City Guides: Living in the Chicago Suburbs

When you think of Chicago, you probably think of towering skyscrapers, professional sports teams, and maybe windy days. These are all accurate, but more and more people are thinking about the Chicago suburbs. Over the years, the areas surrounding Chicago have become a perfect destination for people wanting the perks of city living while enjoying a slower pace. There are plenty of reasons to want to move to the Chicago suburbs, and one of them are all the wonderful Greystar apartments for rent.

Where are the Suburbs?

First things first: the Chicago Metropolitan area, or Chicagoland as you’ll hear it called, is huge! Chicago is the third largest city in the country, and the surrounding area contributes to that number. While there are plenty of good places to live in the Chicago suburbs, some of our favorites include Glenview, La Grange, Naperville, Park Ridge, and Evanston, although there are plenty of other great places around the city to call home.

Suburbs are just as Diverse as Chicago

As we mentioned in our city guide for Chicago proper, the area is extremely diverse. The suburbs continue that trend. Immigrants from around the world have moved to the area, and many of them have headed for the suburbs. While downtown Chicago might have a greater concentration of diversity per square mile than the outlying areas, you will find plenty of authentic restaurants, cultural celebrations, and pockets of immigrant communities. Explore your surroundings and discover something new!

Spread Out

Chicagoland is big. While the term is not 100% agreed upon by everyone, most estimates put the Chicago suburbs as anywhere within 200 miles of the city. Because of how spread out everything is, people living in the suburbs usually rely on cars to get around. There are CTA bus and train lines, the METRA rail that extend out into the suburbs for your convenience, as well as an Amtrak Line. Depending on where you live, you may have more or less access to public transportation than other areas. Do some research beforehand, particularly after you pick a Greystar apartment outside of Chicago.

…But Not Left Out

Even though the suburbs might encompass a large area, you are always fairly close to what’s happening in downtown Chicago. Whether you need to drive, take a bus, a rail, or use a rideshare program, you can always find something to do in Chicago. On top of the events taking place in the city, many of Chicago’s suburbs also have their own busy social calendars. Always check and see what’s happening in your area of the city as well as neighboring towns, as you might discover something under the radar!

Moving to Chicagoland is an exciting adventure. Greystar is here to help you find the perfect place to live. Choose from any of our great apartments outside of Chicago and find the best community for your needs.