These Chicago Suburbs Were Just Named Among the Best Places to Live in the U.S.

Two Chicago suburbs are once again getting national recognition, and the reasons go far beyond just location. Naperville and Evanston have both been named among the Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. for 2026, with Naperville ranking No. 4 and Evanston coming in at No. 13.

The rankings, released by Livability, evaluated cities based on economy, housing, safety, education, amenities and transportation, highlighting communities that offer a well-rounded quality of life.

Naperville’s high ranking comes as no surprise. Known for its strong sense of community, the suburb of over 150,000 residents continues to stand out for its top-rated schools, safety and family-friendly environment. It has also been recognized as one of the safest cities in the country, making it a top choice for families looking to settle long term.

The city’s lifestyle appeal is anchored by destinations like the Naperville Riverwalk, a nearly two-mile stretch along the DuPage River filled with walking paths, parks and gathering spaces. Residents also benefit from over 2,500 acres of parkland and 140 parks, along with a strong local economy driven by industries like healthcare, technology and education.

Naperville also offers convenience. With direct access to major highways and commuter rail service, residents can easily reach downtown Chicago while enjoying a quieter suburban lifestyle. Add in a vibrant downtown, diverse dining scene and highly ranked public library system, and it’s easy to see why it consistently ranks among the best places to live in the country.

Meanwhile, Evanston offers a different, but equally compelling lifestyle. Located just north of Chicago along Lake Michigan, it blends urban energy with suburban comfort, making it especially attractive to professionals and students.

Home to Northwestern University, Evanston has a strong academic and cultural presence, with access to arts venues, music, dining and community events year-round. The city also features five public beaches, 70+ parks and a scenic lakefront, giving residents a unique mix of outdoor recreation and city access.

Commuting is another major advantage. With CTA trains, Metra lines and bus routes connecting directly to Chicago, Evanston offers one of the most accessible suburban locations in the region. At the same time, it maintains its own identity with nine business districts, a thriving food scene and a strong sense of community involvement.

Both suburbs were specifically recognized for their healthcare access, transportation options and family-friendly environments, all of which continue to drive demand in today’s housing market.

For buyers exploring the best suburbs near Chicago, this ranking reinforces a clear trend. Communities that offer a balance of lifestyle, accessibility and long-term value continue to rise to the top and Naperville and Evanston remain two of the strongest examples heading into 2026.

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Ranked among the top 1% of real estate teams in the Chicagoland market, Cory Tanzer and the Cory Tanzer Group are experts in helping buyers and sellers navigate today’s market across Downtown Chicago, the North Shore, and the Western Suburbs. Recognized for their neighborhood expertise in areas such as University Village, University Commons, South Loop, and Pilsen, the team helps clients stay one step ahead by understanding where the Chicago market is headed next.