Commuting to Winnetka? (Chicago, Arlington Heights, Evanston: real estate, rentals, how much)

[BHT47]

Hi All,

I'm on the short list for a job in Winnetka that will pay around $60k. Obviously living in Winnetka is impossible on that salary, so we're trying to figure out what our options are.

We have young children, so we need a safe neighborhood, and want schools that are at least average. (Kids will probably go to a private school, so they don't have to be awesome - long story.) Also, we would like to avoid "cookie cutter" houses and the vibe you get from most outer-ring suburbs.

If we can't go over $300k for a house, and want to keep the commute manageable, what are the best places to look?

Thanks in advance!

[cubssoxfan]

Are you open to a townhouse? To keep the commute under 40 minutes, I would try to stay east of 294.
Single Family Home: Morton Grove, parts of Skokie and parts of Glenview may work. Western Wilmette (W of 94) may have what you are looking for, although you may need to pay more for a home there.
Arlington Heights might work, but you're getting into a commute that becomes tedious.
If you choose your public schools well, you might be able to use the tuition spent on private school and invest it in a home closer to work.
Have you considered renting a home? It may be cheaper than buying. I know friends who rented in Northbrook. The home was older and so-so, but the neighborhood, proximity to town center, schools and parks were fantastic.

[Sarah H.]

I think the option to rent could be a good one if you're open to it. I did a quick search in Northfield and Wilmette. There's some decent looking rentals and town homes available. You may as well live really close if you can. Here's a link:

link for Northfield search

Link for Wilmette search

good luck! Congratulations on your new job.

Edit: Just checked the links and it doesn't save. Just re-enter the info and see all there is out there!

[chicagojlo]

I don't know where you're coming from but property taxes alone are going to make buying extremely difficult on that salary. You should definitely consider renting. If you really want to buy you might consider the areas of Highwood that feed into Highland Park schools.

[pvande55]

Along the UP North line is the best bet, leave the driving to them. Alternate, close to the Tri State N of Lake Cook Rd. The Edens spur takes you to Tower Rd.

[Larry Siegel]

Originally Posted by BHT47

Hi All,

I'm on the short list for a job in Winnetka that will pay around $60k....Kids will probably go to a private school

I can't make the numbers work unless your family has a second income that you're not revealing. Maybe renting in Evanston? It definitely does not have that 'cookie cutter' feel...it is probably the most beautiful suburb of Chicago and is still surprisingly affordable for renters, esp. those who do not mind a racially mixed area. It is a very quick drive to Winnetka.

[cubssoxfan]

Originally Posted by Larry Siegel

I can't make the numbers work unless your family has a second income that you're not revealing. Maybe renting in Evanston? It definitely does not have that 'cookie cutter' feel...it is probably the most beautiful suburb of Chicago and is still surprisingly affordable for renters, esp. those who do not mind a racially mixed area. It is a very quick drive to Winnetka.

Agreed. Will need to look at public schools or see if private school has scholarship or needs based monies available to offset tuition costs.

[chet everett]

Honestly $60,000 is not exactly cow patties.

Depending on how badly the OP wants to live in a good school district, how willing they are to have a modest home , and how much downpayment they can muster it might be possible to find an acceptable place in Wilmette -- I know of about half dozen older homes in Wilmette with legitimate listing potential listed under $300k -- if they have a large down payment (especially if they are selling appreciated real estate to move....) they could swing a purchase...

[cubssoxfan]

Originally Posted by chet everett

Honestly $60,000 is not exactly cow patties.

Depending on how badly the OP wants to live in a good school district, how willing they are to have a modest home , and how much downpayment they can muster it might be possible to find an acceptable place in Wilmette -- I know of about half dozen older homes in Wilmette with legitimate listing potential listed under $300k -- if they have a large down payment (especially if they are selling appreciated real estate to move....) they could swing a purchase...

Yes, but after taxes and paying for utilities, food, clothing and transportation and contributing to retirement savings, it does not leave a lot of money for extras like park district programs and buying bikes as the kids get older and all the other surprise expenses that swing more towards neccesities rather than wants. Now if a 2nd income gets added then I agree with you.