Buffalo Grove Ranked Best Place to Live in Illinois by U.S. News & World Report

BUFFALO GROVE—According to the newly released 2026–2027 Best Places to Live rankings from U.S. News & World Report, Buffalo Grove was named the best place to live in Illinois and ranked No. 15 overall in the United States.

The annual report evaluates communities across the country based on several key factors, including:

Quality of life
Value and affordability
Job market strength
Desirability
Overall livability

For Buffalo Grove, the ranking reflects more than just strong numbers; it highlights how the suburb has quietly become one of the most balanced communities in the Chicago region.

Why Buffalo Grove Ranked So High

The report pointed to several economic and lifestyle advantages that helped Buffalo Grove stand out nationally.

According to U.S. News:

The village has a median household income of $135,543, significantly above the national median of $83,181
Its 2.1% unemployment rate is well below the national average of 4.5%
The median home value sits around $380,110, only slightly above the national average despite the area’s strong amenities and school systems

The publication specifically noted that Buffalo Grove “offers a higher value of living compared to similarly sized cities.”

That balance, strong incomes without dramatically inflated housing costs, has become increasingly attractive as buyers continue searching for suburban communities with both stability and long-term value.

Growth and Redevelopment Are Reshaping the Village

Village leaders say the recognition also reflects years of planning and investment.

“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible people and partnerships that make Buffalo Grove such a special place,” said Eric Smith. “Buffalo Grove has always been a community that thinks boldly about the future while never losing sight of what matters most, its people.”

Officials also pointed to several major redevelopment efforts helping modernize the suburb’s commercial corridors, including:

The Clove redevelopment
Bison Crossing
Chase Plaza redevelopment

These projects are part of broader long-term initiatives, including the village’s updated Comprehensive Plan and its 2024–2028 Strategic Plan.

Together, they signal that Buffalo Grove isn’t simply relying on its reputation, it’s actively investing in future growth.

Other Chicago Suburbs Also Ranked Nationally

While Buffalo Grove claimed the top spot in Illinois, several other Chicago-area suburbs also ranked highly in the national report.

Naperville placed No. 32 nationally, followed by:

Arlington Heights at No. 46
Palatine at No. 71
Bolingbrook at No. 72
Elgin at No. 74

Within Illinois specifically, Naperville ranked second overall.

The report highlighted Naperville’s:

Median household income of $151,621
3.8% unemployment rate
Median home value of nearly $500,000

Other suburbs landing among Illinois’ top communities included Schaumburg, Des Plaines and Aurora.

More to Explore: Construction Begins on Oxxford Lofts in the West Loop

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