Moving to Highland Park, Illinois: 2026 Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Highland Park, Illinois? This affluent North Shore suburb combines lakefront living, cultural richness, and excellent schools just 25 miles north of downtown Chicago.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Highland Park:

Highland Park sits along the shores of Lake Michigan in Lake County, offering a population of approximately 31,000 residents who enjoy a blend of suburban tranquility and metropolitan access. The community features established neighborhoods with mature trees, scenic ravines, and a 100-foot bluff running along six miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. With a median age of 46 years and a median household income exceeding $161,000, Highland Park attracts professionals and families seeking quality of life. The city’s highly educated workforce and strong sense of community create a sophisticated atmosphere that appeals to those relocating from urban centers or seeking suburban stability.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Highland Park:

Highland Park’s housing market reflects its desirable location and amenities, with median home values around $594,000 in 2026. The cost of living significantly exceeds both state and national averages, with grocery costs running about 4% higher than the national baseline. Despite higher expenses, residents value the return on investment through top-rated schools, cultural offerings, and proximity to Chicago’s job markets. Property taxes fund exceptional public services and infrastructure, while the community’s economic stability provides long-term value for homeowners.

Economy and Job Market:

The local economy centers on professional services, healthcare, and education, with nearly 15,000 employed residents working across diverse sectors. Major employers include Endeavor Health Highland Park Hospital, Township High School District 113, and numerous professional service firms. The community benefits from its proximity to major employers in nearby Lake Forest and Chicago, including Fortune 500 companies. Many residents commute to Chicago via Metra rail or work in professional roles that allow hybrid schedules. The Ravinia Festival also contributes significantly to seasonal employment and cultural tourism.

Education:

Highland Park’s educational excellence draws families from across the region. Township High School District 113, which includes Highland Park High School and Deerfield High School, consistently ranks among Illinois’s top districts. Highland Park High School serves over 1,600 students with rigorous academics, including 67% AP participation, and ranks nationally. Elementary and middle schools within various districts serving Highland Park maintain strong performance records. Access to nearby universities includes Northwestern University in Evanston and several other institutions in the Chicago metropolitan area.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Cultural life revolves around the renowned Ravinia Festival, North America’s oldest outdoor music festival and summer home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra since 1936. The 36-acre Ravinia Park hosts over 100 concerts annually across all musical genres from classical to contemporary. Residents enjoy lakefront parks, beaches along Lake Michigan, the Chicago Botanic Garden nearby, and miles of walking and biking trails through scenic ravines. The downtown area features boutique shopping, diverse dining options, and the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts. Recreation opportunities span from water sports to golf, while the city’s location provides easy access to Chicago’s world-class cultural institutions.

Healthcare and Services:

Endeavor Health Highland Park Hospital (formerly NorthShore University HealthSystem) serves as the community’s primary medical facility, offering comprehensive services including emergency care, surgical services, the Kellogg Cancer Center, and specialized programs. Part of the larger Endeavor Health system with nine hospitals across the region, residents access extensive medical networks and specialty care. The hospital maintains teaching affiliations with the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, ensuring access to advanced medical research and treatment.

Transportation:

Highland Park is served by three Metra Union Pacific North Line stations connecting to Chicago’s downtown, with travel times of approximately 45 minutes. The commuter rail provides convenient access for daily commuters and offers free concert shuttle service to Ravinia Festival. Pace Bus routes 471 and 472, operated by the city, connect residents to neighboring communities, shopping centers, and other Metra stations. Major highways including I-94, Route 41, and I-294 provide regional connectivity. The community’s walkable downtown and bike-friendly streets encourage alternative transportation within the city.

Conclusion:

Moving to Highland Park in 2026 offers families and professionals an exceptional North Shore lifestyle combining lakefront beauty, cultural sophistication, and educational excellence with convenient Chicago access.