Kenilworth, a picturesque village located along the northern shore of Lake Michigan in Cook County, Illinois, is one of the most affluent and desirable residential areas in the Chicago metropolitan area. Known for its top-rated schools, beautiful architecture, and vibrant community, Kenilworth offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban accessibility. This article explores the best residential neighborhoods in Kenilworth, detailing their characteristics, housing options, and average prices to guide potential residents in their search.
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Downtown Kenilworth
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Downtown Kenilworth is the vibrant heart of the village, housing a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's an ideal location for those who appreciate a walkable community with easy access to amenities.
Characteristics of the Downtown Kenilworth
* Culture: Rich in local history with a focus on community events and activities.
* Transportation: Excellent public transportation options, including Metra access to Chicago.
* Services: Grocery stores, boutiques, restaurants, and community centers.
* Environment: Bustling yet family-friendly, with a strong community spirit.
Housing Options in the Downtown Kenilworth
Single-family homes, Townhouses, Luxury condominiums
Average Home Prices in the Downtown Kenilworth
* Buying: $850,000 – $1,500,000
* Renting: $3,000 – $5,000/month
Lakefront Area
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The Lakefront Area offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and easy access to lakeside parks and recreational activities. It's perfect for those who enjoy outdoor living and a scenic backdrop.
Characteristics of the Lakefront Area
* Culture: Active outdoor lifestyle with a focus on family-friendly community events.
* Transportation: Primarily car-dependent, but close to public transport options.
* Services: Parks, beach access, and local restaurants with lake views.
* Environment: Relaxed, scenic, and family-oriented.
Housing Options in the Lakefront Area
Single-family homes, Waterfront properties
Average Home Prices in the Lakefront Area
* Buying: $1,200,000 – $2,500,000
* Renting: $4,000 – $7,000/month
East Kenilworth
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East Kenilworth features large, beautifully landscaped homes and a quiet, residential atmosphere. It's ideal for families looking for a peaceful yet upscale environment.
Characteristics of the East Kenilworth
* Culture: Strong community values with proximity to high-quality public schools.
* Transportation: Good access to major roadways and Metra stations.
* Services: Nearby educational institutions, parks, and local shops.
* Environment: Quiet, suburban, and family-friendly.
Housing Options in the East Kenilworth
Single-family homes, Estates
Average Home Prices in the East Kenilworth
* Buying: $1,100,000 – $2,000,000
* Renting: $3,500 – $6,000/month
West Kenilworth
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West Kenilworth is characterized by its charming historical homes and tree-lined streets. This area offers a blend of historic and modern living, appealing to both families and professionals.
Characteristics of the West Kenilworth
* Culture: Historic significance with active community initiatives and neighborhood gatherings.
* Transportation: Convenient access to downtown Chicago via Metra, and walkable streets.
* Services: Close to local parks, theaters, and educational facilities.
* Environment: Welcoming and community-oriented.
Housing Options in the West Kenilworth
Victorian and Colonial-style single-family homes
Average Home Prices in the West Kenilworth
* Buying: $900,000 – $1,700,000
* Renting: $2,800 – $5,500/month
Kenilworth Gardens
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Kenilworth Gardens features lovely homes with beautiful gardens and parks. It's particularly appealing to those who enjoy gardening and family activities in green spaces.
Characteristics of the Kenilworth Gardens
* Culture: Gardening and outdoor activities are emphasized within the community.
* Transportation: Accessible by bikes and walking; close to public transport.
* Services: Access to community gardens, parks, and sports facilities.
* Environment: Suburban tranquility with a focus on the outdoors.
Housing Options in the Kenilworth Gardens
Single-family homes with large yards
Average Home Prices in the Kenilworth Gardens
* Buying: $750,000 – $1,500,000
* Renting: $2,500 – $4,500/month
Old Kenilworth
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Old Kenilworth is known for its historic charm and character, featuring beautifully preserved homes from the early 20th century. It offers a unique sense of nostalgia for those who appreciate history.
Characteristics of the Old Kenilworth
* Culture: Historical architecture and preservation are highly valued.
* Transportation: Good access to public transport and major thoroughfares.
* Services: Local boutiques, classic eateries, and strong community involvement.
* Environment: Charming and culturally rich.
Housing Options in the Old Kenilworth
Historic homes, Renovated lodges
Average Home Prices in the Old Kenilworth
* Buying: $1,000,000 – $2,200,000
* Renting: $3,200 – $6,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Kenilworth:
The best residential areas in Kenilworth include Downtown Kenilworth, Lakefront Area, East Kenilworth, West Kenilworth, Kenilworth Gardens, and Old Kenilworth.
East Kenilworth and Kenilworth Gardens are particularly family-friendly, offering spacious homes and access to excellent schools and parks.
While Kenilworth is generally affluent, areas such as Kenilworth Gardens may offer slightly more affordable options compared to Lakefront or East Kenilworth.
Kenilworth boasts excellent public transport options, including Metra trains, and is also bike- and pedestrian-friendly.
Downtown Kenilworth features grocery stores, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and community centers, making it very convenient for residents.
The Lakefront Area offers parks, beaches, and outdoor recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, and jogging along the shore.
Yes, Kenilworth is known for having some of the best schools in Illinois, with both public and private options available.
You can find a home in Kenilworth through local real estate agents, online listings, or by exploring neighborhoods in person.
The average price of a home in Kenilworth ranges from $750,000 to over $2 million, depending on the neighborhood and type of property.
Yes, Kenilworth is considered one of the safest communities in the area, with a low crime rate and active neighborhood watch programs.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Kenilworth:
Kenilworth offers a diverse range of residential areas that cater to various lifestyles and preferences, from the vibrant Downtown to the tranquil Lakefront Area and the historical charm of Old Kenilworth. With its renowned schools, ample amenities, and strong sense of community, Kenilworth is an attractive choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Each neighborhood has its unique characteristics and price points, making it essential for prospective residents to assess their needs and priorities in order to find their perfect home in this picturesque village.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.