Why Hinsdale Stands Alone in DuPage County
Hinsdale, IL, consistently ranks among the most desirable communities in DuPage County. But for buyers moving from the city or out of state, the suburbs can blur together. Is Hinsdale different from Oak Brook? How does it compare to Naperville?
While many suburbs offer quiet streets, Hinsdale stands out for its unique combination: Historic Charm + Walkable Downtown + Express Train. It is the only town that offers a true "Village" lifestyle without sacrificing the luxury estate feel.
The DuPage Value Matrix
Compare Hinsdale to its top alternatives. Find your fit.
| The Town | The Vibe | The Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Hinsdale (The Gold Standard) |
"Historic Village." Walkable downtown, authentic train station, tight-knit community events. |
The Commute. ~22 mins to Union Station. The best balance of city access and suburban luxury. |
| Oak Brook (The Neighbor) |
"Low Tax & Large Lots." Home to Oakbrook Center Mall. No downtown, heavily car-dependent. |
The Taxes. Significantly lower property taxes, but you lose the "walk-to-coffee" lifestyle. |
| Clarendon Hills (The Little Sister) |
"Quiet & Cozy." Shares the high school (Hinsdale Central) but with a smaller, quieter footprint. |
The Value. Often slightly more affordable entry point for the same school district. |
| Naperville (The Mega Suburb) |
"Mini-City." Massive amenities and Riverwalk, but sprawling and further west. |
The Distance. Adds 20-30 mins to the commute. Great if you work locally, harder if you work in the Loop. |
A Convenient and Commutable Location
One of Hinsdale’s strongest advantages is its location. Situated about 20 miles west of downtown Chicago, the village provides direct access to the city via the Metra BNSF Railway Line. The train station in the heart of Hinsdale allows commuters to reach Union Station in under 30 minutes during peak hours, making it an ideal spot for those working in the city but seeking a suburban home life. Unlike Oak Brook (no train) or Naperville (longer ride), Hinsdale hits the commuter sweet spot.
Education That Sets a High Standard
Hinsdale is served by some of the top-ranked public schools in Illinois. Hinsdale Central High School is regularly recognized for its academic achievement, graduation rates, and college preparedness. This strong educational system is a key reason why property values remain so stable—demand for District 86 is constant, regardless of market cycles.
A Well-Planned and Attractive Community
Hinsdale offers a mix of historic homes, modern new builds, and updated single-family houses. The village’s well-maintained parks, tree-lined streets, and cohesive architectural character contribute to its curb appeal. Unlike suburbs that allow sprawling subdivisions, Hinsdale’s development is managed with intention, ensuring the "Village" atmosphere remains intact.
A Strong Sense of Community
Another distinguishing factor is Hinsdale’s strong community engagement. Local events such as the Farmers Market, Uniquely Thursdays, and the Christmas Walk aren't just events; they are traditions. Many residents cite this friendly, involved atmosphere as the major reason they chose Hinsdale over a more spread-out suburb like Oak Brook.
Strong Real Estate Value
The Hinsdale real estate market is known for its stability. While home prices are higher than in some nearby suburbs, they reflect the area's desirability and strong fundamentals (Schools + Commute + Downtown). Whether looking for a starter home or an estate property, investing in Hinsdale is investing in a blue-chip asset.
Work with the Local Experts
Casselyn Tertell founded The Casselyn Group to provide data-driven guidance to buyers in the western suburbs. She can help you weigh the pros and cons of Hinsdale vs. Oak Brook to find the perfect fit for your family.
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