Buffalo Grove leads Illinois towns in national ranking of best places to live

May 19, 2026 - 21:51

A northwest suburb of Chicago has claimed the top spot among Illinois communities in a major national ranking. Buffalo Grove secured the 15th position on the U.S. News & World Report list of the 250 best places to live in the United States, making it the highest-ranked town in the Chicago metropolitan area.

The ranking evaluates cities and towns based on factors such as quality of life, job market, housing affordability, and desirability. Buffalo Grove earned high marks for its strong public schools, low crime rates, and access to outdoor recreation. The village, home to roughly 41,000 residents, offers a mix of suburban tranquility and proximity to the economic opportunities of the Chicago region.

Other Illinois communities also made the list, but none surpassed Buffalo Grove. The recognition comes as suburbs across the state continue to attract residents seeking more space and a slower pace without sacrificing access to urban amenities. Local officials expressed pride in the ranking, noting that the village has invested heavily in parks, infrastructure, and community programs in recent years.

The full list included a range of small towns and major cities from across the country, with Buffalo Grove standing out as a consistent performer in the annual survey.