Illinois Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Northbrook, Illinois

Population: 32,400

Located in Cook County

Northbrook, Illinois, on the cusp of full maturity, is coping with its last spurt of residential building, while keeping close tabs on an impending boom over its border. Having cut its suburban teeth as a place where young couples could come to start their families, Northbrook has grown up into a place to move after achieving some financial success. While surrounding regions are in dire economic straits, Northbrook has a three million dollar surplus and 47% of its operating budget in reserves with more construction under way and an ever-expanding retail market.

Despite the downturn of the nation¹s real estate market, there is still a wide range of housing available, including single-family homes, senior housing, condos and some rentals. Real estate developers and village officials would agree that demand and land prices are so strong here because Northbrook has the best of all worlds. Growing steadily through the last three decades, Northbrook offers residents a central location near Chicago O'Hare Airport, as well as schools and parks with national reputations. And with a tax base that is split 50-50 between residential and commercial, property tax rates are relatively low. Options in dining, shopping and recreation also abound here, all centered near reputable hospitals and business districts.

Northbrook is also known for its excellence in education with 7 of 10 schools ranking among the top 10 in Chicago Magazine. As for community-building events, Northbrook has a large volunteer base on village commissions, hosting a Memorial Day parade and services, Fourth of July events, Earth Day, art fairs, and the annual Northbrook Days Carnival.

Safety is a top priority in Northbrook with police and fire departments that are second to none. They sponsor many community programs, and are equipped with three fire houses, three full-time ambulances and state-of-the-art paramedics equipment. Its no wonder Northbrook is an ISO class 2 society with top police and fire academies.

Northbrook also prides itself on being a leader locally and nationally in environmental strategies and many villages ask city officials to speak on the environment. There are also numerous parks and forest preserves here used by community sports leagues and for hiking and bike trails. Plus, golfers can enjoy a public 36-hole golf course and a nine-hole par 3.