Everything You Need To Know About Northbrook

Everything you need to know about Northbrook

Nestled about 20 miles north of Chicago, Northbrook stands as a gem in the North Shore region. This community, known for its prime location, excellent schools, and diverse housing options, has much to offer residents and newcomers alike. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about Northbrook, from its geography to schools, housing, and local amenities.

Geography and Location:

Positioned strategically for easy access to downtown Chicago, the south suburbs, and even up to Wisconsin, Northbrook boasts a prime location. While some may argue that it's not directly on Lake Michigan, we confidently consider it a part of Chicago's esteemed North Shore. Its proximity to expressways and tollways facilitates quick travel, making it a desirable spot for those who want a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences.

Education in Northbrook:

One of the major draws of Northbrook is its exceptional school system. Comprising four school districts feeding into Glenbrook North High School (District 225), the educational landscape is robust. Districts 28, 27, 30, and 31 offer top-notch education through junior high schools like Northbrook Junior High, Maple Junior High, Wood Oaks Junior High, and Field School. Glenbrook North itself boasts impressive statistics, with a 95% graduation rate, 97% college acceptance rate, and average SAT and ACT scores of 1300 and 28, respectively.

Private education is also available through St. Norbert School, offering pre-K through eighth grade, providing an alternative for families seeking a Catholic education.

Housing Styles and Market Trends:

The housing market in Northbrook showcases a variety of styles, primarily split-level, ranch, and colonial homes. Dating back to the 1960s, these homes have evolved over the years, with some older structures giving way to newer constructions. The 40% floor area ratio influences the size of homes, limiting the square footage that can be built on a lot, including the garage. While the market has seen a rise in prices, especially for new constructions, Northbrook remains more affordable than its eastern neighbors directly on Lake Michigan.

Community Amenities and Activities:

Northbrook offers a range of recreational options, with Techny Parks and Prairies standing out as a hidden gem. This recreational development features walking trails, a golf course, fishing ponds, batting cages, a skate park, softball fields, and a sledding hill. The recently added Techny Parks Activity Center Park provides a modern fitness and recreational facility.

While Northbrook's downtown may not be as centralized as some residents desire, it still offers a charming atmosphere with places like Oliverii’s, House 406, Francesca's, Landmark, manatees, Kamehachi, and Little Louie’s. The iconic Save Ferris water tower, featured in Ferris Bueller's Day Off, adds a touch of pop culture to the town.

Transportation and Commute:

The Northbrook Metra train station facilitates an easy commute to Chicago, with express trains taking about 25 minutes and regular trains around 40 minutes. Despite an increase in post-COVID crowds, nonresidents may find parking options early in the day.

Conclusion:

Northbrook, with its strategic location, excellent schools, diverse housing options, and recreational amenities, offers a well-rounded suburban experience. Whether you're considering a move or just exploring the area, Northbrook stands as a community with a rich tapestry of offerings. As a lifelong resident and real estate expert, I invite you to reach out, explore, and discover all that Northbrook has to offer. Like and subscribe for more insights, and remember, if you know, you know.