Moving to Chicago area (Palatine, Hoffman Estates: good schools, living in, prices)

[txnmom]

I had posted earlier about commuting to Wood Dale from Grayslake/Gurnee and that seemed unaminously to be too far. We need good schools, up to $350max, and it needs to be within a reasonable driving distance to both Wood Dale and Mettawa. Any suggestions?? My husband will start in a Wood Dale location, but will eventually be working in Mettawa and we would like to avoid moving twice if possible. Thanks in advance for any advice!

[FB1977]

Hmm I haven't heard of Mettawa before, but I looked it up on a map. If I'm looking at the right location, then, living in Grayslake or Gurnee would not be too far at all. Mundelein is super close too, according to the map. I'd say if your husband doesn't have to work for too long in Wood Dale, then maybe the commute would be worth it (seeing as to how close Mettawa is to the towns you've mentioned). I worked in Mundelein for 5 years, and I know some of the surrounding towns have great schools (Vernon Hills, Libertyville to name a couple).

[ilgirl]

Originally Posted by txnmom

I had posted earlier about commuting to Wood Dale from Grayslake/Gurnee and that seemed unaminously to be too far. We need good schools, up to $350max, and it needs to be within a reasonable driving distance to both Wood Dale and Mettawa. Any suggestions?? My husband will start in a Wood Dale location, but will eventually be working in Mettawa and we would like to avoid moving twice if possible. Thanks in advance for any advice!

You might want to try Palatine or northern Hoffman Estates. In my experience, it's easier going south (toward Wood Dale) than going north (toward Mettawa, which is very busy during rush hour). The prices are at the upper end of your range, but they are less expensive than most of the northern suburbs. Palatine has a good reputation for schools, as does District 54. Check out www.greatschools.net for more information on schools. Good luck!

[txnmom]

Thank you for the advice! We may just deal with the commute to start in order to get more house.