Imagine you’re packing your bags, ready for a fresh start in the quiet town of Barrington, IL. You’ve heard it’s a great place for families, with schools that are among the top in the state.
But before you make your move, it’s important to get to know the area a little better. Barrington isn’t just any suburb; it’s a community with its own unique vibe and set of expectations. From the peaceful neighborhoods where kids ride their bikes to the local ice cream shop, to the bustling farmers market that brings everyone together on weekends, there’s a lot to look forward to.
Yet, there are also things you might not expect, like the local traditions and the way people get around. As you sit down to plan your move, keep in mind that there are 14 key things that will help you settle in smoothly. Stick with me, and I’ll guide you through what you need to know to make Barrington your new home.
Key Takeaways
- Barrington is a peaceful town surrounded by nature, with nature preserves and lakes, offering a serene and scenic environment.
- The community in Barrington is close-knit, with strong neighborhood bonds and a sense of camaraderie. People care about each other and actively volunteer to improve the neighborhood.
- Barrington offers a diverse range of housing options to fit different budgets and preferences, from old homes with charm to big, fancy houses. There is something for everyone in terms of housing.
- Barrington provides employment opportunities in various sectors, including healthcare, education, stores, and offices. Additionally, the proximity to Chicago and other nearby areas expands job options for residents.
Barrington’s Tranquil Suburban Life
Barrington is a peaceful town that’s great for people who want a calm life away from the city. It’s surrounded by nature, and you can walk to everything you need. If you enjoy being outside, you’ll like the nature preserves full of trees and animals, and the lakes where you can fish or just sit and relax. For those who love golf, there are golf clubs to spend time in the fresh air.
The center of the town has parks for picnics and games. The shops offer a variety of items, and the restaurants have delicious meals. All these places are nearby and easy to reach. Barrington also has old, beautiful buildings from the 1800s that make the town look special, like something out of a book.
Houses in Barrington are unique. There are both new and old homes, each with their own charm. Even if you don’t live in a big, fancy house, seeing them around can make the neighborhood feel upscale. The residents appreciate the quietness and the attractive homes. Barrington is a friendly town where families and friends can enjoy a comfortable and peaceful life together.
Barrington’s Neighborhood Bonds
In Barrington, you’ll find a close-knit community where neighbors often come together for events and activities. The neighborhood bonds are strong, and you’ll feel welcome in no time. Living here means joining in on fun gatherings and making friends.
The people in Barrington care about each other. They volunteer and help out to make the neighborhood better for everyone. Schools and community centers are places where families meet and become friends. You’ll see that events here are about sharing and caring.
Fox Point is a special part of Barrington, where the community feels like a big family. It’s easy to get to know people and to feel at home.
Here’s a table to show you what brings people together in Barrington:
| Events | Locations | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Block Parties | Fox Point Park | Sports Games |
| School Fun Days | Community Center | Nature Walks |
| Volunteer Work | Local Libraries | Arts and Crafts |
Settling in Barrington
After getting to know your neighbors and enjoying local events, you’ll want to explore the housing options and amenities that make settling in Barrington an exciting next step. Barrington has many kinds of homes. You can find big, fancy houses that cost a lot of money. If you like old houses with a lot of history or new houses with cool, modern stuff, Barrington has both.
Downtown Barrington is a fun place to live. It has old houses that are now places where you can buy things. There are lots of places to eat and spots to grab a cup of coffee. If you like to play outside, there are many parks and spots where you can be around trees and animals.
For people who love horses, Barrington Hills is a great place to live. It has big areas of land where you can ride horses and enjoy a quiet life. The houses are spread out, so you have a lot of space to yourself.
Finding a place to live in Barrington is exciting. There are so many choices, and you can pick the one that feels just right for you and your family.
Barrington’s Welcoming Residents
Barrington is a friendly place where new people are always welcome. If you decide to move here, you’ll meet nice people who are eager to help you fit in. Around Downtown Barrington or in smaller areas like Fort Barrington or Lake Barrington, you’ll often see people smiling and saying hello. Because Barrington has a small-town atmosphere, it’s easy to walk to local stores and restaurants and get to know the people who live near you.
There are many different styles of homes in Barrington. You can find very large homes that are expensive and also smaller, older ones that have their own unique charm. This means that no matter what your budget is or what kind of house you want, you can find a good place to live. Even the people who’ve homes in Barrington Hills with their horses are friendly. They enjoy sharing their life in the countryside with others.
