The Round Lake area — including Round Lake, Round Lake Beach, and Round Lake Heights — has steadily gained attention within the chicago suburbs real estate market. Known for attainable housing options, growing infrastructure, and access to outdoor recreation, this part of Lake County appeals to buyers seeking value without leaving the north suburban corridor.

In 2026, Round Lake continues to show gradual growth, supported by affordability and increased buyer demand across Lake County.

Where Round Lake Fits in the Market

Compared to communities like Barrington or Northbrook, Round Lake operates at a different price tier. However, it still plays an important role in the overall chicago suburbs real estate market.

Buyers are drawn here for:

• More accessible home prices

• Newer subdivision development in select pockets

• Proximity to parks and lakes

• Commuter rail access

• Expanding retail and service options

As higher-priced areas experience affordability pressure, communities like Round Lake often benefit from buyers expanding their search radius.

Housing Types in the Round Lake Area

Round Lake offers a diverse housing mix, including:

• Traditional single-family homes

• Newer planned subdivisions

• Townhomes and condos

• Entry-level and move-up properties

While it is not typically considered one of the luxury chicago suburbs, select neighborhoods feature larger homes with upgraded finishes that attract buyers seeking value in square footage.

Within the broader chicago suburbs real estate market, this diversity supports steady transaction volume across multiple price points.

Pricing Trends in 2026

Pricing in the Round Lake area remains competitive compared to other parts of Lake County. Homes are generally more affordable than those in Libertyville, Lake Zurich, or Hawthorn Woods.

Key 2026 trends include:

• Continued buyer interest in move-in-ready homes

• Moderate year-over-year price growth

• Increased activity among first-time and move-up buyers

• Strong demand for homes with updated kitchens and mechanical systems

As affordability tightens in neighboring communities, Round Lake remains attractive to buyers evaluating the overall cost of living in lake county.

Cost of Living Considerations

The cost of living in lake county varies significantly by community. In Round Lake, lower median home prices can help offset Lake County’s higher property tax structure compared to national averages.

Buyers should factor in:

• Property taxes

• HOA fees in newer developments

• Utility costs

• Commuting expenses

Because housing costs represent the largest portion of the cost of living in lake county, Round Lake’s relative affordability makes it appealing for budget-conscious buyers.

Growth and Development

Round Lake and surrounding villages have seen gradual infrastructure and retail growth over the past decade. Expanded shopping centers, improved roadways, and community investment contribute to long-term potential.

As part of the larger chicago suburbs real estate market, areas with growth momentum often see steady appreciation rather than rapid spikes.

While Round Lake does not compete directly with established luxury chicago suburbs, regional demand shifts can still influence local pricing and buyer activity.

Investment Outlook

From an investment standpoint, Round Lake presents opportunity in:

• Entry-level rental properties

• Long-term appreciation plays

• Renovation-focused purchases

• First-time buyer resale potential

Because the community sits at a more attainable price tier within the chicago suburbs real estate market, the buyer pool tends to remain broad — which can support resale liquidity.

Investors evaluating the cost of living in lake county may find Round Lake offers a more balanced entry point compared to higher-priced north suburban communities.

Lifestyle and Community Appeal

Round Lake offers access to:

• Lake recreation

• Forest preserves and parks

• Community events

• Local retail and dining

While it may not provide the estate-style living found in some luxury chicago suburbs, it delivers practical suburban amenities and growing infrastructure.

For many buyers, the combination of affordability and community engagement outweighs the absence of high-end estate properties.

Who Should Consider Round Lake?

Round Lake is well-suited for buyers who:

• Want entry-level access to the chicago suburbs real estate market

• Are focused on affordability within Lake County

• Plan to stay long enough to benefit from steady appreciation

• Value proximity to outdoor recreation

It may not offer the prestige of luxury-focused communities, but it provides stability and growth potential.

Final Thoughts

Round Lake and its neighboring villages continue to play an important role in the chicago suburbs real estate market. With competitive pricing, gradual development, and broad buyer appeal, the area offers long-term opportunity for homeowners and investors alike.

For those evaluating the overall cost of living in lake county, Round Lake remains one of the more accessible options — delivering suburban convenience without the pricing associated with established luxury chicago suburbs.