properties, are highly sought after, with prices ranging from $3.5 million to $9 million. The competitive market reflects the rarity of these lots, each offering its own distinctive character and stunning views. Glencoe is more than a place to live—it’s a lifestyle that seamlessly combines culture, natural splendor, and a deep sense of place.
Highland Park, IL
Location: North of Glencoe, in Lake County.
Distance from Downtown: 25 miles (approx. 50–65 mins by car or train).
Highland Park stands out among its neighbors to the south with its larger, more diverse housing options and a character that feels both vibrant and inviting. In the summer, the community comes alive with a festive atmosphere, thanks to the renowned Ravinia Festival, the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States. This cultural gem attracts music lovers from near and far, adding a dynamic energy to the area. The downtown area is another highlight, offering a walkable, lively mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment that blend urban conveniences with suburban charm.
What truly sets Highland Park apart is its unique, relaxed, and eclectic vibe. The area is celebrated for its mid-century modern architecture, which offers a fresh and stylish alternative to the more traditional brick-and-stone mansions found in neighboring communities like Winnetka. Highland Park also provides unmatched access to the lake, with extensive public beaches that make the lakefront lifestyle available to everyone, not just those fortunate enough to live on the water. This inclusivity adds to the community’s appeal, fostering a sense of connection and shared enjoyment of the natural beauty surrounding the area.
When it comes to lakefront real estate, Highland Park offers a broader range of pricing, making it more accessible to a variety of buyers. While the area is home to stunning estates, including Michael Jordan’s famous compound (though not directly on the lake), there are also more attainable waterfront options compared to other affluent suburbs. Lakefront homes here typically start around $2.5 million and can range up to $8 million, with a few ultra-luxury properties reaching $10 million or more. Whether you’re drawn to the architectural allure, the vibrant culture, or the serene lakefront living, Highland Park balances sophistication with a welcoming community feel, making it a truly special place to call home.
Lake Forest, IL
Location: Further north, past Highland Park and Lake Bluff.
Distance from Downtown: 33 miles (approx. 60–75 mins by car or train).
Originally designed as a tranquil retreat for Chicago’s industrial tycoons, Lake Forest exudes a grand, historic, and meticulously preserved ambiance. This legacy is palpable in its massive lots, ancient trees, and an unparalleled sense of privacy that feels worlds away from the city’s bustle. The town’s unique appeal lies in its substantial acreage; if you desire land with your lakefront view, this is the place to find true estate living that is simply unavailable closer to Chicago. The community’s strong preservationist ethic is beautifully showcased in Market Square, historically significant as the first planned shopping center in the United States, which helps maintain a timeless aesthetic. While the term “value” is relative at this level, Lake Forest can offer more square footage for your dollar compared to Winnetka, a trade-off for its greater distance from downtown. Lakefront estates here generally range from $3.5 million to $12 million, with exceptional and historic properties commanding premium prices.