Employment Opportunities in Barrington
While settling into your new home and meeting the friendly locals, you’ll also find that there are plenty of job options waiting for you right here in Barrington.
In Barrington, you can work in healthcare, education, stores, or offices. There are jobs for different skills, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been working a long time. And if you can’t find the perfect job in town, nearby places like Deer Park, Lake Zurich, and Buffalo Grove have more jobs, just a short drive away.
If you like big cities, Chicago’s not far away. It has lots of jobs in money stuff, computers, hotels, and more. And because Barrington’s schools are good, there are jobs for teachers and school workers, too.
Here’s a simple table to show you some job areas in Barrington:
| Job Area | Examples |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | Doctors, Nurses |
| Education | Teachers, Librarians |
| Retail | Store Managers, Cashiers |
| Professional Services | Lawyers, Real Estate |
Gourmet Local Eateries
Barrington is a town where you can find many delicious places to eat. These places offer a wide range of food choices. You might dine in a fancy restaurant or hang out in a cozy cafe. One popular spot is called Harbor Cafe, which is a great place to grab a bite or a hot drink. Here’s a look at what you can expect:
- Upscale Restaurants
- Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant serves high-quality food in a beautiful setting.
- This is a nice place for a special dinner or to celebrate a big day.
- Trendy Cafes
- Harbor Cafe is perfect for a tasty snack or a comforting beverage.
- It’s more relaxed than a larger dining establishment.
- Farm-to-Table Eats
- At Francesca’s Famiglia, the dishes are prepared with ingredients sourced from local farms.
- Eating here means you’re getting fresh food and supporting local farmers.
In Barrington, you can also enjoy food from different cultures, which is exciting to try. The eating spots range from elegant to casual and homey, giving you lots of options depending on what you’re in the mood for.
Have a great time trying all the food that Barrington has to offer!
Why move to Barrington IL
Barrington, IL is a suburb of Chicago, about 40 miles away, which means you get the best of both worlds: a cozy small town and a big city nearby. The town is known for its historic buildings that have been around for a long time and add character to the area. There are also many beautiful homes, stores, and restaurants that make living here enjoyable.
The community in Barrington is strong and supportive. People look out for one another, making it a great place for families. For those who love being outside, there’s plenty to do, from visiting parks to playing sports. Education is a priority here, with excellent schools and a community of educated adults.
Whether you prefer a large, luxurious house or something simpler and more affordable, Barrington has a variety of homes to choose from. This makes the town welcoming to just about anyone.
| Benefits of Living in Barrington | Description | Perfect For |
|---|---|---|
| Close to Chicago | Just 40 miles away | City lovers |
| Strong Community | Neighbors care about each other | Families |
| Education Focus | Good schools, smart people | Students |
| Variety of Homes | Big and small, old and new | Everyone |
Housing Cost Trends
Housing costs in Barrington have seen changes over the years, with the median home price now standing at $475,600. When you look at housing, you’ll find that:
Home prices vary:
- About 39% of homes are between $500,000 and $1 million.
- This shows there’s a range for different budgets.
- You might find both modern and historic homes.
Since you’re thinking about moving, it’s key to know if you can afford it. The median household income here is $112,794, which helps many people buy homes. Also, each person earns around $64,507 on average. With these incomes, buying a house in Barrington could be possible for you.
Remember, the cost of living isn’t just about homes. Eating out at a simple restaurant will cost you about $17.38, and if you go with someone else to a nicer place, it might be close to $70.00 for both of you.
In short, Barrington’s housing market has options for different people. It’s important to look at your money and think about what you can pay for a home and other things you’ll need.
Varied Climate Year-Round
Barrington is a town that has different kinds of weather throughout the year, and that means you can do all sorts of fun activities depending on the month. During the summer, it’s really warm, so people go outside to hike on trails and splash around in lakes or pools. But when it’s winter and everything is covered in snow, it’s a great time for ice skating or making snowmen.
As the seasons change in Barrington, so do the outdoor adventures. When it’s fall, the leaves on trees turn into amazing colors, like reds, oranges, and yellows. Then, when spring comes, you’ll see a lot of flowers popping up everywhere, adding bright colors after the cold winter.
Here’s a list of stuff you can do in Barrington during different times of the year:
| Season | Weather | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Getting warmer | Planting flowers, riding bikes |
| Summer | Very warm | Going for swims, walking on trails |
| Winter | Chilly | Skating on ice, making snow figures |
Barrington’s School Ratings
If you’re looking for a good school for your kids, Barrington’s schools are among the top in Illinois. The school district, called Barrington 220, is well-known for its quality education. Here are some key points:
High Ratings
- Barrington schools are often at the top in state rankings.
