Moving To Glen Ellyn, IL: What To Know

Jason Rosko • March 28, 2024

Moving to Glen Ellyn, IL, or just curious about what this charming place has to offer? Well, you've come to the right place. Glen Ellyn, Illinois, known as the "Village of Volunteers," is a vibrant suburban area located in DuPage County. This place is well-known for its excellent schools, friendly neighborhoods, and convenient location near Chicago, making it perfect for people of all ages. So if you're moving to Glen Ellyn, IL, here's what you need to know before you make it your new home:


Fun Activities After Moving To Glen Ellyn, IL

It is said that Glen Ellyn has something for everyone. So whether you love adventures, peace, art, or food, you can have a great time here. Here are a few fun activities you can do in Glen Ellyn:


Cultural Exploration:

If you’re a cultural person, you can visit the DuPage Art Leagure to enjoy the local art scene. You can also explore the rotating exhibits at Cleve Carney Museum of Art. There are many historical landmarks such as Glen Ellyn Historical Society if you feel like stepping back in time and knowing more about the area's heritage. 

For people who prefer musical performances and live theater, the McAninch Arts Center showcases a wide range of talents throughout the year. Most people like to start their journey by delving into Glen Ellyn’s past at the famous Stacy's Tavern Museum. There are also many exhibits, and educational programs if you like fascinating artifacts or want to know more about the town’s heritage.


Natural Retreats:

If you love nature, you can explore the serene pathways of Danada Forest Preserve or travel through the beautiful trails of Morton Arboretum. The Danada Equestrian Center is also a great place as it allows you to enjoy beautiful landscapes on horseback. 

Apart from this, you can go to the Dupage River or Lake Glen Ellyn for a refreshing kayaking experience. If you wanna spend time with your family, you can plan a peaceful picnic by the shores of Lake Elly Park. The Brookified ZOO is another great place for family-friendly fun. Here are some other options:

Culinary Delights:

The Glen Ellyn Farmers Market is the perfect spot if you like to try flavourful treats from local vendors. The dining scene is also diverse here. From fancy restaurants to cozy cafes, you can taste gourmet cuisine and international flavors. Besides, if you like to cook yourself, you can find many local culinary experts to learn a wide range of cuisines and techniques. Here are some good options:

  • Fire + Wine – Classy dinner-only restaurant popular for its extensive wine list and interiors. 
  • Common Good Cocktail House – Low-key cocktail house that serves perfect burritos and picnic packs. 
  • Alfie’s Inn – The go-to place to get the best burgers, ribs & corned beef. 


What Is It Like Living In Glen Ellyn, IL?

Living in Glen Ellyn, IL, feels like being part of a close-knit community where neighbors greet each other on tree-lined streets and take pride in their village's history and charm. In other words, you can say it's like having the best of both worlds – the cozy vibes of a small town and the convenience of suburban living. 

Apart from that, the collaborative nature of the community makes it even more welcoming. If you’re wondering what is Glen Ellyn, IL known for, let's deep dive into why this place is a top choice for people seeking a place to settle in the Chicago metropolitan area.


Recreational Opportunities

Glen Ellyn is famous for its amazing recreational opportunities. With over 300 acres of green space, this village boasts an amazing park system. The Glen Ellyn Park District is also known for offering aquatic programs & swim lessons at its indoor and outdoor pools during the summer months. 

The Village Links of Glen Ellyn is another highlight if you are a golf enthusiast. It features a driving range, and various practice areas, making it perfect for a private golfing experience. 

Some popular spots in Glen Ellyn include Newton Park, Illinois Prairie Path, and the Churchill Woods Forest Reserve. 


Safety and Crime Rate

The number of violent crimes is 66% lower as compared to the national average, which makes this village safer than 82% of the cities in the US. Over the years, Glen Ellyn has successfully maintained stable crime rate trends, reflecting the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts in crime prevention. There are also many community policing and neighborhood watch programs in Glen Ellyn, which is why it has low crime rates and a strong sense of safety and security among residents. 


Excellent Schools

Glen Ellyn has also received great appreciation for its exceptional schools, which makes it an ideal option for families. Whether you choose District 41 or District 87, you can easily find excellent educational facilities, professional educators, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. You will also get access to the Glen Ellyn Public Library if you ever need a place to study. Besides this, you have options for higher education as Glen Ellyn hosts the prestigious College of DuPage. 

It wouldn’t be wrong to say this place is perfect for having a great time with your friends and family but are there any pros and cons of living in Glen Ellyn, IL? As you know, every place has its advantages and disadvantages and you will learn more later in the article but let’s first see what makes Glen Ellyn a good place to settle in. 


