River Forest, located in Cook County, Illinois, is a suburban village known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and high-quality public services. With a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and proximity to Chicago, River Forest is an appealing option for families and professionals alike. This article explores the best residential areas in River Forest, detailing their characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
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North River Forest
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North River Forest is an affluent neighborhood characterized by its stunning homes, many of which are historic buildings. It's known for its strong community vibe, great schools, and easy access to parks and recreational areas, making it ideal for families.
Characteristics of the North River Forest
* Culture: Rich in history with elegant homes and community events
* Transportation: Well-connected by public transport with nearby Metra stations
* Services: Proximity to schools, parks, and small local businesses
* Environment: Family-friendly and serene
Housing Options in the North River Forest
Single-family homes, Historic houses
Average Home Prices in the North River Forest
* Buying: $600,000 – $1,200,000
* Renting: $3,000 – $5,000/month
South River Forest
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South River Forest boasts a mix of charming bungalows, mid-century homes, and modern builds. This area is known for its close-knit community, parks, and cultural activities, providing a balance of suburban calm and urban amenities.
Characteristics of the South River Forest
* Culture: Active community groups and local festivals
* Transportation: Easy access to highways and Metra train services
* Services: Local shops, grocery stores, and parks
* Environment: Welcoming and vibrant
Housing Options in the South River Forest
Bungalows, Mid-century homes, Newer constructions
Average Home Prices in the South River Forest
* Buying: $500,000 – $900,000
* Renting: $2,500 – $4,000/month
River Forest Center
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The River Forest Center area represents the heart of the village, with easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural venues. This vibrant neighborhood features a mix of apartments and homes, making it ideal for young professionals and small families.
Characteristics of the River Forest Center
* Culture: Diverse dining options and nightlife
* Transportation: Convenient public transit options and bike paths
* Services: Grocery stores, cafes, and cultural centers
* Environment: Dynamic and connected
Housing Options in the River Forest Center
Condos, Apartments, Single-family homes
Average Home Prices in the River Forest Center
* Buying: $300,000 – $750,000
* Renting: $2,000 – $3,500/month
West River Forest
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West River Forest features spacious lots and a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary. Known for its laid-back ambiance, this area is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still being near the city's buzz.
Characteristics of the West River Forest
* Culture: Relaxed atmosphere with community-oriented events
* Transportation: Accessibility through local roads and public transport
* Services: Parks, recreational facilities, and local shops
* Environment: Quiet and family-oriented
Housing Options in the West River Forest
Single-family homes, Large estates
Average Home Prices in the West River Forest
* Buying: $600,000 – $1,100,000
* Renting: $2,800 – $4,500/month
Forest Park
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Adjacent to River Forest, Forest Park offers an affordable living option with easy access to River Forest's amenities. With a tapestry of parks and family-friendly environments, this area appeals to those looking for value in a suburban feel.
Characteristics of the Forest Park
* Culture: Community events and local markets
* Transportation: Accessible from Route 290 and local public transit
* Services: Schools, grocery stores, and recreational areas
* Environment: Community-focused and accessible
Housing Options in the Forest Park
Apartments, Bungalows, Single-family homes
Average Home Prices in the Forest Park
* Buying: $300,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $3,000/month
River Forest Historic District
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The River Forest Historic District is famous for its architectural heritage and beautiful tree-lined streets. This area is perfect for those enamored with history and aesthetics, providing a nostalgic suburban experience.
Characteristics of the River Forest Historic District
* Culture: Historical significance and preservation society activities
* Transportation: Well serviced by public transportation
* Services: Close to art galleries, and parks
* Environment: Charming and picturesque
Housing Options in the River Forest Historic District
Historic homes, Renovated properties, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the River Forest Historic District
* Buying: $700,000 – $1,500,000
* Renting: $3,500 – $6,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in River Forest:
The best residential areas in River Forest include North River Forest, South River Forest, River Forest Center, West River Forest, Forest Park, and the River Forest Historic District.
North River Forest and South River Forest are particularly family-friendly due to their excellent schools and community activities.
Forest Park offers more affordable housing options while still providing easy access to River Forest's amenities.
In North River Forest, the average price of homes ranges from $600,000 to $1,200,000.
Yes, River Forest has good public transportation options, including Metra train services and bus routes.
In River Forest Center, you can find a mix of condos, apartments, and single-family homes.
Yes, River Forest has various cultural activities, including local festivals, art galleries, and community events.
River Forest offers parks, recreational areas, and bike paths for outdoor activities.
Yes, areas like River Forest Center are ideal for young professionals due to access to urban amenities and public transport.
Rental prices for apartments in River Forest typically range from $1,800 to $6,000 depending on the area and amenities.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in River Forest:
River Forest is a charming suburban village that caters to a diverse range of residents, from families to young professionals. Its various neighborhoods offer unique characteristics and housing options, whether you prefer historic homes, modern constructions, or affordable living. With excellent schools, community engagement, and proximity to Chicago, choosing to live in River Forest means embracing a high quality of life. The right neighborhood for you will depend on your personal preferences regarding community, lifestyle, and budget, making River Forest a compelling choice in the suburban landscape of Illinois.
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.