- They work hard to keep academic standards high.
- They really care about helping students do well.
Barrington High School
- It’s great for getting ready for college.
- The teachers are outstanding.
- Students can join lots of sports teams and clubs.
Elementary and Middle Schools
- Each school has a strong teaching program.
- There are many resources for different kinds of learning.
- They focus on teaching kids to be smart and have good values.
In Barrington, your kids will learn the usual subjects like reading, writing, and math. But they’ll also get to try many activities outside of class. This means they can grow in more ways than just schoolwork. Whether they like sports, art, or science, there’s something for everyone.
Moving to Barrington means your kids will get a great education.
Barrington’s Art Galleries
Barrington is a town that loves art. It has many art galleries where you can see different kinds of art. The art you’ll see might be paintings, sculptures, or other types, made by local artists or those from around the area.
When you’re in downtown Barrington, it’s easy to visit these galleries. They’re open for everyone to explore. You might see art that looks like the things you see every day, or you might see art that comes straight from an artist’s ideas. It’s interesting to look at all the art and think about what it could mean.
The galleries in Barrington also put on special exhibits and fun activities. They welcome new artists and famous ones too. These events are great times to meet the artists and hear about their work.
Barrington’s Live Music Scene
Barrington is a town with a strong live music scene. If you’re moving and want to find a place where music is a big part of the community, Barrington could be the right spot for you. Here, you can listen to all kinds of music, like rock, jazz, and country.
Downtown Barrington is where the streets are filled with music.
- Live Music Events: Musicians play on the streets, bringing them to life with sound.
- Cultural Charm: The music adds a special feel to the downtown area.
- The Catlow Theater: sometimes lets music fans come in to listen to performances.
Local Hangouts are places like bars and restaurants where bands play music while you have a meal.
- *Friendly Atmosphere*: You can meet people who also enjoy the same music as you do.
Outdoor Fun is also a part of Barrington’s music.
- Barrington Park District: They’ve concerts outside.
- Music Festivals: Families can come and listen to music outside without paying.
If you’re planning to move, think about enjoying Barrington’s music by going to shows in the evenings or on weekends. It’s a good way to relax, make friends, and feel like you’re part of the community.
Youth Soccer Programs
Youth Soccer Programs in Barrington are a great place for kids to start playing soccer. These programs teach children the basics of the game and also show them how to work well with others. If you and your family are moving to Barrington, you’ll be glad to know that kids of any age can join in the fun.
The coaches in these programs are very friendly and committed to helping young players improve. They demonstrate soccer skills and the value of teamwork. Winning isn’t the only goal; it’s about playing in a fair way and enjoying the game.
These soccer programs are well-organized, with practice sessions and matches that ensure kids learn and have a great time. There are even exciting tournaments where families can come to support and cheer for the players, creating a community atmosphere.
Joining one of Barrington’s youth soccer programs means your kids will meet new friends, learn how to play soccer, and understand the importance of being part of a team. For families that are fans of soccer, these programs are an excellent choice!
Relocating to Barrington, IL
If you’re considering a move to Barrington, IL, you’ll find a welcoming community that offers a variety of homes and plenty of green spaces for your family to enjoy. Barrington is 40 miles from Chicago, so you’re not too far from the big city. But there’s a small-town feel here that’s really nice.
- Homes for Sale
- *Range of Options*: Whether you want a big house or something smaller, there’s something for you.
- Luxury homes with big yards
- Cozy places close to town
- Historic houses with lots of stories
*Prices*: You might see a big house that costs a lot or a smaller place that’s less money.
- Fancy places can be millions of dollars
- More simple homes could be less
*Areas to Live*: Different parts have different things to offer.
- Barrington Hills has horses and nature
- Downtown is great for walking and shopping
- Other suburbs nearby are good to look at too
Barrington’s Premier Golf Courses
For golf lovers, Makray Memorial Golf Club and other courses in the area offer beautiful views and excellent facilities. When you play golf here, you’ll see wide-open spaces, green grass, and trees. The golf courses in Barrington are top places for people who like to play golf. They’ve everything you need to have a good time and get better at your game.
Makray Memorial Golf Club is a favorite spot for golf players. It’s not just about hitting the ball into a hole; it’s about enjoying a day outside. The course is pretty and hard, which makes the game fun and exciting. You’ll want to play again and again.
