More than just securing a place to live, renting is also about choosing a community that supports long-term satisfaction. In that aspect, Lake County stands out as one of Illinois’s most desirable suburban regions, offering lakefront scenery, lively downtown districts, respected schools, and direct connections to Chicago.
From walkable neighborhoods to park-filled weekends and convenient Metra commutes, the area seamlessly blends affordability with quality of life, making it a haven for renters to stay longer.
Backed by local expertise and data-driven insight, Cruise Property Management has an established role in identifying what makes certain suburbs especially renter-friendly.
Continue reading to discover the top five Lake County suburbs where people put down roots and communities thrive.
Key Takeaways
- Lake County suburbs balance affordability and lifestyle, offering strong schools, cultural amenities, and easy commutes to Chicago.
- Vernon Hills, Deerfield, Libertyville, Highland Park, and Waukegan each provide unique advantages for renters, from upscale convenience to budget-friendly living.
- Rental prices vary widely across suburbs, with premium areas like Highland Park and Deerfield contrasting with affordable options such as Waukegan.
- Choosing the right suburb depends on the renter’s priorities, including budget, school districts, commute times, and lifestyle amenities.
Why Lake County Suburbs Are in Demand
When it comes to choosing the best Illinois neighborhoods, many renters are setting their sights on Lake County. These suburbs strike a balance between city access and suburban comfort, making them some of the best suburbs to live in Illinois.
Affordable Living near Chicago
Some Lake County communities offer lower rents than Chicago proper, giving renters the chance to enjoy more space at a lower price. While upscale towns like Deerfield and Highland Park are on par with or above Chicago’s rental costs, budget-friendly Lake County options highlight a spectrum of affordability.
And with multiple Metra lines and easy highway access, commutes into the city are simple, a top priority for today’s renters.
Quality of Life
From highly rated schools and strong business hubs to parks, trails, and lakefront recreation, Lake County supports long-term stability. Add in entertainment hotspots like Ravinia Festival, Genesee Theatre, and Six Flags, and it’s easy to see why renters are drawn here in 2025.
Top Renter-Friendly Suburbs in Lake County
Choosing the right suburb in Illinois often comes down to balancing lifestyle perks with affordability. Lake County offers a wide range of options for renters, whether you want upscale convenience, cultural amenities, or budget-friendly living.
As of this writing, the median rental prices listed below reflect current market conditions, but renters should keep in mind that these figures may change over time. Below are five standout suburbs that offer a unique mix of quality of life, location, and value.
Vernon Hills: Convenience Meets Comfort
If convenience is king, Vernon Hills wears the crown. Known as one of Illinois’s premier retail hubs, it gives residents no shortage of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, from the sprawling Hawthorn Mall to neighborhood restaurants.
Families appreciate the abundance of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces, making weekend recreation easy. Schools in the area are consistently rated among the state’s best, and with a median household income well above the national average, local job opportunities are strong.
For renters, the cost reflects these perks: Zillow places the average rent around $2,300 per month, while Zumper lists a higher median of $2,770. Despite higher rents, Vernon Hills balances suburban ease with urban amenities, which explains why so many renters stay long term.
Deerfield: Stability with a Corporate Edge
Deerfield blends small-town calm with big corporate presence. It’s home to major employers such as Walgreens Boots Alliance and Baxter, which provide local stability and high-quality jobs.
The community is known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, safety, and excellent schools, making it an appealing choice for long-term renters. Commuters benefit from Metra access, with the trip to downtown Chicago taking under an hour. This offers a strong balance of suburban peace and city convenience.
Rent figures reflect Deerfield’s premium reputation. RentCafe puts the average at $2,739, Redfin reports about $2,489, and Zumper shows a median of $2,885. For renters who value stability and are willing to pay more, Deerfield offers both comfort and professional opportunities.
Libertyville: Community Charm and Green Space
Libertyville is all about charm and community spirit. Its downtown serves as a cultural anchor with farmers' markets, seasonal street fairs, and lively local events. Dozens of parks and green spaces add to the appeal, giving most residents easy access to outdoor recreation.
