A Classic Northwest Suburb With Unbeatable Convenience
Search Des Plaines Listings → Talk to a Local ExpertDes Plaines is one of those solid, dependable northwest suburbs that doesn't get enough credit. It offers excellent value, a genuine downtown, Metra access, and a location that puts you minutes from O'Hare and the entire expressway grid — all at prices that are still relatively affordable.
Des Plaines is a buyer-friendly market. The housing stock is diverse — everything from bungalows and ranches to larger newer construction — and prices tend to run lower than neighboring communities. First-time buyers can find move-in-ready homes starting in the low-to-mid $200s.
Downtown Des Plaines has a Metra station (Union Pacific Northwest Line) and a growing restaurant and retail scene. The River Trail Nature Center and the Des Plaines River Trail offer outdoor recreation, and the city's Park District runs excellent programs for families. The birthplace of McDonald's (the original franchise site) is a local landmark.
Des Plaines is served by multiple elementary districts depending on neighborhood, most commonly Elementary School District 62 (Des Plaines CCSD 62) and portions of Community Consolidated School District 59. District 62 operates 12 schools including South Elementary, North Elementary, West Elementary, Iroquois Community School, and Algonquin Middle School. These schools have strong bilingual programs and diverse student populations that reflect the community.
For high school, students attend Maine West High School (located in Des Plaines) or Maine East High School (Park Ridge), both part of Maine Township High School District 207. Maine West is the hometown school for most Des Plaines residents and offers a full slate of AP courses, strong performing arts, and competitive athletics. District 207 is well-regarded throughout Cook County.
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