Evanston, ILBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Evanston exudes charm, blending historic beauty and a progressive spirit. Home to several universities, a stunning lakefront and a busy downtown, the city mixes intellect and diversity seamlessly, all while maintaining affordability.
Evanston, IL, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Evanston, IL, is the perfect suburb for people who think they don’t like suburbs. With classic architecture, arts venues, a fantastic food scene and loads of outdoor recreation, it offers the best of city life within a relaxed suburban community. With Northwestern University — one of the top colleges in the U.S. — at its core, Evanston draws an intellectual crowd. And yet, with so many fun amenities, this city of almost 77,000 offers something for everyone. So it’s no wonder that Evanston is becoming known as one of the top places to live in the U.S.
Sitting just 13 miles north of the Windy City, Evanston is a large suburb where the cost of living is more affordable than in Chicago, but it’s still easy to commute to one of the country’s most bustling cities. Residents also have access to several metro and bus connections, making commuting very convenient. Evanston’s location also offers a unique position along the coast of Lake Michigan, which means when the warm weather hits, this city has five gorgeous beaches to enjoy. While the university’s traditional brick-and-stone architecture and surrounding areas are stunning, so are the 76 parks that offer accessible outdoor recreation.
Although taking the metro into Chicago for dinner is convenient, foodies don’t need to leave Evanston to find a great meal. In fact, in 2019, Thrillist named Evanston one of the country’s “Best Suburbs for People Who Love Food.” Food options range from casual joints like The Evanston Chicken Shack to chic restaurants like The Barn Steakhouse. Interestingly, Evanston was a dry town until 1972. Now, it’s filled with hip bars, including the popular Temperance Beer Co., whose name is a cheeky nod to the town’s previous anti-alcohol status.
Arts and culture are easily accessible in this college town. Besides offerings on the Northwestern campus, there are fantastic music venues all over Evanston, like Space, an intimate music hall featuring various genres.
Evanston, IL Quality of Life LivScore
Evanston, IL Top Categories
Amenities
Economy
Transportation
Evanston ranks highest for amenities, economy and transportation.
Weather and Outdoor Recreation in Evanston, IL
Summers are warm but not unbearably hot. Winter temperatures usually dip below 42°F, and January is the coldest month. The average highs and lows are 81°F and 63°F (summer) and 34°F and 19°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Evanston is 36 inches. January is the month that typically gets the most snowfall.
The average annual rainfall in Evanston is 36 inches, with May and June being the wettest months.
Evanston is filled with beautiful beaches, parks and trails, but few areas beat the city’s lakefront paths for running or biking. With views of the Chicago Skyline and Lake Michigan, the paths are a stunning escape from the city. The Northwestern University Sailing Center also offers classes open to the public in sailing, windsurfing and paddle boarding.
Evanston Weather
196 days
Average Annual Sun
36 inches
Average Annual Rain
36 inches
Average Annual Snow
What Locals Love in Evanston, IL
Spend an evening stargazing through the historic telescope at Northwestern University’s Dearborn Observatory. The university hosts free Friday night tours for the public.
Adventurous kids will love Circus Summer Camp through The Actor’s Gymnasium. They can stretch their creativity through juggling, aerial skills, stilts and more!
Running each May to November, the Downtown Evanston Farmer’s Market hosts more than 60 local vendors each Saturday morning. Local farmers and artisans sell fruits and veggies, arts and crafts, and baked goods.
Enjoy classic happy-hour fare with half-price apps and draft beers at the ever-popular The Peckish Pig. Or consider the elevated cocktails at Ward Eight or Five & Dime for something a little different.
The Local and State Economy in Evanston, IL
Education, healthcare and professional and technical services are three of the largest industries in Evanston. Additionally, Rotary International’s world headquarters are here.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Evanston is 10.25%.
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax.
The NorthShore University HealthSystem operates several hospitals and clinics in the Evanston area. In addition, NorthShore is ranked among the nation’s top teaching hospitals. Evanston is also home to Ascension Saint Francis, which has a Level 1 Trauma and Heart Center.
There are several colleges and universities in Evanston, IL, but the most notable is Northwestern University.
Quick Facts About Evanston, IL
- Median Household Income
- $85,265
- Median Home Value
- $423,054
- Average State Property Tax
- $4,744
- Total Population
- 76,886
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,338
- Average Commute
- 24.95 minutes
Affordability and solid transportation, plus a notable arts and culture scene, helped Evanston nab its spot on the list of best places to live in the U.S. Read more about what makes Evanston, IL, special and check out other affordable communities near Chicago. Another moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
