If you're looking for a suburb with a quaint charm that makes you feel like you stepped into a lovely vintage painting but with the cultural relevance of a major metropolis, look no further than Elmhurst IL. While Elmhurst is an absolutely fantastic city for families with small children, it's a great location for every type of resident from any walk of life. The downtown area offers plenty of boutiques, restaurants, and a great nightlife and the cultural attractions, such as the numerous museums, give this small city a great view of the world at large. Located only 16 miles west of Downtown Chicago in Cook and DuPage Counties, Elmhurst residents benefit from a wonderful retreat from the negative aspects of city life, without giving up the culture and convenience of urban appeal.
The population of Elmhurst is 45,556, with males making up 49.5% and females 50.5%. The median age of the residents here is 40.5 years of age, which is slightly older than the Illinois average of 37.2 years. The residents of Elmhurst overall have a higher level of education than the state on average with 58.1% earning a Bachelor's Degree or higher and 22% earning a Graduate or Professional Degree. The unemployment rate in this city is well below average at only 2.8%. As one might expect with a population as educated as those in this city, the median income rate is also much higher than average at $93,975.00 per year.
Elmhurst is less diverse than other areas of the Chicago land area, with a large percentage of the population identifying as Caucasian (84.4%). The rest of the population is broken up between Hispanic, Asian, Black, and those identifying as two races or more. There are a number of colleges and universities near or in Elmhurst, including Elmhurst College, College of DuPage, Dominican University, and Concordia University. The percentage of family households in Elmhurst is 71.9%, compared to the state's percentage of 65.8%.
Elmhurst and the word, "culture" should be synonymous. This suburb to the west of the city has a very "north side" feel, with a great deference to the arts, history, and culture. The streets are quaint and well taken care of and the downtown area is known for it's beautiful environment and walk-ability. Elmhurst is exceptionally family friendly. In fact, it was named as "One of the Ten Best Places for Families" by Family Circle Magazine in 2014. That list was on a national scale, so it's a pretty impressive accolade. Some of the things the magazine mentioned may be the very things that draw you to the city of Elmhurst - their downtown, perfect for a day walking and exploring, their York Theater movies for $1 in the summer, the outstanding Elmhurst Library and their numerous charitable organizations.
Elmhurst is also home to and near a number of colleges and universities and the college town feel is ever present here. There are coffee shops and eateries where the energy of young academic conversations permeate the air. There are a number of fantastic museums in the city, including the Theatre Historical Society of America, the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, and the Elmhurst Art Museum. There are a number of great venues in the downtown area for entertainment and nightlife, including Fitz Spare Key, a privately owned establishment offering live bands and a piano bar.
The quality of life in Elmhurst is decidedly good. There are wonderful homes to be found in this area, with plenty of newer construction as well as some older homes. Elmhurst is only 16 miles from downtown Chicago, a quick drive in on the expressway or residents can use the Metra which runs right through town. The commute for those who work in the city is often shorter than 20 minutes, depending on traffic and mode of travel. It's also very convenient for those who enjoy taking part in the many activities the city has to offer throughout the year.
Elmhurst schools systems are some of the best in the state and York Community High School, which serves the area, can boast a 95.9% graduation rate. The downtown area showcases boutique shopping, many independently owned establishments as well as larger chain stores and eateries, and a great variety of shopping for any occasion and need. Wilder Park was voted Best Suburban Park by Chicago Magazine and is attached to the Elmhurst Museum Campus. There are multiple events in Elmhurst throughout the year, including the Elmhurst College Jazz Festival, Art in the Park, Block to Block Party, and the St. Patrick's Day Parade, which are well attended. Residents here enjoy a very comfortable lifestyle and a great community spirit.
By publications, you'd guess that Elmhurst is best known for its family friendly environment because it's been named to some pretty prestigious lists related to safe places to raise a family. But Elmhurst isn't only for small families, though they obviously thrive here. The downtown area is alive with music, arts, theater, and some lovely walk able pubs and restaurants for every type of lifestyle. Single residents of every age find places to enjoy and become a part of. College students especially enjoy the area, frequenting the local establishments and attending classes nearby. There are a number of groups for those who want to contribute to charities, love to work with history or the arts, or simply want to be involved in places where education and culture are well regarded.
