If you’re considering moving to Evanston, Illinois from out of state, you’re not alone. Just 12 miles north of downtown Chicago, Evanston offers lakefront beauty, top-rated schools, strong public transportation, and a vibrant downtown — all within one of the North Shore’s most established communities.
Before diving in, you may also want to explore my full Living in Evanston Neighborhood Guide for a deeper look at specific areas of the city.
Where Is Evanston and How Close Is It to Chicago?
Evanston sits directly north of Chicago along Lake Michigan and borders the city at Rogers Park.
Distance to downtown Chicago (The Loop):
Approximately 12 miles
25–45 minutes by car depending on traffic
Public Transportation Options:
CTA Purple Line (express service during weekday rush hours)
CTA Red Line (accessible via Howard Station)
Metra Union Pacific North Line (UP-N) with service to Ogilvie Transportation Center
Multiple bus routes connecting to Chicago and surrounding suburbs
For many professionals relocating from cities like New York or Boston, Evanston offers the rare combination of suburban space with true commuter access.
Evanston Housing Market Overview (2026 Snapshot)
Evanston offers a diverse housing stock that appeals to first-time buyers, families, investors, and downsizers.
Home Types You’ll Find:
Late 19th and early 20th century Victorian and Prairie-style homes
Classic Colonials and Tudors
Brick bungalows and two-flats
Downtown high-rise and mid-rise condos
Modern townhomes and newer construction in West Evanston
Property Taxes:
Evanston is located in Cook County. Property taxes are based on assessed value and local taxing bodies (school districts, city, county, etc.). Effective tax rates are typically higher than many other states, which is an important factor for out-of-state buyers to understand when comparing total cost of ownership.
Illinois-Specific Buying Process:
5 business day attorney review period after contract acceptance
Home inspections are customary
Earnest money is typically submitted shortly after contract execution
Closings are usually 30–45 days from contract
If you’re relocating, understanding these differences early can prevent costly surprises.
Schools in Evanston
Evanston is served by two primary public school districts:
Evanston/Skokie School District 65
Serves grades K–8 across multiple neighborhood schools.
Evanston Township High School (ETHS), District 202
Serves grades 9–12 and is one of Illinois’ most recognized public high schools, offering:
250+ courses
30+ Advanced Placement (AP) courses
Extensive arts, athletics, and extracurricular programs
Private and alternative options include:
Roycemore School
Chiaravalle Montessori
Beacon Academy
St. Athanasius School
For many relocating families, ETHS in particular is a major draw.
What Makes Evanston Different From Other Chicago Suburbs?
Evanston is not a typical suburb.
It blends:
A walkable downtown
A Big Ten university (Northwestern University)
Public beaches along Lake Michigan
Strong civic engagement
Architectural diversity
A vibrant local restaurant scene
Neighborhoods like Central Street, Downtown Evanston, and the Main-Dempster Mile each offer distinct character and housing styles. You can read more about those specific areas in my full Evanston neighborhood breakdown.
Cost of Living in Evanston
Compared to Chicago:
Home prices are often higher than many city neighborhoods but lower than some lakefront North Shore communities like Winnetka or Glencoe.
Property taxes are generally higher than in many other states.
Commuting costs are manageable due to public transit access.
Many out-of-state buyers find that while purchase prices may feel comparable to East Coast suburbs, the lifestyle value — lakefront access, walkability, and school quality — makes Evanston a strong long-term investment.
Who Typically Moves to Evanston?
I regularly see relocations from:
New York City and surrounding suburbs
Boston
Washington, D.C.
California
Corporate transfers tied to Chicago headquarters
Northwestern faculty and medical professionals
Common reasons buyers choose Evanston:
Strong public high school continuity
Lakefront access without giving up train access
Larger homes and yards compared to city living
Walkable commercial districts
Why Working With a Local Expert Matters When Relocating
Relocating is not the same as moving across town.
You need:
Neighborhood insight beyond Zillow descriptions
Accurate property tax comparisons
Trusted local attorneys and lenders
Clear understanding of inspection norms
Someone who can FaceTime you through homes if needed
A strategy for competing in multiple-offer situations
That’s where I come in.
Relocating to Evanston? Let’s Make It Seamless.
I specialize in helping out-of-state buyers transition confidently to Evanston and the North Shore. From virtual showings to coordinating inspections, attorneys, and lenders, I handle every moving piece so you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Whether you’re exploring options or ready to make a move, I would love to be your resource.
📍 Thinking about moving to Evanston?
Let’s talk through your goals, timing, and budget — and build a smart strategy from day one.
Work with Sarah Jividen
North Shore Real Estate Expert
@properties Christie’s International Real Estate
Let’s connect and start planning your move.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Evanston, IL
Is Evanston a good place to live?
Evanston is widely considered one of the most desirable communities on Chicago’s North Shore. It offers lakefront access, walkable neighborhoods, strong public schools, public transportation to downtown Chicago, and a vibrant dining and arts scene.
How far is Evanston from downtown Chicago?
Evanston is approximately 12 miles north of downtown Chicago. Commute times range from 25 to 45 minutes by car, CTA Purple Line, or Metra Union Pacific North Line depending on traffic and time of day.
Are Evanston schools good?
Evanston is served by Evanston/Skokie School District 65 (K–8) and Evanston Township High School (District 202). ETHS offers over 250 courses, including more than 30 Advanced Placement (AP) classes.
Is Evanston expensive compared to Chicago?
Home prices in Evanston are generally higher than many Chicago neighborhoods but lower than some North Shore communities like Winnetka and Glencoe. Property taxes in Cook County are an important cost factor for buyers relocating from other states.
Can you commute to Chicago from Evanston without a car?
Yes. Evanston has access to the CTA Purple Line, Red Line (via Howard), and the Metra Union Pacific North Line, making it one of the most commuter-friendly suburbs near Chicago.
