So what is the difference between La Grange & La Grange Park Illinois!?
If you are new to Chicagoland, you may be wondering why there are two towns to the west with practically the same name. Why La Grange and La Grange Park?
Town History & Story of New Beginnings
La Grange, Illinois was established in 1879 by businessman F.D. Cossitt after losing his grocery business in the Great Chicago Fire. The town’s thriving downtown shopping district reflects these origins. It is rich with historic buildings and homes, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. So, if you love 19th and early 20th century architecture, you will love this town.
La Grange Park, Illinois was established a bit later, in 1892, by a group of concerned neighbors of a stonemason who was operating a “blind pig” out of his home. Originally a small farming community, its inhabitants were more interested in putting a stop to illegal drinking and gambling than expanding their business reach. This town’s plethora of parks and trails reflects its origins.
Location and residents
La Grange, IL is one mile further west of Chicago and has about 2000 more residents than La Grange Park. Both towns provide easy access to major highways, making it easy to get to Chicago for work and fun. If you would rather get around using public transportation, the Metra Rail line as well as the Pace Bus system encompasses both La Grange and La Grange Park with bus and train service.
While both towns can be described as “affluent,” the average family in La Grange earns around $132,00 per year. The average family in La Grange Park brings home about $95,000. Both towns have ample community events. La Grange organizes several walks and parades as well as a craft show and a summer festival of carnival rides, food and drink vendors, and music. In addition, La Grange offers a busy downtown district complete with “restaurant row,” often frequented by Hollywood celebrities. Not to be outdone, La Grange Park also organizes several notable music festivals each year and boasts beautiful parks and bike trails.
La Grange & La Grange Park IL High Level Real Estate Data
The biggest difference between the two towns in terms of real estate are that most of the homes in La Grange are single family homes, and, as noted above, many 19th and early 20th century homes. The average cost range of a home in La Grange, IL is around $275,000 to $1 million.
La Grange Park, IL also has a number of beautiful historic homes; however, the type of real estate is a bit more diverse. The average cost of a home here ranges from $100,000 condos to $1 million. La Grange Park is also currently experiencing an influx of new families with young children.
Which town is right for you?
Choosing the right town for you involves weighing your values and needs against not only what a particular town has to offer, but also what a particular property may have to offer. So as you consider your commute, what you want to do with your free time, schools, and businesses, be sure to consider what you want and do not want in a property. Nancy Miller, a long-time resident of La Grange Park, Illinois, and experienced Realtor in Chicagoland, would love to help you navigate all these options in choosing a home that is right for you. Interested in moving to one of these beautiful towns? Let’s grab a coffee!
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