The expensive suburbs in chicago continue to attract buyers who prioritize prestige, architectural distinction, and long-term property value. While home prices vary by neighborhood and property type, certain north and northwest suburban communities consistently rank at the top based on median home values and luxury estate sales.

From Barrington’s private acreage to Glenview and Northbrook’s executive-style neighborhoods, this ranking highlights where home values remain strongest — and why buyers continue to compete for these sought-after addresses.

What Drives High Home Values in the Suburbs?

Before ranking the most expensive suburbs in chicago, it’s important to understand what influences pricing at the top tier of the market.

High-value communities typically offer:

• Strong school districts

• Limited housing inventory

• Established neighborhood prestige

• Architectural consistency

• Larger lot sizes or estate settings

In many cases, these areas also align with what buyers expect from true luxury chicago suburbs — privacy, custom construction, and strong resale potential.

1. Barrington

Barrington consistently ranks among the most expensive suburbs in chicago due to its estate-style homes and multi-acre properties. The area is known for equestrian culture, gated communities, and custom-built residences.

High-end homes in Barrington often feature:

• Private wooded lots

• Long driveways and gated entrances

• Expansive square footage

• Resort-style outdoor amenities

Large parcels of land significantly influence overall home value, making Barrington a leader among luxury chicago suburbs.

2. North Barrington

Adjacent to Barrington, North Barrington offers similar estate living with even greater emphasis on privacy and exclusivity. The combination of limited inventory and high land value places it near the top of any list ranking expensive suburbs in chicago.

Many homes here sit on one to five acres, providing a level of seclusion rarely found closer to the city.

3. Glenview

Glenview blends luxury with convenience, making it one of the most desirable chicago luxury neighborhoods in the north suburbs. Its proximity to Chicago, strong schools, and established subdivisions drive consistently high home values.

Luxury properties in Glenview often include:

• Newer construction with modern layouts

• Custom interiors and high-end finishes

• Walkable access to parks and amenities

Although lot sizes may be smaller than in Barrington, demand and location keep Glenview firmly positioned among the expensive suburbs in chicago.

4. Northbrook

Northbrook is another standout community known for stability and executive-level housing. Well-maintained subdivisions and architectural quality help preserve value year after year.

As one of the premier luxury chicago suburbs, Northbrook features:

• Established upscale neighborhoods

• Golf course properties

• Strong commuter access

• Custom-designed homes

Consistent buyer demand keeps property values elevated in this area.

5. Long Grove

Long Grove offers scenic roads, mature trees, and custom homes on spacious lots. Its unique charm and lower-density development contribute to its ranking among the expensive suburbs in chicago.

Homes here often appeal to buyers seeking privacy without sacrificing proximity to Libertyville, Lake Zurich, and other nearby communities.

Long Grove’s blend of character and estate-style living firmly places it within respected chicago luxury neighborhoods.

6. Kildeer

Kildeer is known for newer luxury developments and custom-built properties. Large lots and architectural consistency contribute to higher median home values.

Many buyers exploring luxury chicago suburbs are drawn to Kildeer for:

• Gated subdivisions

• Modern floor plans

• Upscale finishes

• Quiet residential settings

As inventory remains limited, pricing stability continues.

7. Lake Zurich & Hawthorn Woods

Lake Zurich and Hawthorn Woods have seen growing demand for executive-style homes. Golf course communities and well-planned subdivisions push certain properties into the upper price brackets.

While not always at the very top of the list, select neighborhoods in these areas compete strongly among the expensive suburbs in chicago, particularly for newer construction.

8. Libertyville & Lincolnshire

Libertyville and Lincolnshire combine community charm with upscale housing. Libertyville’s walkable downtown and Lincolnshire’s golf course communities attract professional buyers seeking long-term value.

In these established chicago luxury neighborhoods, homes with premium upgrades and prime positioning can command substantial prices.

Why These Suburbs Maintain Value

The most expensive suburbs in chicago share several common traits:

• Limited overdevelopment

• Strong municipal planning

• Stable community reputations

• Consistent architectural standards

Buyers investing in luxury chicago suburbs often prioritize long-term appreciation and resale confidence. Communities with historic stability and desirable amenities tend to weather economic shifts more effectively.

Market Outlook

Home values in top-tier suburban communities remain steady in 2026. While the pace of appreciation has moderated compared to previous peak years, demand for well-located and well-maintained homes remains strong.

The most competitive chicago luxury neighborhoods continue to benefit from:

• Limited supply

• Executive relocation demand

• Lifestyle-driven migration trends

• Preference for suburban space

As long as inventory remains controlled and buyer demand steady, the leading expensive suburbs in chicago are likely to maintain their ranking by home value.

Final Thoughts

Ranking the expensive suburbs in chicago ultimately comes down to land value, prestige, and sustained demand. Barrington, North Barrington, Glenview, Northbrook, Long Grove, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Hawthorn Woods, Libertyville, and Lincolnshire consistently rise to the top.

For buyers seeking long-term value in established luxury chicago suburbs, understanding what drives pricing — from lot size to neighborhood reputation — is key to making a confident investment decision.