Is Glen Ellyn A Good Place To Live?

There is no doubt that this place is worth visiting but is Glen Ellyn a good place to live? Well, there are many things one should consider before moving to a new place. So let’s take a look at them. 


Transportation and Commute

Easy transportation and commute are important in choosing a place to settle. Glen Ellyn has a solid infrastructure with well-maintained roads, which makes getting around the village a breeze. 

It is located near major highways, including the Veterans Memorial Tollway (Interstate 355) and Tri-State Tollway (Interstate 294). You also get a direct route to Chicago and its western suburbs as the Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway (Interstate 88) is also easily accessible. 

The Glen Ellyn Metra station & Pace Suburban Bus Service operates several routes in and around Glen Ellyn, making it easier to travel when you don’t wanna use your private vehicle. 


Cost of Living

While the cost of living in Glen Ellyn may be slightly higher than in surrounding areas, the quality of life makes it a worthwhile investment. As per Redfin & Rentcafe, the current Glen Ellyn medium home value and rent are $427,000 and $1416 respectively. However, there are ways to manage expenses without compromising on fun activities. So even if you are a budget-conscious person, you can still make this village your home. 

If you talk about the average living cost in Glen Ellyn, it’s between $2100 and $2300 as per LivingCost’s reports. Here are some other everyday living expenses:

  • A dozen eggs – $2.89
  • Bread (1.1lb) – $3.22
  • Gas (0.26 gal) – $0.98
  • Taxi ride (5mi) – $13.4
  • Doctor’s visit – $86.7


Healthcare and Utilities

Healthcare is everyone’s main priority while choosing a place to settle in and Glen Ellyn won’t disappoint you in that regard. The residents get access to top-class healthcare services, so you can be sure your well-being will always be prioritized. The Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital is located near the Downers Grove area and it offers all the necessary medical facilities, including specialty care, emergency care, and surgery diagnostics. 

All the basic utilities such as electricity, water, and internet are readily available. The Village of Glen Ellyn provides sewer and water services. And natural gas & electricity services are provided by Nicor Gas and Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), respectively. In short, you can rest easy knowing that your utility and healthcare needs are well-covered if you move to Glen Ellyn. 

Life is great here but there are pros and cons of living in Glen Ellyn, IL. The best thing about this place is its community warmth and scenic environment but the living and housing costs are higher than the average. So do your research and make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle preferences. If you are planning to make it your new home, it’s best to hire professional movers in Glen Ellyn to get a fast and safe moving experience. 

