Village of Lake Zurich

Population: 18,104
Average Home Value: $393,138

Village Hall: 847-438-5141

The Village of Lake Zurich, 37 miles from the Loop, hasn’t let progress spoil its original resort atmosphere. Even homeowners feel like they’re on vacation. The village has seen a series of diversified development. Originally the home of the Potawatomi tribe, settlers were drawn to the area in the early 19th century. With the influx of newcomers, the village grew, becoming a posh resort for Chicago’s elite. Village services have grown with the population, but the emphasis in this natural haven is ecological conservation. Lake Zurich, a privately owners 250-acre lake, is one of the states cleanest. The fishing is great, and the village operates a 47-acre park with beach and boat rentals. A second lakefront park opened in 1997. The park district doesn’t stop at the beach, however. Quality youth baseball, football and soccer programs are available due to the efforts of dedicated volunteer organizations. Lake Zurich’s downtown area has also become a well rounded marketplace, with a variety of retail outlets, restaurants and professional offices to serve both residents and tourists.

Housing:

Residential areas are dominated by single-family homes. The solid frame resort homes close to the lake are the village’s oldest. Construction farther from the lake has been primarily frame and brick bi-level homes. Spacious four bedroom Colonials are a favorite. Most of the village’s homes are less than 20 years old, but some century-old restored farmhouses still exist. Home buyers come for the country atmosphere, and there is still plenty of open space around the village to satisfy those needs. With development of new properties comes the widening price range. In general, most homes fall in the $2250,000 to $700,000 range. The 2006 average home value was $393,138.

Schools:

All children attend District 95. In order to accommodate the influx of new students, two schools were completed in 1993—Isaac Fox Elementary and Lake Zurich Middle School, South Campus. Complete honors, advanced placement and special education programs are provided at Lake Zurich High School. The average ACT composite score for 2006 was 22.8. There are four nursery and pre-schools in the area.

Transportation:

The Edens Expressway (I-94) and the Tri-State Tollway (I-294) make it a 45-minute ride into the Loop. O’Hare Airport is 25 minutes away, while Midway is an hour’s drive. Rail commuters may board in Barrington to arrive in the Loop in 45 minutes, and 75 minutes, local. Bus service is also available.