Which Western Suburbs Are Seeing the Strongest Home Value Growth in 2026?

The Chicago housing market has undergone significant evolution over the past few years, and the western suburbs continue to stand out as standout performers in home value appreciation. As buyers expand their search beyond the city core, many communities west of Chicago’s Loop are showing consistently strong price growth, high demand, and long‑term desirability.

In this updated January 2026 report, we break down the western suburbs seeing the most notable home value increases—and why these markets remain attractive for buyers, sellers, and investors alike.

Overview: Western Suburbs Still Appreciating

The western suburbs are demonstrating remarkable resilience and long-term growth potential, driven by several factors:

• Limited inventory — homes continue to sell quickly in highly desirable areas.

• Quality of life — top-tier schools, parks, amenities, and community culture attract families and professionals alike.

• Commuter access — suburbs with strong Metra connections and proximity to the Loop maintain high demand.

These factors combine to create sustained appreciation, strong buyer demand, and long-term value retention.

Top Western Suburbs With Strongest Home Value Growth

1. Glen Ellyn — Exceptional Year‑Over‑Year Gains

Glen Ellyn has emerged as one of the most impressive performers in the western suburbs. Recent market reporting shows:

• Home prices jumped around 14% year‑over‑year, outperforming many neighboring markets.

• Residential sales also increased, signaling strong demand among buyers.

Factors fueling Glen Ellyn’s growth include its charming downtown, family‑friendly vibe, strong schools, and easy Metra access—traits that consistently attract both move‑up buyers and families.

2. Elmhurst — Classic Suburb With Steady Appreciation

Elmhurst has long been a top western suburban choice for homeowners, and it continues to deliver:

• Home values have climbed meaningfully in recent data, with average prices rising compared to last year.

• Its vibrant downtown, top‑tier schools, and excellent transportation connections keep demand high.

While percentage appreciation may vary by neighborhood within Elmhurst, overall value growth remains robust and consistent.

3. Naperville — Resilient and In‑Demand Market

Naperville’s housing market remains a cornerstone of long‑term suburban value:

• Despite rising inventory giving buyers more choice, average home prices still increased compared to last year, showing deep and lasting demand.

• Annual price growth is moderate but supported by the suburb’s national reputation for schools, amenities, and vibrant community life.

Naperville’s market illustrates that value isn’t just about percentage gains—it’s also about sustained attractiveness and broad buyer appeal.

4. Lisle — Small‑Market, Big Growth

Lisle has seen notable percentage increases in recent home values:

• Local market analyses suggest Lisle’s median home prices are up significantly year‑over‑year, reflecting strong performance in percentage terms.

• Its smaller market size makes percentage changes stand out, even if median values aren’t as high as larger suburbs.

Buyers are drawn to Lisle for its walkability, excellent schools, and commuter convenience, which have helped maintain competitive pricing and steady demand.

5. Downers Grove & Wheaton — Balanced Growth With Broad Appeal

Communities like Downers Grove and Wheaton also continue to show stable value increases and strong buyer interest:

• Downers Grove home prices have risen steadily, with growth supported by its central location, Metra access, and community infrastructure.

• Wheaton retains interest due to its classic suburban charm, quality education options, and vibrant local culture.

These towns may not always post the highest percentage gains, but they remain consistent performers with strong fundamentals.

Why These Suburbs Are Growing

Across the western suburbs, several trends underpin home value growth:

• Limited Inventory- Homes for sale often move quickly due to a tight supply, strengthening pricing power for sellers.

• Strong Quality of Life Drivers- Excellent schools, parks, downtown amenities, and community events keep these suburbs in high demand.

• Commuter Accessibility- Rail access to Chicago’s Loop continues to be an advantage for buyers who value connectivity without city prices.

• Value Beyond Price Growth- Buyers still see these communities as long‑term investments in lifestyle, safety, and resale value.

Market Snapshot – What Buyers Should Know in 2026

• Some western suburbs are experiencing moderate to strong price growth, even as broader market conditions stabilize.

• Percentage year‑over‑year increases vary, but key communities like Glen Ellyn and Lisle are among the leaders.

• Inventory improvements in places like Naperville offer buyers more choice without significantly slowing value appreciation. 

Expert Takeaways

• For buyers: The western suburbs offer the chance to enter appreciating markets with strong fundamentals.

• For sellers: Current demand and limited inventory make now an ideal time to capitalize.

• For investors: Communities like Glen Ellyn and Lisle deliver strong growth potential and rental demand.

Bottom line: The western suburbs are not just performing—they’re leading the Chicago region in value growth, lifestyle appeal, and long-term investment opportunity.

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Ranked as a top 1% team in the Chicagoland market, Cory Tanzer and the Cory Tanzer Group specialize in the Chicago, North Shore, and Western Suburbs real estate market. With deep local market expertise and a proven track record, Cory and his team help clients buy and sell with clarity, confidence, and results.