Illinois Arlington Heights
Moving to Arlington Heights, Illinois
Arlington Heights, Illinois, offers young professionals a perfect mix of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Located just 25 miles from downtown Chicago, the village is known for its safe neighborhoods, walkable downtown, and excellent public transit, including direct Metra access to the city. The housing options range from modern apartments to charming single-family homes, and the area is rich with green space, including Lake Arlington and over 50 local parks. Arlington Heights also supports an active lifestyle with fitness centers, bike trails, and recreational programs, making it easy to stay healthy and connected to the community.
For those seeking culture and entertainment, Arlington Heights delivers with a vibrant dining scene, cozy coffee shops, and venues like the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre. Seasonal events, such as the Frontier Days Festival and the Arlington Alfresco outdoor dining series, create opportunities to engage with neighbors and enjoy local flavors. With its strong sense of community, easy access to Chicago’s job market, and a balanced pace of life, Arlington Heights is an ideal spot for young professionals to grow both personally and professionally.
Arlington Heights by the numbers
City population
City rank of cost of living
Median home price
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Discover Arlington Heights: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Arlington Heights combines the best of suburban comfort with urban energy. Its lively downtown, filled with locally owned shops, diverse dining options, and seasonal community events, offers something for everyone. Whether you're catching a show, strolling through markets, or enjoying the village's scenic parks, every day brings a new way to connect and explore.
Historic Charm & Vibrant Culture
With roots dating back to the 1800s, Arlington Heights blends historical character with a modern cultural vibe. Charming neighborhoods, preserved architecture, and welcoming public spaces reflect its rich past while offering a vibrant atmosphere for art, food, and family life. Local initiatives and neighborhood pride help maintain a strong sense of identity throughout the village.
Arts & Entertainment
The arts are alive in Arlington Heights, thanks to institutions like the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, which hosts plays, concerts, and comedy shows year-round. Public art installations, galleries, and community theater groups also contribute to a creative spirit that enriches the entire community. Festivals and live performances regularly energize downtown, turning ordinary evenings into memorable outings.
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
Outdoor Recreation & Nature
From the trails and water activities at Lake Arlington to the peaceful pathways of Busse Woods, Arlington Heights offers ample ways to enjoy the outdoors. Residents love the well-kept parks, playgrounds, and open spaces that cater to walkers, cyclists, and families alike. In every season, nature is just around the corner—perfect for relaxing or staying active.
Lake Arlington
History & Heritage
Arlington Heights honors its past through well-preserved landmarks and institutions like the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, which tells the story of the village’s evolution from a rural settlement to a thriving suburb. Historic homes and cultural exhibits provide a glimpse into local life over the centuries, deepening appreciation for the area’s roots.
Arlington Heights Historical Museum
Community Events & Festivals
Community spirit shines year-round in Arlington Heights through beloved events like the Frontier Days Festival, the Holiday Tree Lighting, and summer concerts in the park. Farmers markets, art walks, and local parades keep the calendar full and families engaged. These shared experiences bring residents together and highlight the village's strong sense of community.
Frontier Days Festival
Sports and Recreation
Sport and Recreation
Arlington Heights, Illinois, is a lively suburban hub where staying active and enjoying sports is part of everyday life. Whether you're a passionate fan, weekend athlete, or just looking to enjoy the great outdoors, the village offers an array of recreational opportunities for all ages and interests.
Local Sports & Major Events
While Arlington Heights doesn’t have major league stadiums, it offers easy access to Chicago’s celebrated sports scene—home to the Bears (NFL), Bulls (NBA), Cubs and White Sox (MLB), Blackhawks (NHL), and Chicago Fire FC (MLS). Locally, residents cheer for the Arlington Heights Hersey Huskies and other high school teams, with community pride running deep during Friday night football and local tournaments. The nearby Arlington Ridge Center serves as a recreational epicenter with swimming, fitness classes, and indoor sports.
Parks, Trails & Outdoor Activities
With over 50 parks and facilities managed by the Arlington Heights Park District, outdoor recreation is never far away. Residents enjoy scenic spots like Lake Arlington, ideal for kayaking, walking, and cycling, and the expansive greenery of Pioneer Park. Trails at nearby Busse Woods offer miles of biking and hiking through woodlands and lakes, perfect for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Community Sports & Fitness
Arlington Heights fosters a strong community sports culture with youth and adult leagues in soccer, baseball, pickleball, basketball, and more. The Park District runs year-round programs and camps for kids, as well as wellness and group fitness classes for adults. Golfers can take a swing at Nickol Knoll or Arlington Lakes Golf Club—both popular, well-maintained courses in the village.
