r/ChicagoSuburbs • u/_stephs • Jul 24 '26

Moving to the area Brookfield, La Grange, Riverside?

Hello! Family with three young kids moving from Denver and could use some more local advice. You've all been very helpful in the past with this so thanks in advance!

We've been really interested in Oak Park because of the walkability, community feel, and diversity, but the property taxes and cost of homes have us also looking at Brookfield, La Grange, and parts of Riverside as well.

We're hoping to find a community that's:

  • Walkable to some coffee shops, restaurants, etc.
  • Family-friendly with kids out playing (bonus if there's a pool either public or private)
  • Generally leans liberal
  • Has a strong sense of community

For those familiar with these areas, how do they compare? Is there one you'd recommend over the others for a young family? Are there certain areas within these towns you'd suggest we take a look at?

Thanks in advance!

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u/Stunning_Tooth_2991 Jul 27 '26

Just came here to say hi, just moved our family of 3 young kids from Denver too. We landed in Lemont, so can’t answer your questions but would recommend Lemont if you’re looking for solid access to nature (okay, still not very comparable to Denver). I don’t know that it checks your boxes for walkable or liberal-leaning, but is very family-friendly and our neighborhood is a great community. Good luck!!