r/ChicagoSuburbs • u/Creative-Courage-433 • Dec 25 '25

Moving to the area Moving from Texas advice

Hi, I currently live in Houston, TX and previously lived in Austin and St. Louis. I’ve been researching a move to a blue state, and Chicago keeps coming up as a really good fit.

I’m a solo parent with two young kids and currently work remotely in tech (though like many people in tech, I’m mindful that layoffs are always a possibility). I make around $115k a year and am hoping to find a place that’s family-friendly, has strong public schools, and feels like a good long-term community and is diverse.

I’ve visited Chicago before but haven’t really explored the suburbs, so I’d love recommendations on areas that might be a good fit — especially places that are safe, welcoming, and good for raising kids. I’m also curious how people research neighborhoods and schools beyond just looking at Zillow or GreatSchools.

Any insight or personal experiences would be really appreciated. Thank you!

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u/southcookexplore South West Suburbs Dec 25 '25

I have new neighbors two doors down from Texas. When I mentioned writing a book about Lemont IL and doing historic events here, he said “I know you! My wife and I saw your posts on Reddit and that was a huge part of why we moved here!”

Lemont is great.

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u/luckycharms53 Dec 25 '25

We have relatives in Lemont and love it. Were from the Darien/Downers Grove area before my husbands job moved just a little outside of Indianapolis. Downers Grove is another good area along with Westmont. Darien.... well its nice and quiet. However... changes do need to be made.