Community Guide
Experience classic architectural charm, nationally recognized high schools, and one of the most vibrant, walkable downtowns in Chicagoland.
Downers Grove at a Glance
Population
Approx. 50,000
County
DuPage County
School Districts
Downers Grove Grade School District 58 & Community High School District 99
Metra Commute
About 25-35 minutes by express train
Driving to Chicago
About 35-55 minutes via I-88 / I-355 / I-55
Median Home Price
$475,000-$650,000+, with historic downtown custom homes reaching $900,000–$1.5M+
Is Downers Grove Right for You?
Downers Grove appeals to buyers who want strong schools, an active downtown, multiple commuter rail options, and established neighborhoods with distinctive architecture and mature landscaping.
Chicago commuters seeking quick BNSF access from multiple stations.
Buyers who value a lively, walkable downtown with restaurants, shops, and events.
Families considering District 58 and Community High School District 99.
Homebuyers drawn to historic architecture, mature trees, and established neighborhoods.
Residents who want convenient access to parks, nature preserves, and recreation.
Those looking for a central DuPage County location near I-88 and I-355.
The Downers Grove Lifestyle
Downers Grove combines a vibrant downtown, well-regarded schools, and excellent transportation access with established residential neighborhoods and abundant outdoor recreation.
Downtown Downers Grove is consistently ranked among the best downtown districts in Illinois. Centered on Main Street, it features boutique shopping, acclaimed local eateries, craft breweries, and the historic 1928 Tivoli Theatre.
Summer Friday Night Car Shows, Rotary GroveFest, and weekend farmers markets make downtown a true community gathering hub.
Academic excellence is a cornerstone of the community. Elementary and middle school students attend District 58, feeding into Community High School District 99, which includes Downers Grove North and Downers Grove South.
Both high schools feature top-ranking academic metrics, competitive athletics, and award-winning fine arts programs.
Downers Grove boasts unmatched commuter access with three separate BNSF Metra stations: Fairview, Main Street, and Belmont.
For outdoor recreation, residents enjoy Lyman Woods Nature Center, Belmont Prairie, and McCollum Park's comprehensive sports complexes.
Jake's Insider Tip
"The Main Street express Metra train gets you to Chicago Union Station in under 30 minutes, making it one of the quickest commutes in DuPage County. For dinner, check out Pierce Tavern downtown or grab a local brew at Alter Brewing Company."
Explore the Area
Downers Grove offers a wide variety of neighborhood styles, from historic streets near downtown to wooded northern pockets and amenity-rich subdivisions farther south.
The Vibe: Tree-lined historic streets, Queen Anne Victorians, classic Craftsman homes, and luxury custom rebuilds.
The Draw: Ultimate walkability to Main Street dining, boutique shops, and the express Metra station.
The Vibe: Quiet, established neighborhood with expansive wooded lots and rolling topography.
The Draw: Highly desirable school pathways feeding into Pierce Downer Elementary, Herrick Middle, and Downers Grove North High.
The Vibe: Suburban sanctuary with clubhouse living, neighborhood swimming pools, and open green space.
The Draw: Spacious multi-level and traditional two-story floor plans with close proximity to McCollum Park and I-355.
Available Properties
From historic in-town homes to quiet cul-de-sac subdivisions, get trusted guidance from a local expert who knows the Downers Grove market inside and out.
Browse current listings or contact Jake for personalized recommendations based on your budget, preferred schools, commute, and neighborhood priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Downers Grove features three BNSF stations: Fairview Avenue, Main Street, the downtown hub with the highest express frequency, and Belmont Road.
Generally, homes located north of 55th/63rd Street are zoned for Downers Grove North High School, while southern neighborhoods attend Downers Grove South High School.
It is one of the premier commuter towns in the Chicago area due to 25-35 minute express train options and swift access to both I-88 and I-355.
