Welcome to Round Lake, Illinois: Where Chain O’Lakes Living, Small-Town Charm, and Suburban Value Come Together

Tucked in the far northeast corner of Illinois, just 50 miles north of downtown Chicago, Round Lake is a vibrant village that blends lakeside recreation, rural beauty, and modern convenience into a lifestyle that feels like vacation year-round — without sacrificing affordability or connectivity. With a population of over 19,000, this Lake County gem sits at the heart of the legendary Chain O’Lakes, making it a top choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and commuters seeking peace with purpose.

Known for its low crime, strong schools, and community spirit, Round Lake isn’t just a bedroom community — it’s a place where life moves a little slower, neighbors wave hello, and weekends are spent on the water.

🛶 A Legacy of Water & Recreation

Round Lake lives up to its name — centered around the beautiful Round Lake, one of 15 interconnected lakes in the Chain O’Lakes system. Spanning over 7,000 acres of waterways, this network offers endless opportunities for:

  • Boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing

  • Fishing for bass, walleye, muskie, and panfish — a favorite spot for weekend anglers

  • Waterfront dining and seasonal events like fireworks and boat parades

  • Ice fishing and snowmobiling in winter

The annual Polar Plunge, Concerts by the Lake, and Fall Fest bring thousands together in celebration — proving that life here isn’t seasonal, it’s always in motion.

This is where city dwellers come to unplug — and where residents never take the view for granted.

🏡 Affordable Homes with Space to Breathe

One of Round Lake’s biggest advantages? Value with room to grow. Compared to North Shore suburbs like Lake Forest or Libertyville, Round Lake offers some of the most attainable single-family homes in northern Illinois, featuring:

  • Ranch-style houses, split-levels, and two-flats on spacious lots

  • New construction communities like The Preserve at Fox Meadow, Sawmill Landing, and Bridlewood

  • Many properties with driveways, garages, and room for expansion — rare in much of Chicagoland

With lower property taxes than many nearby towns, it’s an ideal choice for:
✅ First-time buyers
✅ Growing families
✅ Professionals seeking peace with proximity to I-94

This is a neighborhood where homes are built to last — and lifestyles are designed to thrive.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Top Schools & Family Life

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

  • Part of Round Lake Area Schools (District 116) and Grayslake Community High School District 127, both recognized for academics, arts, and athletics

  • Emphasis on STEM, college readiness, and extracurricular excellence

The Round Lake Park District 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 Light Display

It’s a community built for families who want safety, stability, and connection.

🌳 Green Space & Outdoor Living

Residents enjoy access to beautiful parks and nature:

  • Over 800 acres of parks, forest preserves, and conservation areas

  • Proximity to Independence Grove Forest Preserve, Volo Bog State Natural Area, and Deer Grove Trail

  • The Fox River Trail and Green Bay Trail nearby 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 hear crickets at night and still be downtown by noon.

🚗 Connected Without the Chaos

Despite its lakeside feel, Round Lake is surprisingly well-connected:

  • Served by Pace Bus route #570 (Northwest Highway)

  • Easy access to I-94 (Tri-State Tollway) and US Route 12

  • Just 55 minutes from downtown Chicago and 25 minutes from Waukegan and O’Hare Airport

Many residents commute to jobs in Lake County, McHenry County, or Milwaukee, enjoying a peaceful homecoming after a busy day.

💼 Local Economy & Lakeside Lifestyle

Round Lake thrives on local enterprise and tourism:

  • Bustling commercial corridors along Main Street (Route 173) and Gilbert Road

  • Restaurants, marinas, hardware stores, and family-run shops serve daily needs

  • Popular destination for weekend visitors, especially during boating season

Its location near the Wisconsin border also gives residents easy access to additional shopping, casinos, and entertainment options.

❤️ A Diverse, Welcoming Community

Round Lake is proudly culturally diverse, with growing Latino, African American, Eastern European, Asian, 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