Welcome to Libertyville, Illinois: Where Charming Downtown, Lakefront Living, and Suburban Excellence Come Together

Tucked in the heart of Lake County, just 40 miles north of downtown Chicago, Libertyville is a vibrant, family-friendly village that blends historic charm, natural beauty, and modern convenience into one of the most desirable places to live on the North Shore. With a population of over 21,000, this thriving community offers residents a life of balance — where small-town warmth meets big-suburb opportunity.

Known for its award-winning schools, walkable Main Street, and scenic lakes, Libertyville isn’t just a bedroom community — it’s a destination where families grow, professionals thrive, and weekends feel like vacations.

🌳 A Legacy of Charm & Community Spirit

Founded in 1836 and named after the Liberty Party, Libertyville has preserved its historic roots while embracing thoughtful growth. At its heart is downtown Libertyville, consistently ranked as one of the best suburban Main Streets in Illinois, with:

  • Tree-lined sidewalks, gas-lit lampposts, and beautifully restored 19th-century storefronts

  • Boutique shops, cozy cafes, wine bars, and farm-to-table restaurants

  • The iconic Vernon Area Public Library — a stunning modern facility nestled within Independence Grove Forest Preserve

  • Annual events like Art on the Square, Concerts in the Park, Fall Fest, and Holiday Walk

It’s a place where neighbors wave hello, holiday lights go up early, and every season brings a reason to gather.

🌊 Green Space & Outdoor Living

Libertyville lives up to its natural surroundings with over 1,500 acres of parks, forest preserves, and waterways:

  • Independence Grove Forest Preserve — a 650-acre gem with fishing docks, boating, sledding hills, picnic areas, and seasonal farmers markets

  • Lake County Fairgrounds — home to the annual Lake County Fair, concerts, and equestrian events

  • The Deer Grove Trail and Green Bay Trail — perfect for biking, jogging, or walking to neighboring towns

  • Over 30 neighborhood parks with playgrounds, sports fields, splash pads, and fitness zones

It’s outdoor living at its finest — where you can kayak in the morning and be downtown by noon.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Top Schools & Family Life

Libertyville is known for its strong educational system and family-centered culture:

  • Served by Libertyville School District 70 (elementary/middle) and Libertyville High School (District 128) — both nationally recognized for academics, arts, and athletics

  • LHS consistently ranks among the top public high schools in Illinois, with strong STEM, music, and college readiness programs

The Libertyville Parks & Recreation Department runs year-round programming:

  • Youth sports leagues, swim lessons, summer camps

  • Fitness centers, indoor pools, and senior wellness classes

  • Signature events like Movies in the Park, Pumpkin Palooza, and Holiday Light Display

It’s a community built for families who value safety, tradition, and connection.

🏡 Homes with Value & Character

Libertyville offers a diverse mix of housing across quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods:

  • Restored Victorian, Craftsman, and Tudor homes near downtown

  • Spacious ranches, colonials, and two-flats in established subdivisions

  • New construction developments blending modern design with classic suburban charm

While prices reflect demand, Libertyville remains more affordable than North Shore suburbs like Lake Forest or Winnetka — especially for its level of walkability, schools, and green space.

Ideal for:
✅ Growing families
✅ Professionals commuting to Chicago, O’Hare, or Vernon Hills
✅ Empty nesters seeking charm and tranquility

This is a neighborhood where porches are used, lawns are manicured, and homes are passed down.

🚆 Connected Without the Chaos

Despite its serene feel, Libertyville is surprisingly well-connected:

  • Served by the Metra Milwaukee District/North Line at Libertyville Station — scenic 50-minute ride to downtown Chicago

  • Multiple PACE bus routes linking to Grayslake, Gurnee, and O’Hare

  • Easy access to I-94 (Tri-State Tollway) and US Route 45

You’re just:
📍 50 minutes from the Loop
📍 25 minutes from O’Hare Airport
📍 10 minutes from Vernon Hills and Mundelein

Whether you're commuting to work or exploring the region, getting around is fast and efficient.

💼 Business-Friendly & Economically Strong

Libertyville sits near major employment hubs:

  • Close to corporate offices in Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, and Deer Grove

  • Proximity to the O’Hare Employment Corridor and Lake Cook Road business district

  • Thriving local economy with retail, healthcare, and service providers along Route 176 and Midlothian Road

This economic strength supports high-quality infrastructure, public services, and long-term stability.

❤️ A Diverse, Inclusive Community

Libertyville is proudly culturally diverse, with growing Asian, Latino, African American, Eastern European, and immigrant families contributing to its inclusive atmosphere. This diversity is celebrated through multicultural festivals, inclusive park programming, and civic engagement.

Block clubs, faith-based groups, and civic associations help maintain safety, beautification, and connection — reinforcing a deep sense of belonging and pride.

 

Neigborhood Experts