Economically, Libertyville is strong, with median incomes higher than regional averages and a diverse base of local businesses that keep the area thriving. Schools also rank well, contributing to the area’s reputation as a family-friendly place to settle.
Renters see a wide variation in costs. Zumper reports a median of about $2,950, while Redfin lists a lower average of $1,812. This spread reflects a mix of property types, from luxury homes to more modest rentals. Libertyville is an excellent choice for anyone who wants both vibrancy and a close-knit atmosphere.
Highland Park: Culture and Sophistication
Nestled on the North Shore, Highland Park stands out as a cultural hub. The world-famous Ravinia Festival draws visitors throughout the summer, while the community calendar is filled with arts, music, and food events year-round.
The area enjoys favorable safety ratings, particularly in violent crime, and boasts easy access to trails, lakefront areas, boutique shops, and dining. Families are drawn to its strong schools, while professionals appreciate the train commute to Chicago, which takes about 40-50 minutes.
Renters here should be prepared for premium prices. Zillow reports $2,850, Zumper shows $2,580, and RentCafe lists $2,962. With rents around the $2,500-$3,000 range, Highland Park is ideal for those who value cultural richness and an elevated suburban lifestyle.
Waukegan: Affordable Access and Growth Potential
For renters seeking value and water access, Waukegan is one of Lake County’s most practical options. Its location on Lake Michigan provides residents with a municipal beach, marina, and proximity to Illinois Beach State Park.
Downtown Waukegan has been undergoing steady revitalization, with new restaurants, arts spaces, and entertainment venues such as the historic Genesee Theatre. For commuters, Waukegan sits roughly 35-40 miles north of Chicago. Served by Metra trains and highways, it offers a practical choice for anyone prioritizing affordability over a shorter commute.
Renters here enjoy significantly lower costs than in neighboring suburbs: Zillow lists an average rent of $1,999, Redfin shows about $1,550, and RentCafe reports $1,361. For budget-conscious renters who still want water views, cultural energy, and growth potential, Waukegan is hard to beat.
Tips for Choosing the Right Suburb
When looking for the right suburb, some renters put quick commutes at the top of their list, while others weigh schools, affordability, or lifestyle amenities more heavily. Lake County offers a range of options that cater to these different priorities, making it easier to match your needs with the right neighborhood.
From budget considerations to education quality and community feel, here are key factors to guide your choice.
Budget and Value: Match your rent target with neighborhoods that give you the most value. For instance, Waukegan offers budget-friendly options that let your dollars stretch further without sacrificing convenience.
Schools and Education: If schools are a priority, focus on districts in Deerfield, Vernon Hills, and Libertyville, all known for their strong academic reputations.
Lifestyle and Community: Your day-to-day lifestyle matters too. Walkable downtowns, lake access, parks, pet amenities, and local events can make a big difference in how long you stay.
Finding Value in Lake County
Lake County highlights some of the best Illinois neighborhoods for renters, each with unique strengths that contribute to longer tenancies. These communities stand out among the best suburbs to live in Illinois, blending accessibility, amenities, and value.
Cruise Property Management brings proven expertise in Lake County’s rental market, helping properties succeed while supporting communities that tenants want to call home. Partner with us to unlock the full potential of the best suburbs to live in Illinois through lasting tenancies, thriving neighborhoods, and maximized rental returns.
FAQs
1. Why are Lake County suburbs considered renter-friendly?
Lake County offers a balance of affordability, quality schools, cultural amenities, and easy Metra and highway access to Chicago, making it a strong choice for renters seeking both convenience and long-term satisfaction.
2. Which Lake County suburb is best for budget-conscious renters?
Waukegan stands out for its affordability, with average rents significantly lower than neighboring suburbs while still offering lakefront access, a revitalizing downtown, and cultural venues.
3. What suburb is ideal for renters seeking a cultural lifestyle?
Highland Park is known for its cultural richness, including the Ravinia Festival, arts and dining options, strong schools, and quick train access to Chicago. However, rents here are in the higher $2,500-$3,000 range.
4. What factors should renters consider when choosing the right suburb?
Key factors include budget and rental value, quality of local schools, commute times, and lifestyle amenities such as parks, walkable downtowns, and community events.
