The Naperville Riverwalk in Naperville, IL, is a popular spot for jogging and walking.
Journal/Todd Bennett

Naperville, ILBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Located on the outskirts of Chicago, Naperville residents have it all. Top-rated schools, pristine parks and a bustling downtown offer a high quality of life at an affordable cost, and the city also fosters a vibrant, inclusive community.

Naperville, IL, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

Naperville, IL, is often considered one of the best places to live in the U.S., and it’s not hard to see why. This charming western suburb of Chicago has all the hallmarks of a great community: Top-notch schools (seriously, they are among the best in Illinois), an excellent safety record (it was recently named the safest city in America) and one of the best libraries in the entire country. It can also boast a highly-rated hospital, which means you won’t typically need to head into the big city to receive an excellent standard of care. 

But what makes Naperville stand out from the rest of the small towns and suburbs around the country is its commitment to community and voluntarism. In fact, one of the most beloved areas of Naperville — the Riverwalk, which is about a 2-mile stretch of gorgeous trails and event spaces alongside the DuPage River — was actually developed by volunteers. Various community get-togethers and festivals, like farmers markets and concerts, keep residents connected. In addition, the city of just under 150,000 is the perfect mix of big-city attractions and small-town magic, and the cost of living is lower than the neighboring Windy City.  

Getting around is easy. Naperville residents have access to both a bus service and commuter rails. In addition, O’Hare International, Midway International, DuPage and Aurora Municipal airports are all reasonably close by if your travels take you further from home. 

Naperville, IL Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 841

Naperville, IL Top Categories

  • Health

  • Safety

  • Education

Naperville ranks highest for health, safety and education.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Naperville, IL

What is the weather like in Naperville?

Naperville experiences blustery winters — with lows that reach down to the lower teens – but you get rewarded with incredibly warm (but not too warm) summers. The average highs and lows are 82°F and 60°F (summer) and 34°F and 16°F (winter). 

Does Naperville get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Naperville is 36 inches and typically occurs between November and March. 

Does Naperville get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Naperville is around 38 inches, with July being the wettest month. 

How many sunny days does Naperville get?

Naperville averages 195 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Naperville?

Head to beloved Centennial Beach, which is a former limestone quarry turned swimming pool. The pool has been entertaining swimmers since its creation in the 1930s (thanks to a WPA project).

Naperville Weather

195 days

Average Annual Sun

38 inches

Average Annual Rain

36 inches

Average Annual Snow

Things To Do in Naperville, IL

What are some free things to do in Naperville?

Take a leisurely stroll through the Naperville historic district, which features 280 stunning houses in a variety of architectural styles like Cape Cod, four square and, of course, Victorian. 

What are some fun things to do with kids in Naperville?

Take your kids to experience the magic that is the DuPage Children’s Museum, where they can work with tools, explore toddler tunnels and create their next masterpiece. 

Where should you take a date in Naperville?

Live music, hand-cut steaks, craft cocktails — all in the adorable historic district of Naperville? Your sweetie is sure to be impressed at Sullivan’s Steakhouse

What is the best coffee shop in Naperville?

Whether you want a classic iced coffee or something more adventurous like a pistachio rose latte, Yogi’s is the place to get your caffeine fix in Naperville.

One of the many murals in downtown Naperville, IL, a charming suburb of Chicago that offers a more affordable cost of living, top-notch schools and an excellent safety record.
Todd Bennett
One of the many murals in downtown Naperville, IL, a charming suburb of Chicago that offers a more affordable cost of living, top-notch schools and an excellent safety record.

The Local and State Economy in Naperville, IL

What are the three largest industries in Naperville?

Health care, education and professional services are the dominant industries in Naperville, and Edward-Elmhurst Health, Indian Prairie School District 204 and Nokia are all major employers. 

What is the sales tax rate in Naperville?

In 2023, the sales tax rate in Naperville is 7.75%.

Does Illinois have a state income tax?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Naperville?

Naperville has several highly-rated health care providers, including Edward Hospital, a full-service hospital with a Level II trauma center, and DuPage Medical Group. 

What colleges and universities are in Naperville?

Students looking to continue their education in Naperville have access to North Central College. 

Quick Facts About Naperville, IL

Median Household Income
$129,555
Journal/Todd Bennett
Median Home Value
$438,434
Journal/Todd Bennett
Average State Property Tax
$4,744
Journal/Todd Bennett
Total Population
149,293
Journal/Todd Bennett
Median Rent/Mo.
$1,415
Journal/Todd Bennett
Average Commute
25.51 minutes
Journal/Todd Bennett

Top-notch schools, an excellent safety record and ease of getting around contribute to Naperville’s inclusion as a best place to live in the U.S. Read more about what makes Naperville special and also consider other communities near Chicago. Another moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

Newsletter Sign Up

Keep up to date with our latest rankings and articles!
Enter your email to be added to our mailing list.