Athletics
Whether you're playing in a league, catching a game, or soaking in the outdoors, Arlington Heights offers a dynamic blend of sports, fitness, and recreation for a well-balanced lifestyle.
Adventures
Adventures
Arlington Heights, Illinois, offers a dynamic mix of suburban comfort and everyday adventure. From scenic parks and nature preserves to cultural landmarks and lively community events, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant northwest suburb of Chicago.
Nature & Outdoor Exploration
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in and around Arlington Heights. Lake Arlington is a local favorite for walking, cycling, paddle boating, and fishing, while the nearby Ned Brown Preserve (Busse Woods) features miles of multi-use trails, picnic areas, and wildlife spotting opportunities. Families can spend the day at Arlington Heights' many community parks, complete with playgrounds, sports fields, and splash pads, or venture to Deer Grove Forest Preserve for hiking and tranquil nature walks.
Ned Brown Preserve (Busse Woods)
History, Culture & Day Trips
History buffs can explore the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, which offers a look into the village’s rich past through preserved homes, exhibits, and educational programs. Art lovers will enjoy performances at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, a local gem hosting theater, live music, and comedy. For quick getaways, downtown Chicago is a short train ride away on Metra’s Union Pacific Northwest Line, offering museums, lakefront attractions, and world-class dining. Closer to home, nearby destinations like the Chicago Botanic Garden and Long Grove provide charming escapes filled with gardens, shops, and seasonal festivals.
Metra’s Union Pacific Northwest Line
Whether you’re strolling through nature, catching a show, or uncovering local history, Arlington Heights offers a wide range of adventures for all interests and seasons.
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Arlington Heights, Illinois, comes alive year-round with a rich lineup of seasonal events that reflect its strong sense of community, local pride, and Midwestern charm. From festive holiday traditions to lively summer concerts and fall family fun, each season brings new ways for residents and visitors to connect and celebrate.
Winter to Spring
Winter kicks off with the beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony in downtown Arlington Heights, where families gather for music, treats, and photos with Santa. As snow falls, North School Park transforms into a magical light display, perfect for evening strolls. As spring arrives, the Arlington Heights Farmers Market returns with fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items. Spring also features community clean-up events for Earth Day, and local favorites like the Youth Art Fair and Arlington Heights Memorial Library's book festivals, showcasing creativity and literacy.
Arlington Heights Farmers Market
Summer to Fall
Summer is packed with excitement, starting with the Sounds of Summer Concert Series in Harmony Park—featuring live music under the stars. The Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks Show at Arlington Park Racetrack is a highlight of the season, drawing crowds from all over. Fall brings the Autumn Harvest Festival, complete with hayrides, pumpkins, and local food vendors. The community wraps up the season with festive Halloween in the Park events and the Annual Holiday Walk as the village transitions into winter.
Sounds of Summer Concerts
Whether it's celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks, enjoying music on a warm summer night, or sipping cider at a fall festival, Arlington Heights offers a full calendar of seasonal events that create lasting memories and bring the community together.
Community Resources
Arlington Heights, Illinois, offers residents exceptional access to high-quality healthcare, with a strong network of hospitals, clinics, and wellness services. Whether you need routine checkups, specialized treatments, or mental health support, Arlington Heights is home to trusted providers committed to comprehensive, compassionate care.
Major Hospitals & Medical Centers
The heart of local healthcare is Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH), a full-service hospital located in Arlington Heights. As part of NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health, NCH offers a wide range of medical services, including advanced cardiovascular care, orthopedics, cancer treatment, and a Level II Trauma Center. The hospital is known for its state-of-the-art technology, award-winning maternity services, and 24/7 emergency care.
Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH)
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital
Located nearby in Park Ridge, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital offers nationally ranked specialty services, including neurology, pediatrics, and transplant care. Residents also benefit from a variety of outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and specialty providers throughout the area, covering everything from dermatology and physical therapy to dental care and sports medicine.
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital
Mental Health & Community Wellness
Mental health care is a vital part of the community’s wellness infrastructure. Arlington Heights is served by providers such as AMITA Health Behavioral Medicine Institute and The Josselyn Center, which offer therapy, counseling, addiction support, and psychiatric services. Community programs focus on wellness education, youth mental health, and crisis intervention. Additionally, residents have access to affordable care through local family service organizations and telehealth options.
AMITA Health Behavioral Medicine Institute
Urgent Care & Preventive Services
For same-day care, several NCH Immediate Care Centers, Advocate Clinic at Walgreens, and independent urgent care centers are available for minor illnesses, injuries, and routine tests. Preventive care is a key focus, with community health initiatives providing flu shots, screenings, fitness classes, and nutritional counseling at local clinics and wellness events.
NCH Immediate Care Centers
From emergency services to long-term wellness planning, Arlington Heights offers a robust healthcare system designed to support the physical and mental well-being of its residents at every stage of life.
