As you explore the charming Barrington Village, 40 miles northwest of Chicago, you’ll discover a community rich in history and modern amenities. With a population of 10,401, this National Historic District offers more than just picturesque streets and historic architecture. Imagine yourself at the lively Fourth of July Blowout or wandering through the Farmers’ Markets, surrounded by a community with a median income of $126,250. But there’s more to uncover about its educational excellence and vibrant local economy. So, what’s the secret behind Barrington’s unique charm and appeal? Let’s find out.
Key Takeaways
- Barrington Village’s population is 10,401, experiencing a 2.79% decrease since 2020.
- Median household income in Barrington Village is $126,250, with a poverty level of 3.6%.
- The village is located 40 miles northwest of Chicago, serving as a central hub for a 90-square-mile area.
- Barrington Community Unit School District 220 boasts over 85% of teachers with advanced degrees.
- Barrington is a National Register Historic District, featuring iconic architecture like the Octagon House.
Demographics and Population Overview
Barrington Village, IL, is home to a population of 10,401 people as of 2024, reflecting a decrease of 2.79% since the 2020 census. You might think, “Great, fewer neighbors, more parking!” But let’s explore the juicy details. The annual population growth rate is a thrilling -0.72%. With a population density of 2,237.01 people per square mile, it’s cozy enough to know when your neighbor sneezes but not so packed that you can’t escape for a breather.
The village covers a total land area of 4.6 square miles, offering plenty of room for its residents. Now, onto the racial mix: a whopping 85.49% of the population is White, which is about as diverse as a bag of marshmallows. Asians make up 8.97%, adding a splash of flavor.
The rest? A mix of Black or African American (1.33%), two or more races (2.96%), and other races (1.25%). Age-wise, the median age is 42.4 years. You’ve got 28.90% of folks under 18—future Barrington leaders, or maybe just TikTok influencers. The largest age group is 5 to 9 years. Households average 2.59 people, so it’s small enough to bump elbows but big enough to avoid too much family drama.
Economic Insights and Income Levels
While Barrington Village boasts a quaint population, its economic landscape paints a vibrant picture. Imagine you’re swimming in money; that’s Barrington’s vibe. The median household income ranges from $112,794 to a jaw-dropping $142,819.
Yeah, that’s some serious cash flow. Most of this dough comes from auto sales, gasoline, and those lovely state-taxable auto repairs. It’s like a car lover’s paradise, with 56% of sales-tax income cruising in from these sources.
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Here’s a quick look at income levels:
| Income Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $126,250 |
| Average Household Income | $173,671 |
| Per Capita Income | $64,507 |
| Median Income for Families | $157,083 |
Now, let’s get real. With a poverty level at just 3.6%, Barrington’s got it made, and only 0.2% of kids are in that boat. Education’s a big deal here, with 72% of adults holding bachelor’s degrees or higher, because, you know, brains equal bucks. The highs and lows of income are like a roller coaster, with the southeast part of town playing the high roller, while central areas keep it more modest. Barrington’s income is in the 98th percentile—take that, rest of America!
Community Features and Events
Nestled just 40 miles northwest of Chicago, the Village of Barrington offers a vibrant community experience for its 10,722 residents, serving as the central hub for the larger 90-square-mile Barrington area.
You’ll find a delightful mix of community features and events that’ll make you wonder why you ever thought Netflix was a good way to spend a Saturday.
Picture this:
- Fourth of July Blowout: An explosive celebration that’ll make your Instagram followers believe you’re living in a Hallmark movie.
- Farmers’ Markets: Held weekly, providing a cornucopia of fresh produce that’ll guilt-trip you into eating healthier.
- Thursday Night Fun: Events that turn mundane weekdays into social extravaganzas, because who says fun is just for weekends?
- Langendorf Park: Your go-to spot for anything from a jog to a leisurely stroll, complete with a side of nature’s best.
The charm here is almost palpable, a curious blend of small-town warmth and vibrant suburban life.
And if you’re into culture, Barrington’s White House hosts top-tier programs that might just make you forget you’re not in New York.
Education and Academic Achievements
Education stands as a cornerstone of the Barrington Village community, with the Barrington Community Unit School District 220 leading the charge. Covering a whopping 72-square miles, this district is like the king of the hill, stretching over four counties and 12 villages. It boasts a robust lineup of one early-learning center, eight elementary schools, two middle schools, and the crown jewel, one high school.
And guess what? Over 85% of the teachers have Master’s or Doctorate degrees. They’re not just handing out homework—they’re practically professors! Barrington High School, nestled on West Main Street, has a history as rich as your grandma’s chocolate cake.
