Welcome to Northbrook, Illinois: Where North Shore Excellence, Suburban Sophistication, and Thoughtful Living Come Together

Tucked in the heart of Lake County, just 25 miles north of downtown Chicago, Northbrook is one of the most respected and well-planned communities on the North Shore. With a population of over 35,000, this thriving village blends academic excellence, natural beauty, and modern convenience into a lifestyle that’s both refined and welcoming.

Known for its top-ranked schools, expansive parks, and premier shopping, Northbrook isn’t just a suburb — it’s a destination where families thrive, professionals commute with ease, and life moves at a balanced pace.

🌳 A Legacy of Planning & Green Space

Founded in 1901 and incorporated in 1907, Northbrook was designed with intention — emphasizing wide boulevards, large lots, and abundant green space. Today, the village boasts:

  • Over 1,200 acres of parks, forest preserves, and conservation areas

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

  • Deer Grove Forest Preserve — a 300+ acre oasis with trails, fishing ponds, picnic areas, and seasonal programs

  • Strict zoning laws that preserve low density and limit commercial sprawl

This is suburban living done right — where nature feels close, and peace is protected.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Nationally Recognized Schools & Family Life

Education is central to Northbrook’s identity:

  • Served by Early Childhood Center District 27 and Glenview Elementary School District 34 (for portions), with most students attending Middleton School District 82

  • High school students attend Glenbrook North High School (District 225) — consistently ranked among the top public high schools in Illinois for academics, arts, and athletics

  • Emphasis on innovation, college readiness, and student wellness

The Park District of Northbrook runs year-round programming:

  • Youth sports leagues, swim lessons, summer camps

  • Fitness centers, indoor pools, and senior wellness classes

  • Signature events like Concerts in the Park, Fall Festival, and Holiday Tree Lighting

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

🛍️ The Streets of Woodfield: World-Class Shopping & Dining

At the heart of Northbrook is The Streets of Woodfield — a vibrant, open-air lifestyle center built on the site of the former Sears Tower campus:

  • Anchored by Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Dick’s Sporting Goods

  • Dozens of restaurants, cafes, and fast-casual spots — from farm-to-table to global cuisine

  • Cinemas, fitness studios, and seasonal events like outdoor concerts and holiday markets

Just steps away, Woodfield Mall (one of the largest in the Midwest) offers even more retail variety — making Northbrook a regional hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Yet despite its commercial strength, residential neighborhoods remain quiet, tree-lined, and family-focused.

🏡 Homes with Character & Value

Northbrook offers a diverse mix of housing across architecturally rich neighborhoods:

  • Stately Colonials, Tudors, and ranch-style homes on spacious, landscaped lots

  • Updated two-flats and courtyard buildings near downtown

  • New construction infill developments blending sustainability with classic design

While prices reflect demand, Northbrook delivers exceptional value for its level of school quality, safety, and access to transit and culture.

Ideal for:
✅ Growing families seeking top schools and stability
✅ Empty nesters drawn to charm and convenience
✅ Professionals commuting to Chicago, O’Hare, or Skokie

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

🚆 Connected Without the Chaos

Despite its serene feel, Northbrook is incredibly well-connected:

  • Served by the Metra Milwaukee District/North Line at Deer Grove Station (just across the border in Glenview)

  • Multiple PACE bus routes linking to Evanston, Glenview, and O’Hare

  • Easy access to I-94 (Tri-State Tollway) and Lake Cook Road

You’re just:
📍 35 minutes from the Loop
📍 20 minutes from O’Hare Airport
📍 10 minutes from Deer Grove and Wheeling

Many residents live car-free during the week, relying on transit, bikes, and walkable streets.

💼 Business-Friendly & Economically Strong

Northbrook sits at a strategic crossroads:

  • Home to corporate offices, tech firms, healthcare providers, and financial services

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

  • Business-friendly environment supporting local growth and investment

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

❤️ A Diverse, Inclusive Community

Northbrook is proudly culturally diverse, with growing Asian, Indian, 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.

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

 

Neigborhood Experts