Moving to Downers Grove, Illinois: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide
Considering moving to Downers Grove, Illinois? This charming DuPage County village offers downtown vitality, excellent schools, and convenient Chicago access. With approximately 50,000 residents in 2025, Downers Grove combines village character with top amenities and Western suburbs’ premier destination.
Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Downers Grove:
Downers Grove’s 2025 population is approximately 50,000 residents in this DuPage County village 25 miles west of Chicago. The median age is around 42 years, with affluent families, professionals, empty nesters, and retirees. The population is approximately 75% White, 11% Asian, 8% Hispanic, 4% Black or African American. Downers Grove features a vibrant downtown along Main Street, tree-lined residential neighborhoods, excellent schools, and Metra train stations providing direct Chicago access. The village attracts upper-middle class families, professionals wanting downtown character, and those seeking Western suburbs quality of life. Downers Grove appeals to educated professionals and families prioritizing schools, walkability, and community character. The village values downtown vitality, education, historic preservation, and maintaining authentic character.
Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Downers Grove:
Downers Grove offers moderate to upper-moderate costs for DuPage County. Median home values range from $380,000 to $550,000 in 2025, reflecting the village’s top schools, downtown, and location. The median household income is approximately $95,000. Rental properties average $1,600 to $2,400 monthly. Illinois’ state income tax is flat 4.95%. Property taxes are significant but provide DuPage County services. Overall cost of living reflects Downers Grove’s excellent schools and amenities. The village attracts affluent professionals and families. Housing costs reflect the area’s educational excellence and downtown character. The combination of schools, downtown walkability, and Metra access justifies pricing.
Economy and Job Market:
Downers Grove residents typically work in Chicago or throughout the Western suburbs. Major local employers include Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital, DeVry University, Dover Corporation, and businesses throughout DuPage County. Many residents commute to Chicago via Metra for professional employment. The broader Chicagoland economy offers vast opportunities. Typical commute times to Chicago via Metra are 30-45 minutes. The village’s excellent location provides access to multiple employment centers. Many residents work in professional services, healthcare, technology, and corporate sectors.
Education:
Community Consolidated School District 58, Community High School District 99, and Community Unit School District 99 serve Downers Grove students with highly-rated schools including Downers Grove North High School and Downers Grove South High School, both consistently ranking among Illinois’ best. The exceptional schools attract families specifically for educational quality. The outstanding school system is the primary reason families relocate to Downers Grove, creating education-focused community values.
Recreation and Lifestyle:
Downers Grove offers a vibrant downtown along Main Street with restaurants, shops, farmers market, Tivoli Theatre (historic venue), and walkable village atmosphere creating authentic gathering place. The village maintains extensive parks including Maple Grove Forest Preserve. Residents enjoy community events, excellent library, and family-oriented activities. The Metra stations enable easy Chicago access for entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions. The lifestyle emphasizes downtown activity, family events, walkability, and Chicago accessibility. The four-season climate enables year-round activities. The community values downtown character, top schools, historic preservation (beautiful historic homes), and walkable neighborhoods. Living in Downers Grove means prioritizing village character and schools, accepting DuPage County costs, and embracing walkable downtown atmosphere with Metra providing easy Chicago commutes and Main Street creating authentic community gathering place.
Healthcare and Services:
Downers Grove residents access comprehensive healthcare through Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, Edward-Elmhurst Health facilities, and extensive medical resources throughout DuPage County. The county’s healthcare infrastructure provides world-class medical care.
Transportation:
Downers Grove benefits from Metra BNSF Line with three stations (Main Street, Fairview Avenue, Belmont) providing direct train service to Chicago, Interstate 355 (Veterans Memorial Tollway), Interstate 88, and various arterial roads. Pace operates suburban bus routes. Downtown Downers Grove offers excellent walkability. Most residents use personal vehicles for daily needs. Typical commute times to Chicago via Metra are 30-45 minutes, by car 35-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Conclusion:
Moving to Downers Grove in 2025 offers vibrant village living with downtown charm, top schools, and Chicago convenience. The village’s combination of walkable Main Street, educational excellence, and Metra access makes it ideal for families, professionals, and those seeking Western suburbs’ premier destination where village character meets urban accessibility and downtown vitality defines exceptional DuPage County living.