Since its establishment in 1949, it’s been racking up accolades faster than you can say “academic excellence.” Ranked #553 on Newsweek’s list in 2008 and sitting in the top 1% for AP exams, it’s not just any school—it’s the place where 98% of graduates roll into college. The school is recognized for its strong academic performance and consistently ranks among America’s Top Public High Schools.
With programs like its award-winning fine arts department and a physics program that starred in “Beyond 2000,” students here aren’t just learning—they’re thriving. So, if you’re craving academic success, Barrington’s got your back.
Transportation and Connectivity
Getting around Barrington Village is a breeze, thanks to its robust transportation and connectivity network. Seriously, you’ll wonder if you stumbled into some magical land of convenient commuting.
Start with the Metra station smack in the village center, your golden ticket to Chicago’s pulsating heart. You’re just a ride away on the Union Pacific-Northwest Line, feeling like a VIP who’s got places to be.
- Metra Station: Wave goodbye to your car, hop on the train, and let someone else do the driving.
- PACE Dial-A-Ride: For seniors and the disabled who’ve had enough of staying home—c’mon, get out there!
- I-90 Express Bus: Who needs teleportation when you’ve got a bus connecting you to Chicago and O’Hare?
- Bacoa’s Easy Riders: Free rides for older adults—because who doesn’t love a chauffeur?
And hey, if you’re a parent, Barrington 220 Transportation‘s got your kids sorted with school buses that practically run like clockwork. Bus transportation is provided at no charge for residents living 1.5 miles or more from school, making it both convenient and cost-effective for families.
Commuter parking’s a breeze too, with rates and maps waiting for you online. Let’s face it, Barrington’s got it all figured out, turning the daily grind into a smooth cruise.
Shopping and Dining Hotspots
After you’ve effortlessly navigated Barrington Village’s transportation network, it’s time to explore its vibrant shopping and dining scene. Imagine this: you’re strolling through The Foundry, an outdoor mall, where you can snag a Euro American pastry or even sign up for a martial arts class—because who doesn’t need a side of kung fu with their shopping spree?
Then, there’s Ice House Mall & Village Shops, a charming boutique experience housed in a historic building, where you can find anything from unique home décor to fine rugs, and even art galleries that make you feel more cultured than a yogurt.
If you’re feeling fancy, The Arboretum of South Barrington is your go-to. This upscale spot boasts everything from L.L. Bean’s first Midwest store to iPic Theaters. Nearby, you’ll find the Deer Park Town Center, an award-winning outdoor mall featuring over 70 shops and eateries, ideal for those who love a mix of shopping and dining options.
Now, let’s talk food. Chessie’s Restaurant offers dinner in a vintage railway car, perfect for those who want a meal with a side of nostalgia. Craving Italian? Hit up ZaZa’s Tavola Italiana for pasta that’ll make you say “mamma mia!”
With seasonal festivals and events, Barrington’s downtown isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. So go on, indulge yourself in this unique haven.
Historic Preservation and Architecture
Barrington Village boasts a rich fabric of historic preservation and architectural marvels that transport you through time. Here, history isn’t just a dusty relic—it’s alive, breathing through every street corner.
- The Octagon House: It’s not just any house—it’s an eight-sided wonder, once a home, now a business, and on the National Register of Historic Places, no less.
- Catlow Theater: This joint’s got style, with Prairie School interiors that’ll make you think twice about what “modern” really means.
- 145 West Main Street: Built in 1898, this Classical Revival gem could probably teach your high school history class a thing or two.
- National Historic District: One of Illinois’ largest—because size does matter, at least when it comes to historic districts.
In 1986, Barrington was crowned a National Register Historic District, thanks to Hasbrouck Hunderman Architects and their 1984 survey. Fires in the 1890s forced the replacement of frame stores with brick structures, marking a turning point in Barrington’s architectural evolution.
Fast forward to 2005, and Thomason and Associates gave the area a facelift with fresh data on 350+ properties.
You can’t swing a cat without hitting a historic gem here. With design guidelines to keep things looking spiffy, and zoning laws that balance the old with the new, Barrington isn’t just preserving history—it’s downright flaunting it.
Final Thoughts
So, you’ve got Barrington Village—where history cozies up to modern living, and folks aren’t just surviving, they’re thriving. With a median income that makes wallets sing and a school district that could teach Hogwarts a thing or two, this place is more than just its charming façade. It’s a community that knows how to throw a party and keep the past alive. Sure, it’s 40 miles from Chicago, but who needs the Windy City’s chaos when you’ve got this gem, right?
