Pros and Cons of Moving To Arlington Heights, IL

Jason Rosko • June 25, 2024

Just 25 miles northwest of Chicago’s downtown is a lively suburb called Arlington Heights, Illinois, which combines the best of both worlds. When you are thinking about moving to Arlington Heights, you must know its positive and negative sides. Indeed, for many years now, this neighborhood has been a preferred choice for young couples with children, single professionals as well as retired individuals due to its state-of-the-art facilities, great community spirit, and closeness to Chicago. Nevertheless, it is necessary to weigh all the pros and cons of living in Arlington Heights because each place has its benefits and drawbacks.


A well regarded school system, a wide variety of dining options, and shopping centers along with numerous recreational activities are some contributing factors towards an improved living standard in Arlington Heights. The reasons given above make it appealing for people to live here. Furthermore, there is a strong sense of community within this area where various local activities help newcomers get comfortable very quickly.


However, there are cons to living in Arlington Heights as well. For instance, the high cost of living including expensive property taxes and sometimes difficult travel times into Chicago could be notable points on your list. Besides this other factors such as brutal winter time or less vibrant nightlife unlike neighboring cities may affect your judgment.



Pros of Moving to Arlington Heights, IL


Excellent Education System

One of the main attractions of Arlington Heights is its top-rated school district. The public schools there maintain high academic standards, producing numerous graduates, and offering a broad range of extracurricular programs. It is evident from state and national assessments that these schools rank highly due to strong educational pursuits. Teachers in this area are well prepared and motivated, they go the extra mile with their students so they succeed in life. Moreover, different private education facilities offer more options for parents. This makes it appealing to many families who wish to provide their children with excellent education to lay a solid foundation for their future.


Proximity to Chicago

If you live in Arlington Heights, chances are you can drive or take a train to Chicago within minutes. The Metra rail system offers exceptional services commuting during working hours becomes hassle-free within downtown Chicago. This has made it possible for people living here to enjoy the benefits of cultural, recreational, or professional activities offered by Windy City such as world-class museums, theaters, and sports events among others, and at the same time benefit from a bustling job market available therein too but return after work in the noisy city back into quiet residential suburbs. Many people find this balance between living close enough to the city while still enjoying some tranquility as being very necessary.


Diverse Dining and Shopping Options

It is generally agreed that Arlington Heights has many dining options representing different tastes and preferences. There is everything from small coffee houses or family restaurants serving homemade dishes up to upscale restaurants or popular chain stores – no one will be left without any choice here! A few blocks away from the town’s center along Campbell Street there are several shop outlets interspersed with theaters and eating places where residents can just walk around doing window shopping on weekends or spend time at cafes sipping tea which will give them an opportunity not only to taste various kinds food but also meet new friends. At the beginning of May, for instance, a farmers’ market opens near Vail Avenue where one can buy fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers as well go through stalls filled with handicraft goods and other stuff that might be needed later such as clothes and so on. 


Strong Sense of Community

There are numerous events held within Arlington Heights to foster unity among the various members of its community. The main town square hosts an annual fete parade or local concert thereby bringing everybody together. There are quite several community organizations and social clubs ranging from gardeners, and sportsmen to artists and craft makers among many others. Despite its size, it has got a big city feel which makes newcomers easily get assimilated into it by creating a sense of belongingness among them since they feel at home even away from their native homelands because even apart from being able to quickly acclimate themselves. 


Abundant Recreational Activities

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Arlington Heights offers a plethora of parks, recreational facilities, and green spaces. The Arlington Park Racetrack, for example, is a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts and hosts several major events throughout the year. The area also has numerous trails for hiking and biking, community pools, and sports leagues for both children and adults. The Arlington Heights Park District manages over 700 acres of parkland, providing playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. Additionally, Lake Arlington offers boating, fishing, and scenic walking trails, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities.



Cons of Moving to Arlington Heights, IL


High Cost of Living

The cost of living is a major challenge when you live in Arlington Heights. Housing prices can be quite high with the average home price far above the national mark. This is partly caused by the great need for good facilities and schools available in this area. Property taxes are some of the highest in the state, contributing to the financial stress. Although it has a generally good standard of living, it comes at an extra cost that may lock out certain individuals and families. Also, other daily costs such as groceries, healthcare services, and utilities tend to be higher than in other places.


Traffic and Commute Times

Despite being connected to Chicago proper, Arlington Heights may come with its share of commuting headaches especially when rush hours set in. Traffic snarl ups are common on major highways including I-90 and Route 53. Public transport systems can however be crowded or late sometimes especially during peak periods. Some people have to make regular city trips for work purposes or other considerations and this can turn into a big issue for them. Even though they have Metra rail service there we still have long travel times and delays often occur along these lines too. It is therefore important that commuters plan so as not to get caught up in bad traffic or arrive later than expected.


Harsh Winters

Winters in Arlington Heights involve prolonged periods of cold weather featuring heavy snowfall and very low temperatures at times. For anyone who does not like cold or is not used to it this will serve as a major disadvantage. Heating bills also tend to go up because winter conditions call for regular removal of snow which might take a lot of time while being expensive simultaneously. Furthermore driving becomes even tougher given icy roads plus reduced visibility from foggy windscreens among other things that worsen commutation plight altogether, besides merely stopping outdoor activities due to cold months every year.


Limited Nightlife

Despite having many restaurants and stores, Arlington Heights has limited nightlife compared to Chicago. There are several pubs or even places for entertainment but those looking for something lively would be disappointed if they lived in the suburbs. There is some evening fun through the local cinema hall and live music sometimes but residents often head into town to have a more exciting time out. This may not appeal to younger residents who like vibrant nightlife as Arlington Heights does not have a variety of such options.


Property Taxes

The high cost of living is coupled with very high property taxes in Arlington Heights. Homeowners bear the brunt of this heavy tax burden particularly because housing costs here are already quite substantial. Property taxes fund an excellent school system and public services though they can be viewed as a major financial obligation. Thus, one should consider these expenses when settling on the locale since they can change the overall affordability significantly involved in moving there. Potential homeowners need therefore to think critically about their financial position and plans before purchasing homes in Arlington Heights.


Is Moving to Arlington Heights, Il, the Right Choice?

Arlington Heights appeals to different types of individuals both in the countryside peace and metropolitan lifestyle mixed at equal measure thereby making it one of the best places for settling down. The equilibrium created by this characteristic makes it quite attractive for many individuals who intend to relocate elsewhere. With good schools being offered here any parent will want their kids educated from them. It also provides an easy access point to various cultural issues thus anyone working within the city but longing for a peaceful suburban life can settle here.


In case you consider Arlington Heights as a place to relocate yourself and your family, it is worth visiting the area, exploring different neighborhoods, or probably asking residents about how they feel. Many people fall in love with going there due to the combination of benefits it offers. Therefore, engaging the services of local movers in Arlington Heights could make the transition easier. These steps will enable you to make an informed decision so that your new home matches perfectly well with your requirements and expectations.

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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