Welcome to Arlington Heights, IL: A Premier Northwest Suburb with Big-City Access

About Arlington Heights

Just 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Arlington Heights, Illinois is one of the most desirable suburbs in the region. Known for its vibrant downtown, excellent schools, and rich community life, Arlington Heights offers the perfect mix of suburban comfort and urban convenience.

With a population of over 75,000, Arlington Heights is the largest community in the northwest suburbs and continues to attract families, professionals, and business owners who value accessibility, safety, and a high standard of living. It’s a village that’s grown with purpose — retaining its hometown feel while embracing progress.

Living in Arlington Heights

Housing and Neighborhoods:
Arlington Heights features a wide variety of housing options, from classic single-family homes and brick bungalows to upscale townhouses, apartments, and custom homes in newer developments. Popular neighborhoods include Scarsdale, Ivy Hill, Greenbrier, and Terramere — each offering its own charm and proximity to parks, schools, and amenities.

The village offers excellent residential planning, with many neighborhoods near Metra stations or downtown, making walkability a major plus. Home prices are higher than the Chicago metro average but remain a solid investment due to location, school performance, and quality of life.

Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Arlington Heights is above the national average, primarily due to home values and property taxes. However, residents benefit from top-tier public services, highly rated schools, public safety, and proximity to shopping, jobs, and transportation.

Education:
Arlington Heights is served by several top-rated school districts, including:

Arlington Heights School District 25
Township High School District 214
Community Consolidated School District 59

Highly regarded schools such as John Hersey High School, Rolling Meadows High School, and Prospect High School consistently earn high academic marks. Private school options, early learning centers, and tutoring services are also abundant in the area.

Business and Economy

Arlington Heights boasts a healthy and diverse economy driven by healthcare, professional services, finance, retail, and education. The Downtown Arlington Heights business district is a major draw, with shops, restaurants, corporate offices, and luxury residences.

Key employers include:

Northwest Community Hospital (NCH)
Arlington Heights School Districts
Village of Arlington Heights
A wide array of law firms, tech companies, and medical practices

Business owners benefit from a supportive local government, easy access to major highways, and proximity to O’Hare International Airport. The Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce offers resources, networking, and marketing support for small and mid-sized businesses.

The potential development of Arlington Park, the former racetrack site, adds to the area’s long-term economic excitement and real estate opportunity.

Things to Do in Arlington Heights

Parks and Recreation:
The Arlington Heights Park District manages over 50 parks and facilities, including community centers, pools, sports fields, and playgrounds. Top destinations include:

Recreation Park – Featuring an Olympic-size pool, tennis courts, and a summer concert pavilion
Lake Arlington – A 50-acre man-made lake with boating, walking paths, and scenic picnic spots
Arlington Ridge Center (ARC) – A state-of-the-art fitness and aquatics facility

Residents enjoy access to golf courses, bike trails, dog parks, and countless sports leagues and programs for kids and adults alike.

Arts and Culture:
Arlington Heights has a flourishing arts scene that enhances the community’s energy and sophistication. Highlights include:

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre – A live performance venue for plays, comedy, concerts, and more
Arlington Heights Historical Museum – Preserving the village’s rich past through exhibits and events
Public Art Installations and summer festivals that make downtown feel vibrant and alive

Dining and Shopping:
The dining scene in Arlington Heights is diverse and expanding, with options ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining. Local favorites include:

Carlos & Carlos – Classic Italian with an upscale vibe
Tango Sur – Argentine steakhouse known for its flavors
Peggy Kinnane’s Irish Restaurant & Pub – A downtown staple for food and entertainment

Shopping options range from boutique stores and salons in downtown to national retailers in centers like Arlington Town Square and Northpoint Shopping Center.

Community and Lifestyle

Events and Festivals:
Community spirit is strong in Arlington Heights, with events year-round that bring people together. Major celebrations include:

Frontier Days Festival – An annual summer tradition with live music, food, rides, and a parade
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Market
Harmony Fest and Taste of Arlington Heights – Downtown street fests with food, drinks, and live entertainment
Farmers Market – Weekly from spring through fall, offering local produce, crafts, and live music

Public Services and Safety:
Arlington Heights operates its own police, fire, EMS, and public works departments, ensuring fast and reliable services. The village consistently ranks as one of the safest in Illinois, with community outreach programs and active neighborhood associations.

The public library, senior center, and family service organizations offer extensive support programs and engagement opportunities for all ages.

Transportation and Accessibility

Arlington Heights is one of the most commuter-friendly suburbs in the northwest corridor. Key transportation highlights include:

Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line – Two village stations offer direct access to downtown Chicago in under an hour
I-90, I-294, and Route 53 – Quick highway access to major job centers and O’Hare
Pace Bus Services and bike-friendly streets
O’Hare International Airport – Just 20 minutes away by car

Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or running a business with regional logistics, Arlington Heights is ideally located.

Why Choose Arlington Heights?

Arlington Heights, IL is the complete package: safe, attractive, and full of life. It’s a place where families grow, businesses thrive, and community pride runs deep. The village continues to evolve without losing sight of what makes it feel like home.

Why people choose Arlington Heights:

Top-rated schools and family-friendly neighborhoods
A dynamic downtown with dining, arts, and events
Excellent healthcare and economic opportunities
Strong transportation connections
Responsive government and high public safety
Well-planned parks, recreation, and public services

Whether you’re looking to settle down, grow a business, or enjoy a connected suburban lifestyle, Arlington Heights is a smart, sustainable choice in Chicagoland.