Highland Park

Nestled along the western shore of Lake Michigan, Highland Park is one of the North Shore’s most beloved communities — and for good reason. Just 25 miles north of downtown Chicago, this city of roughly 30,000 residents manages to blend suburban comfort with genuine cultural energy. Whether you’re drawn by the acclaimed Ravinia Festival, the tree-lined streets of the downtown core, or the proximity to one of the world’s great cities, Highland Park tends to make a strong first impression. The question is whether it’s the right fit for your life and your budget. Here’s what you should know before making the move.

A City That Fits Multiple Lifestyles

Highland Park isn’t a one-note suburb. The city has distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality. The downtown area along Central Avenue and St. Johns Avenue offers walkable blocks filled with independent restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops. The Ravinia neighborhood, anchored by the famous outdoor music venue, feels quieter and more residential, with a strong sense of community identity. For those who want something closer to the lake, streets near Rosewood Beach and Millard Park offer stunning views and easy access to the waterfront. Families with children benefit from the highly regarded Township High School District 113, while the median age of 46 reflects a community that skews toward established professionals and empty nesters — though younger families are well represented and actively welcomed.

Cost of Living and Housing

Let’s be straightforward: Highland Park is an affluent community, and the numbers reflect that. The median household income sits at approximately $161,875, and the median home price hovers around $594,400. For that investment, you’re typically getting classic mid-century architecture, generous lot sizes, and well-maintained neighborhoods. Condominiums and townhomes near downtown offer lower entry points for buyers who want the Highland Park lifestyle without a large single-family home. Renters will find options, though inventory can be tight. Property taxes in Lake County are worth factoring carefully into your budget — they’re meaningful. That said, residents consistently report that the quality of public services, schools, and infrastructure justifies the cost.

Employment and Economy

Many Highland Park residents commute to Chicago via the Metra Union Pacific North Line, which provides reliable service into Ogilvie Transportation Center. The commute runs roughly 45 to 55 minutes, making it workable for downtown office jobs. Locally, several notable employers anchor the economy. Hospira (now part of Pfizer) has had a significant presence in the area, and the broader North Shore healthcare and professional services sectors provide substantial employment. Small businesses throughout the downtown corridor contribute meaningfully to local economic life. Remote workers have increasingly found Highland Park appealing precisely because the Metra option exists when needed but isn’t required daily.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Outdoor life is genuinely exceptional here. The Robert McClory Bike Path runs through the city, Lake Michigan beaches are easily accessible from multiple points, and the Park District of Highland Park maintains an impressive network of facilities including the Centennial Ice Arena and Rosewood Beach. The Ravinia Festival brings world-class music — from classical to pop — every summer, and locals treat lawn tickets as a seasonal ritual. The downtown dining scene punches above its weight for a city this size, with options ranging from casual neighborhood spots to more upscale dining experiences. Chicago’s cultural institutions remain easily accessible for everything the North Shore doesn’t provide.

The Bottom Line

Highland Park rewards those who can afford its entry price with a genuinely high quality of life. Strong schools, beautiful surroundings, a walkable downtown, and easy Chicago access make it one of the most well-rounded communities on the North Shore. If your household income and housing budget align with what the market demands, you’re likely to find it a place that’s hard to leave — which, given the long tenure of many residents, appears to be exactly the point.