A Detailed Exploration of Educational Prospects in Glen Ellyn, IL

By Jason Rosko • May 15, 2025
Glen Ellyn, IL, boasts a rich and varied educational landscape, offering a spectrum of educational opportunities that reflect its commitment to fostering academic growth and development among students. Established many decades ago, the educational system in Glen Ellyn, Illinois has evolved to meet the changing demands of the economy and society. The evolution of schools here is a testament to the community's commitment to maintaining a robust and adaptive educational framework. General characteristics of Glen Ellyn's educational institutions include a strong emphasis on both academic achievement and the developmental needs of students. Schools prioritize a diverse set of programs that cater to different learning styles, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. Whether through innovative teaching methods or the integration of new technologies, schools in Glen Ellyn consistently aim to offer an enriching learning experience. Key Highlights of Glen Ellyn's Educational Infrastructure: Diversity of Institutions: Glen Ellyn is home to public, private, and alternative educational institutions, each offering unique programs tailored to student needs. Community Involvement: Schools often involve community members in various educational initiatives, enhancing student learning through real-world experiences. Resource Availability: Libraries and community centers work alongside schools to provide additional educational resources, promoting lifelong learning. Public Schools in Glen Ellyn: Insights and Information Glen Ellyn's public school system is known for its strong academic reputation and commitment to creating well-rounded students. With several districts serving the region, the public schools here are filled with dedicated educators and a well-structured curriculum aimed at meeting high academic standards. Overview of Public School Districts: Glen Ellyn School District 41: This district is characterized by its focus on personalized learning experiences. Schools in this district emphasize the development of critical thinking and creativity among students. Community Consolidated School District 89: Known for its inclusive educational programs, this district serves a diverse community and seeks to accommodate a broad spectrum of student abilities and needs. Glenbard Township High School District 87: Serving high school students, this district boasts strong college preparatory programs and an array of extracurricular activities. Leading Public Schools and Their Performance Metrics Public schools in Glen Ellyn have consistently performed well, both in state and national assessments. Key performance metrics include standardized test scores, college acceptance rates, and student engagement levels. Here are a few noteworthy schools in terms of performance: Glenbard West High School: Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and extracurricular diversity, Glenbard West provides numerous Advanced Placement courses and has high college acceptance rates. Hadley Junior High School: With an emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, Hadley prepares its students for high school with a strong foundation in critical problem-solving skills. Extracurricular Opportunities and Programs Schools in Glen Ellyn strive to offer a comprehensive educational experience, which includes a variety of extracurricular programs such as athletics, arts, and clubs. These programs play a crucial role in developing students' social skills and providing a platform for exploring interests outside the traditional classroom setting. Key Extracurricular Offerings: Sports Programs: Including soccer, basketball, and track, among others. Arts and Music: Band, choir, drama clubs, and visual arts classes. Academic Clubs: Debate, science olympiad, and math leagues that provide intellectual challenges beyond the standard curriculum. Private and Alternative Schooling Options Glen Ellyn is not only home to a robust public school system but also a variety of private and alternative schools that cater to different educational philosophies and needs. These schools offer families the opportunity to select educational environments that align more closely with their personal values or specialized requirements. Private Schools in Glen Ellyn: A Closer Look Private schools in Glen Ellyn often offer specialized programs and a more individualized approach to education. Many of these institutions focus on religious education or international curricula. Key Private Educational Institutions Include: St. Petronille Catholic School: Known for integrating faith-based teaching with academic excellence, this school emphasizes moral values alongside its educational programs. Montessori Academy of Glen Ellyn: Offers a child-centered educational approach that encourages independent learning and respects a child's natural psychological development stages. Immaculate Conception School: Provides a balanced curriculum that integrates academics with spiritual growth, focusing on creating a strong community ethos. Charter Schools and Alternative Education Programs Charter schools provide another educational avenue within Glen Ellyn, often focusing on specific educational strategies or subjects. These schools operate with greater autonomy than traditional public schools, allowing for innovative teaching practices. Notable Charter and Alternative Programs: Glen Ellyn Academy: Focuses on non-traditional learning environments that emphasize project-based and experiential learning. Virtual Learning Options: Several institutions offer comprehensive online programs, providing flexibility for students who might benefit from a home-based learning structure. Academic Performance and Standards Glen Ellyn schools are committed to maintaining high academic standards, reflected in their students' achievements in various assessments. The standardized testing statistics serve as a benchmark for evaluating educational effectiveness, school quality, and student preparedness for future academic endeavors. Key Academic Performance Indicators: Standardized Test Scores: Schools in Glen Ellyn consistently perform above the state average in key assessments such as the SAT and ACT. Graduation Rates: With rates well above the national average, a majority of students in Glen Ellyn complete their high school education successfully. College Readiness Metrics: A high percentage of graduates from Glen Ellyn pursue higher education, equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. Special Education Resources and Support Systems are robust, ensuring that students with diverse needs receive the tailored support they require. Schools have dedicated staff and resources to support special education programs, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility.

Exploring the Enchanting Neighborhoods of Glen Ellyn, IL

By Jason Rosko • May 15, 2025
Glen Ellyn, IL, is a peaceful suburban haven that beckons those who crave a blend of historical allure and modern conveniences. Nestled in the heart of DuPage County, Glen Ellyn, Illinois is charming with its picturesque settings characterized by tree-lined streets and beautiful parks. The village has long been a desirable location for families due to its quality schools, robust community life, and proximity to Chicago—only about 23 miles away. Glen Ellyn's Historical Significance and Cultural Landscape Glen Ellyn's roots stretch back to the early 19th century when it began as a small settlement. The village grew around Stacy's Tavern, a way-station for travelers, which still stands today as a historical museum. The community embraced its natural resources, resulting in the establishment of Lake Ellyn, a man-made lake that anchors many cultural and recreational activities. The architecture within Glen Ellyn ranges from Victorian homes to contemporary developments, reflecting its rich history and adaptability to changing times. Glen Ellyn has managed to preserve its historical fabric while integrating modern amenities seamlessly. This gives residents an enriched quality of life, whether they stroll through the historic downtown or enjoy the various public events held throughout the year. The cultural landscape is vibrant, with local events such as the Glen Ellyn Festival of the Arts and the Taste of Glen Ellyn reflecting a strong community spirit. The presence of local theaters, art galleries, and music festivals ensures that residents have ample opportunities to immerse themselves in a rich cultural environment. For those considering a move, Glen Ellyn offers not only a residential haven but a community deeply connected to its history and culture.
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