Clarendon Hills vs Downers Grove
Two popular IL suburbs of Chicago, side by side. Here's how they compare on the metrics that matter most to families.
Summary: Downers Grove leads in 4 of 6 metrics. It edges out on commute to chicago, median home price, annual property tax, walk score. The best choice depends on your family's priorities.
Character & vibe
Clarendon Hills
Small, tight-knit village adjacent to Hinsdale. Hinsdale Central HS, a walkable main street on Burlington Ave, and prices that are meaningfully lower than its famous neighbor.
Downers Grove
DuPage County's most complete suburb. Downers Grove South and North HS are both excellent. Burlington Northern Metra, a great walkable downtown on Main St, and more affordable than Hinsdale/Western Springs.
Who should pick which?
Pick Clarendon Hills if you...
- ·Drawn to the community character
Pick Downers Grove if you...
- ·Want the shortest commute to Chicago
- ·Need to keep your home budget in check
- ·Value walkability and a pedestrian-friendly downtown
- ·Want lower annual property taxes
Still deciding?
Burbia scores both Clarendon Hills and Downers Grove — and every other town in the Chicago Area — based on your specific commute, budget, and priorities. Not a generic list.
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