Arlington Heights, Illinois, is home to a rich and diverse educational environment that fosters academic achievement and personal growth for learners of all ages. With a variety of public, private, and higher education institutions, the community is committed to providing excellent educational opportunities that support students’ intellectual, social, and emotional development.
Public Schools
Arlington Heights is served by Township High School District 214, one of the top-rated districts in the state. The district includes several highly regarded high schools, such as Buffalo Grove High School, Prospect High School, and Rolling Meadows High School, which offer a wide range of academic programs, including honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, fine arts, athletics, and STEM-focused curriculums. The district is dedicated to preparing students for college and careers, providing opportunities for dual enrollment and career-focused pathways. Elementary and middle schools in the district are known for their strong academic programs, focus on student engagement, and comprehensive support services.
Township High School District 214
Arlington Heights also has a number of highly ranked charter and magnet schools that emphasize specialized education approaches, such as project-based learning, arts education, and bilingual programs. These schools work to nurture curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in young learners.
Private & Faith-Based Schools
For families seeking alternative education options, Arlington Heights offers a variety of private and faith-based schools that provide smaller class sizes and personalized attention. Institutions such as St. James School, Christian Liberty Academy, and Our Lady of the Wayside School are known for their commitment to academic excellence, values-based education, and individualized learning approaches. These schools emphasize moral development alongside rigorous academic standards.
St. James School
Our Lady of the Wayside School
Higher Education & Lifelong Learning
Arlington Heights is located near several prominent colleges and universities, offering ample opportunities for higher education. Just a short drive away, Harper College, a community college in Palatine, provides affordable associate degree programs, workforce certifications, and opportunities for students to transfer to four-year institutions. Harper College also offers a robust continuing education program for adult learners looking to gain new skills or advance in their careers.
Harper College
In nearby Deerfield, Lake Forest College and National Louis University provide additional opportunities for undergraduate and graduate programs. The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) and Northern Illinois University (NIU) are also easily accessible, offering a wide range of academic degrees and professional development opportunities.
Lake Forest College
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)
Northern Illinois University (NIU)
Lifelong Learning & Career Development
For those pursuing career advancement or personal growth, Arlington Heights offers numerous professional development courses and lifelong learning options through community centers and local institutions. Whether you're seeking new skills for career advancement or exploring new interests, there are a variety of workforce training programs and certification courses that align with current job market needs.
From excellent public schools to top-notch private institutions and abundant higher education opportunities, Arlington Heights supports a dynamic educational landscape that nurtures the growth of students of all ages. Whether you’re a parent looking for the best school for your child or an adult seeking to advance your career, Arlington Heights provides resources to foster academic success and personal development.
Arlington Heights, Illinois, offers residents a robust array of public services and utilities, ensuring the community remains safe, efficient, and well-connected. Whether you're new to the area or have lived here for years, Arlington Heights makes accessing essential services straightforward and convenient.
Village of Arlington Heights Government & Public Services
Government & Safety
Arlington Heights prioritizes safety, community engagement, and civic involvement. The Arlington Heights Police Department ensures quick emergency responses, crime prevention initiatives, and community outreach programs to keep neighborhoods secure. The Arlington Heights Fire Department provides prompt emergency medical services, fire prevention programs, and disaster response. The village's strong infrastructure supports public safety, making it a welcoming and secure place to live.
Arlington Heights
The village also provides essential services like water, sewer, and trash collection. Arlington Heights Public Works manages the community’s infrastructure, maintaining streets and public spaces while also promoting sustainability through recycling and green initiatives. Residents can also participate in energy-efficient programs designed to help reduce environmental impact.
Arlington Heights Police Department
Arlington Heights Fire Department
Public Works and Engineering
Weather
Arlington Heights experiences all four seasons, providing plenty of opportunities for seasonal activities throughout the year. Winters are cold with occasional snow, creating a picturesque landscape, while spring and fall offer mild temperatures perfect for outdoor festivals and events. Summer brings warmth, ideal for enjoying the town’s parks and various community gatherings. Average highs in July are in the 80s, while January lows typically dip into the 20s and 30s.
Arlington Heights Weather
Transportation
Getting around Arlington Heights is simple with a range of local and regional transportation options. The Pace Bus service connects the village to neighboring areas, while major highways like I-90 and I-294 offer easy access to nearby suburbs and downtown Chicago. For commuters heading into the city, the Arlington Heights Metra Station provides a direct route to Chicago's Union Station via the Northwest Line.
Transportation Resources
For air travel, Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is conveniently located just a short drive from the village, offering both domestic and international flights.
Pace Bus
Arlington Heights Metra Station
O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
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