🏡 Top 10 School Districts in Chicagoland (2025) — And What That Means for Real Estate
- The Biggest News Jason Rosenberg
- Apr 15
- 4 min read
Let’s be honest: no one’s driving 45 minutes to soccer practice because they love tolls. They're doing it for one reason — great schools. 📚 In Chicagoland, the best school districts don’t just boost GPA scores — they raise home values, increase buyer demand, and sometimes even cause low-key bidding wars in neighborhoods that also happen to have killer bakeries.
If you’re buying or selling a home in 2025, school district boundaries can make or break your strategy. So whether you’re a proud parent, a savvy investor, or someone who just appreciates smart neighbors, this list is for you. Below are the Top 10 School Districts in Chicagoland this year, plus what each one means for the housing market around it.
Spoiler alert: A+ schools = $$$ in real estate equity. 🏆💸
🥇 1. Adlai E. Stevenson District 125 (Lincolnshire, IL)
Average Home Price: $623,950
Price/Sq Ft: $264
Average Market Time: ~60 days
🎓 Known as the gold standard of public education, Stevenson High is a magnet for high-achieving students—and high-intensity parents. Homes here often sit on larger lots, with beautiful suburban backdrops and easy access to shopping and parks. While the homes take a little longer to sell, they hold their value exceptionally well. If you’re selling here, highlight that school rating in bold and maybe even a neon sign.
🥈 2. Glenbrook District 225 (Glenview/Northbrook)
Average Home Price: $699,900
Price/Sq Ft: $260
Market Time: Generally fast-moving
📊 Glenbrook North and South are home to academic powerhouses, award-winning music programs, and more AP classes than most kids can emotionally handle. This district attracts educated buyers who want long-term roots. Expect move-in-ready homes to sell quickly and fixer-uppers to have solid upside potential — especially if they're priced right and staged well.
🥉 3. New Trier District 203 (Winnetka, IL)
Average Home Price: $1,249,714
Price/Sq Ft: $388
Market Time: Higher-end properties may sit longer, but the right one? Gone in a flash.
🏛️ Buying here means you're entering elite territory. Think stately brick homes, lake breezes, and neighbors who have opinions on wine pairings. Homes sell slower due to price points, but this is one of the most stable real estate markets in the Midwest. Want generational resale value? This is your spot.
4. Naperville District 203
Average Home Price: $576,367
Price/Sq Ft: $248
Market Time: 20 days
💥 Naperville continues to crush it — not just in school rankings, but in market movement. Homes sell in under 3 weeks, and competition is real. If you’re buying, come pre-approved and caffeinated. If you’re selling, even your kitchen sponge better be staged.
5. Libertyville/Vernon Hills District 128
Average Home Price: ~$500,000
Price/Sq Ft: ~$220
Market Time: Homes move steadily
✨ District 128 schools are academically stellar and tucked inside classic suburban neighborhoods with a low-key charm. You’ll see a mix of updated colonials and newer construction, and homes here tend to draw long-term residents who stay for the schools, the parks, and the Target that has two Starbucks inside.
6. Arlington Heights District 214
Average Home Price: $468,000
Price/Sq Ft: $261
Market Time: 21 days
🏡 This district is the largest high school system in Illinois — and you can tell by the variety of housing options. From charming bungalows to newer builds, District 214 is a great option for first-time buyers, move-ups, or sellers who want to list in a lively, active market.
7. Indian Prairie District 204 (Aurora/Naperville)
Average Home Price: $329,000
Price/Sq Ft: ~$200
Market Time: 25 days
💸 Budget-conscious buyers love this district. It’s the affordable alternative to District 203 with nearly the same academic reputation. The homes may be smaller or older, but the schools are top-tier, and the market is busy. Investors also target this area for rental demand from families chasing school zones.
8. Hinsdale District 86
Average Home Price: $1,213,250
Price/Sq Ft: $325
Market Time: 54 days
🌳 Hinsdale is where luxury meets academic excellence. You'll find everything from historic estates to HGTV-worthy renovations. It’s a higher-end market with educated buyers and longer decision-making timelines. If you’re selling here, expect buyers who ask for a full inspection report and the HVAC's birth certificate.
9. Barrington District 220
Average Home Price: $620,000
Price/Sq Ft: $232
Market Time: 29 days
🐎 Barrington gives you that upscale suburban escape vibe: good schools, sprawling lots, equestrian centers, and quaint downtown charm. Homes move fast — especially the ones under $700K. It’s great for those looking for room to breathe without sacrificing educational quality.
10. Wheaton District 200
Average Home Price: ~$450,000
Price/Sq Ft: ~$220
Market Time: Steady and competitive
💼 This district flies under the radar but delivers big value. Strong schools, stable prices, and that classic “small town inside a metro area” feel make Wheaton an excellent choice for both buyers and investors. Plus, the library here is famous. Seriously.
🎯 Real Estate Takeaways (AKA Why This Matters to YOU)
✔️ Homes in top-rated school districts sell faster✔️ They command higher price per square foot✔️ They’re more resilient during market dips✔️ And they’re ALWAYS in demand (hello, equity!)
Even if you don’t have kids, buying in a great school district is one of the smartest long-term plays you can make. And if you’re selling? Flaunt that school district like it’s a marble waterfall island with soft-close drawers.
🔥 Thinking of Buying or Selling in One of These Areas?
Whether you're aiming for New Trier prestige or Naperville hustle, I’ve got your back.
🏙️ I work across the entire Chicagoland area — city, suburbs, and everywhere in between.📸 I offer full-service listings with professional photography, virtual staging, smart pricing, and open house strategies that work.💰 And best of all? I offer very low commission to home sellers — so you get premium service without the premium price tag. Why overpay when you can save thousands and still get top-notch results?
📲 Let’s Talk!
📞 Call or Text: 312-882-9797🌐 Website: www.jasonrosenbergrealestate.com📍 Brokered by: Infiniti Properties📸 Instagram: @chicagoandnycrealestate
Let’s find the perfect home — or sell yours fast and smart. 🎯🏡📣
📚 Sources:
Niche 2025 Best School District Rankings
Rocket Homes Market Reports
Ready to make the honor roll of real estate deals? Let’s get started. 🥇🏠💼
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