Evanston, IL
Why You’ll Love Living in Evanston, Illinois
Located 30 minutes north of Chicago, Evanston, Illinois, is a great home base for residents who commute into the city for work. But it’s worth noting that Evanston presents plenty of jobs in industries like education, health care and research. It’s home to Northwestern University, which is a significant employer, and the university draws plenty of recent graduates who want to plant roots in the community. In the vibrant downtown district, you’ll find nearly 90 different restaurants and cafes, as well as enough breweries to satisfy even the pickiest drinker.
Thinking of moving to Evanston, IL? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Evanston, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Evanston, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Evanston, IL, a Best Place to Live in 2024
Evanston, IL, is intellectual at its core. There’s no doubt about it — this is a college town. It’s home to one of one of the top colleges in the United States — Northwestern University — that alone gives this city of nearly 78,000 some panache. But add must-visit restaurants, hip bars, tons of outdoor recreational opportunities and a dynamic arts scene, and it’s not difficult to see why Evanston is one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Yes, it’s a Chicago suburb — just 13 miles north. Still, it’s pretty spectacular on its own, offering amenities such as a more affordable cost of living than the Windy City, an easy commute via metro and bus connections, a lovely location on the shores of Lake Michigan (can you say beaches!), and 76 city parks for all to enjoy.
The city has nine distinct business districts, too, and the downtown area hosts fun community events and has numerous cool shops for anything you might want or need. Live music venues are a popular place for students and those looking for a relaxing night out. Evanston is working to be more inclusive and has all kinds of ways to get involved on the community level so people feel more connected to their city.
Evanston, IL Quality of Life LivScore
Evanston, IL Top Categories
Health
Amenities
Economy
Evanston ranks highest for health, amenities and economy.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Evanston, IL
Summers are warm but not unbearably hot. Winter temperatures usually dip below 42°F, and January is the coldest month. The average highs and lows are 81°F and 63°F (summer) and 34°F and 19°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Evanston is 36 inches. January typically gets the most snow.
The average annual rainfall in Evanston is 38 inches, with May and June being the wettest months.
Evanston averages 193 sunny days a year.
Evanston is filled with beautiful beaches, parks and trails, but few areas are able to beat the city’s lakefront paths for running or biking. With views of the Chicago Skyline and Lake Michigan, the paths are a stunning escape from the city. The Northwestern University Sailing Center also offers classes open to the public in sailing, windsurfing and paddle boarding.
Things To Do in Evanston, IL
Spend an evening stargazing through the historic telescope at Northwestern University’s Dearborn Observatory. The University hosts free Friday night tours for the public. In fact, the University is so embedded into the tapestry of the city of Evanston that the University was founded before the city itself!
Adventurous kids will love Circus Summer Camp through The Actor’s Gymnasium. They can stretch their creativity through juggling, aerial skills, stilts and more!
Evanston is home to the world headquarters of Rotary International, the historic nonprofit with more than 35,000 clubs worldwide. These clubs work toward the same goals of promoting peace, fighting disease, saving mothers and children, supporting local children, growing local economies, and providing clean water, sanitation and hygiene. Psstt…if you’re a young person looking to get involved with your community, you should absolutely join your local Rotary chapter.
Running from May to November, the Downtown Evanston Farmers’ Market hosts more than 60 local vendors each Saturday morning. Local farmers and artisans sell fruits and veggies, arts and crafts, and baked goods.
Campagnola is a beloved local Italian restaurant on Chicago Avenue. It boasts simple but decadent dishes that highlight local, seasonal ingredients in a cozy and warm atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a night out with friends or a first date.
SPACE is a popular live music venue in Evanston that hosts a variety of performances, including concerts featuring both local and nationally recognized artists. Northwestern University’s Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, which is located at Northwestern University, is also a good choice for a night out. It is known for hosting theater productions, dance performances and musicals.
Enjoy classic happy-hour fare with half-price apps and draft beers at the ever-popular The Peckish Pig. Or consider the elevated cocktails at Ward Eight or Five & Dime for something a little different.
The Local and State Economy in Evanston, IL
Education, health care, and professional and technical services are three of Evanston’s largest industries. Additionally, Rotary International’s world headquarters are in Evanston.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Evanston is 10.25%.
Yes, Illinois has a state income tax.
The NorthShore University HealthSystem operates several hospitals and clinics in the Evanston area. In addition, NorthShore is ranked among the nation’s top teaching hospitals. Evanston is also home to Ascension Saint Francis, which has a Level 1 Trauma and Heart Center.
There are several colleges and universities in Evanston, IL, but the most notable is Northwestern University.
Weather in Evanston, IL
Average Temperatures
59 High / 41 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
38 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
36 Inches
Quick Facts about Evanston, Illinois
- Median Home Value
- $393,445
- Median Property Tax
- $4,057
- Total Population
- 77,940
- Average Commute
- 24 min
- Median Household Income
- $99,480
- Median Rent per Month
- $1,330
Map of Evanston, IL
Evanston, IL: Where to Live Now
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