Moving to Barrington, Illinois: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Barrington, Illinois? This affluent Northwest suburb offers equestrian character, excellent schools, and upscale living. With approximately 10,000 residents in 2025, Barrington combines small-village atmosphere with horse farms and Chicagoland’s premier country lifestyle.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Barrington:

Barrington’s 2025 population is approximately 10,000 residents in this Cook and Lake County village 35 miles northwest of Chicago. The median age is around 48 years, with affluent families, professionals, executives, and retirees. The population is approximately 88% White, 6% Asian, 4% Hispanic. Barrington features historic downtown, equestrian estates with horse properties, upscale neighborhoods, and country club atmosphere. The village maintains rural character despite suburban location. Barrington attracts wealthy professionals, business owners, equestrian enthusiasts, and families prioritizing top schools and exclusivity. The community emphasizes preservation, equestrian heritage, property values, and small-village character.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Barrington:

Barrington represents premium pricing for Chicagoland. Median home values range from $650,000 to $1.2 million+ in 2025, with equestrian estates commanding significantly more. The median household income exceeds $150,000. Rental properties average $2,500 to $4,500+ monthly. Illinois’ state income tax is flat 4.95%. Property taxes are substantial reflecting high home values. Overall cost of living reflects Barrington’s exclusivity, schools, and equestrian character. The village attracts wealthy professionals and families willing to pay premiums for country lifestyle with excellent schools. Housing costs create significant exclusivity while maintaining village atmosphere. The combination of schools, equestrian character, and preservation justifies ultra-premium pricing.

Economy and Job Market:

Barrington residents typically work in Chicago or throughout the Northwest suburbs as executives, business owners, or professionals. Many are successful entrepreneurs, corporate executives, or professionals in high-earning fields. Some residents are retirees. The broader Chicagoland economy provides opportunities. Typical commute times to Chicago range 60-90 minutes. Many residents prioritize residential quality and schools over proximity to employment. The affluent population includes many high earners across industries.

Education:

Barrington Community Unit School District 220 serves village students with highly-rated schools including Barrington High School consistently ranking among Illinois’ best. The exceptional schools attract families specifically for educational excellence. Private schools also serve the affluent population. The outstanding school system is the primary reason families relocate to Barrington, creating intense academic focus and competitive environment.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Barrington offers charming historic downtown along Hough Street with boutiques, restaurants, and village atmosphere. The community maintains extensive equestrian character with horse farms, riding trails, and polo grounds. Residents enjoy country clubs including Makray Memorial Golf Club and Biltmore Country Club. Citizens Park and other facilities provide recreation. The area’s forest preserves and open spaces preserve rural character. The lifestyle emphasizes equestrian activities, country club membership, upscale amenities, and small-village connections. The four-season climate enables year-round activities including horseback riding. The community fiercely values preservation, equestrian heritage, property aesthetics, and resisting overdevelopment. Living in Barrington means extreme costs, country lifestyle, equestrian character, and prioritizing village atmosphere over urban convenience. The area offers Chicagoland’s premier horse country with affluence and education defining the exclusive community.

Healthcare and Services:

Barrington residents access comprehensive healthcare through Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington, Northwestern Medicine facilities, and extensive medical resources throughout the Northwest suburbs. The affluent population ensures access to quality healthcare providers.

Transportation:

Barrington is accessed via U.S. Route 14, Lake-Cook Road, and various corridors. Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line has a Barrington station providing train service to Chicago. Most residents use personal vehicles. The village layout makes walkability limited outside downtown. Typical commute times to Chicago via Metra are 60-75 minutes, by car 60-100 minutes depending on traffic.

Conclusion:

Moving to Barrington in 2025 offers exclusive country living with equestrian character, top schools, and village atmosphere. The community’s combination of horse farms, educational excellence, and upscale character makes it ideal for wealthy professionals, equestrian enthusiasts, and affluent families seeking Chicagoland’s premier country lifestyle where horses meet high-achieving schools and village preservation defines the Northwest suburbs’ most exclusive destination.