Barrington’s golf courses are quiet and peaceful. They’re near homes with big yards, called equestrian properties, where horses live. These homes have a lot of land, and it’s pretty to look at while you play. The courses are a great place to relax and forget about school or work for a while.
Barrington’s Commuting Options
Getting to Chicago from Barrington is pretty easy and you have a few choices on how to do it. Let’s look at the ways you can go to the city:
- Metra Train
- *Union Pacific/Northwest Line*: This line will take you straight into Chicago.
- *Convenient*: The trains run often, so you won’t have to wait too long.
- *Park & Ride*: You can leave your car at the station and then take the train.
- Driving
- *Expressways*: You can use highways I-90 and I-94 to drive to the city.
- *Carpooling/Vanpooling*: This means sharing a ride with other people. It can help you save money and make the trip faster.
- Eco-friendly
- *Biking*: Riding your bike is good for your health and the environment. There are special lanes and paths just for bikes.
- *Walking*: If you live close enough, walking is a healthy choice and doesn’t cost you anything.
What are the pros and cons of moving to Chicago?
Before you pack your bags for Chicago, let’s weigh the advantages and drawbacks of making the Windy City your new home.
You’ll find that one of the big cons of living in Chicago is the cost. It can be pretty pricey compared to other places. Homes, food, and even getting around can take a big bite out of your wallet.
But, don’t let that scare you off! Chicago’s got a lot of good stuff going for it too. You’ll see amazing places to eat, fun things to do, and lots of parks to play in. If you like sports, you’re in luck—Chicago loves its teams! And, if you’re into learning, there are tons of museums and libraries to explore.
What County is Barrington,IL located in?
Barrington, IL spreads across two counties—you’ll find it in both Cook County and Lake County. This is something to remember because it can affect things like school districts and local services. Here’s a quick look at what this means for you:
Cook County
- Zip Code: Part of Barrington is under the 60010 zip code.
- Area Code: You might use 847 or 224 if you live in this part.
- Surrounding Areas: You’ll be near other Cook County towns.
Lake County
- Zip Code: Some of Barrington is also in the 60011 zip code.
- Area Code: The same area codes, 847 and 224, apply here.
- Surrounding Areas: You’ll be close to Lake County places too.
Barrington operates in the Central Time (CT) zone, so you’ll set your clocks just like Chicago. And at 830 feet above sea level, you’re sitting a bit higher than many other places.
Knowing which county you’re in helps you understand local rules and the community. So, as you get ready to move, think about how these counties might shape your Barrington life.
Final thoughts on Relocating to Barrington, IL
If you’re considering a move to Barrington, IL, you’ll find a community that’s both charming and sophisticated, with homes to fit a wide range of tastes and budgets. The homes in Barrington include both huge, fancy houses and smaller, cozy ones. You can pick from modern styles or houses that have been around for a long time and tell a story.
When you stroll through the downtown area, called ‘The Village’, you’ll see old Victorian homes that now have shops and places to eat. It’s a fun spot to explore and try different foods. Plus, there are famous spots to see, like landmarks that have been there for years.
For fun outside, Barrington has lots of parks and nature places where you can play and explore. If you love horses and lots of space, Barrington Hills might be the perfect spot for you. It’s quiet and feels like the countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Barrington Illinois a Good Place to Live?
Yes, Barrington, Illinois is a good place to live. It’s got a strong community feel, historic homes, great shops, and lots of parks. The community profile suits families and those loving the outdoors.
Is Barrington IL Affluent?
Yes, you’re right to think Barrington, IL is affluent. The community profile shows high home prices and incomes. Many houses cost over half a million, reflecting the wealth in this area.
What Is the Average Income in Barrington Chicago?
You’ll find the average income in Barrington, Chicago is quite high. With an income overview, expect a median household income of about $112,794, which means many people there earn good money.
What Are the Nicest Neighborhoods in Barrington?
You’ll find Barrington’s nicest neighborhoods have lots of community charm. Look at Barrington Hills for space and luxury, or downtown for quaint homes close to schools and shops. There’s something for everyone!
Conclusion
In conclusion, moving to Barrington, IL could be a great choice if you love a peaceful, suburban life with strong community ties. You’ll find friendly neighbors, good job chances, and easy ways to travel to work.
Barrington sits in Lake County. Remember, every place has its ups and downs, just like Chicago. But if you’re looking for a top-notch school system and a cozy village feel, Barrington might just be the perfect spot for your next home.
