Choosing a place to live can be one of the most exciting (and important) decisions you make in your life. It can influence how you raise a family, your career, your income, the quality of healthcare you receive, and possibly where you decide to settle in your golden years – each factor important in its own way.

 

Let's dive into why Naperville has been named one of the best places to live in America, and all the opportunities it has to offer through every stage of your life.

 

Is Naperville a good place to live?

 

Named as DuPage’s oldest community, and founded by Joseph Naper in 1831, Naperville was originally called “Naper’s Settlement”. By 1857,  “the Village of Naperville” was established with a population of 2000 and has continued to grow ever since. By 1864, a tollway and railway put this community on the map and was an important staple in the Illinois economy throughout the generations.  

 

Now Illinois’s 4th most populous city with 149,540 people according to the 2020 census, Naperville has become one of the best places to live in America and for good reason. Naperville is home to 2 nationally recognized public school systems, District 203 and District 204, a number of highly rated private schools, and North Central College, a staple in the Naperville community for over 125 years. Factor in the low crime rates, a steadily growing population, and easy access to Chicago, Naperville can be called a prestigious city ideal for families of all ages.

 

Is Naperville a good place to retire?

 

1. Great atmosphere with plenty of opportunity

 

Voted The Best City to Raise a Family in 2023, Naperville is a charming, energetic town with residents exuding a friendly and welcoming vibe. Whether you’re a young couple looking to start your family or an established resident who wants to retire near the family they’ve created, there is no better suburb to live your golden years.

With an hour drive into the city, you can enjoy the benefits of urban life, while returning to the quiet relaxation of the suburbs. The easily accessible downtown of Naperville is filled with delicious restaurants, lively bars, quaint coffee shops, and scenic parks.

For seniors, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved:

 

• Within a 15-mile radius there are 8 different community centers that offer plenty of senior programming.  
• Whether it’s the Naperville Library, Naperville Park District, The College of DuPage, or North Central College, there are plenty of opportunities to take classes and learn things that you never had time to commit to before. 
• Joseph and Sarah Levy Senior Center offers a packed calendar of opportunity to anyone 55 or older including art and exercise classes, ceramics, dancing, dinners and card games, shuffleboard, free movies and more. 

 

If you’ve always had a passion for music, flex your skills by joining the Senior Suburban Orchestra – a 50-piece orchestra drawing musician, primarily seniors, from more than 20 western suburbs and outlying areas.

 

2. Tax-friendly for Retirees

Though the cost of living in Naperville has increased over the years – even earning the title, “11th richest town in the US” – that doesn’t deter seniors from residing here. In fact, there are a few incentives for staying. 

First, Illinois is tax-friendly for retirees. Whether it be pensions, 401(k) plans or IRAs, or your Social Security benefits, Illinois doesn’t tax – leaving you more money in your pocket. This has proven to be a nice incentive to stay in an otherwise high-tax state and has kept the 65+ residents from moving out. In turn, seniors can maximize their benefits and the savings they’ve worked so hard to accumulate. 

Despite the high costs of real estate, Naperville has made an effort in helping retirees stay in their homes and live comfortably in the lifestyle they’re accustomed to.

Some of these real estate benefits programs include:

 

• Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption
• Senior Citizens’ Real Estate Tax Deferral
• Senior Citizens’ Homestead Exemption
• Reduction of assessed value based on appraisal

 

They also offer emergency financial assistance, income tax assistance, and plenty of other resources to aid in the needs of its retired and elderly population.

 

3. Statewide Access to Top Healthcare

Considering that healthcare is hands down the biggest need (and expense) in retirement, it’s always an important factor to consider when looking to settle down during your golden years.

Illinois offers some of the best healthcare in the country and if you live in or near Chicago, consider yourself lucky. The city is home to plenty of the nation’s top hospitals and in 2022, had 2 rank in the country’s top 20 by US News & World Report.

Chicago’s top hospitals include: 

• Northwestern Memorial Hospital
• Rush University Medical Center
• University of Chicago Medicine
• Advocate Christ Medical Center

 

Outside of healthcare quality, it’s important to think about these points when making the decision on where to reside:

 

• How close are nearby hospitals and ERs?
• What type of specialists do I need to access regularly?
• Are these healthcare systems reputable?
• Is there a good standard of care?

4. Low Crime

Despite Chicago’s violent crime rate being 164% higher than the national average, the low crime rate in Naperville makes it one of the most sought-after places to live for families, while maintaining close proximity to the city. 

Naperville has a crime rate that is 91% lower than the national average, falling into the 78th percentile for safety with the most common crimes being assault and theft. These statistics make an ideal setting for residents of all ages.

 

5. Good weather

Naperville’s typical Midwestern Humid Continental climate presents cold and snowy winters, humid springs, hot summers, and cool falls. Though there are several days of extreme hot and cold, the rest offer residents the opportunity to fully appreciate the plethora of forest preserves, lakes, rivers, parks, trails, shopping, and festivals. 

 

With the gorgeous landscape removed from the densely packed city and the benefit of having four distinct seasons, the seasonal weather makes it fun to explore and enjoy the great outdoors at all times of the year to appreciate all Naperville has to offer.

 

Three Areas to Know in the Naperville Area

Downtown

Naperville’s thriving downtown is recognized as one of the most popular destinations to visit and (places to live) in the Midwest. Centrally located and easily accessible from all areas of Naperville, downtown’s historic buildings set the backdrop to a rich history that dates back to the 1800’s and early 1900’s. Picturesque in nature, visit one of the 150+ shops, dine in the 50+ restaurants, take a stroll down the historic Riverwalk, or catch one of the plethora of festivals and events going on year round. Some must see spots include:

• The Naperville Riverwalk:
  Known as the Crown Jewel of Naperville, the 2-mile Riverwalk is visited by travelers near and far, eager to unwind and reflect. Stroll the brick paved winding paths and discover covered bridges, fountains, landscaping, sculptures, and distinctive shepherd's crook light poles that serve as a connection to Naperville’s historic past. After, get comfy riverside at one of the 32 delicious restaurant options, many with a great view of the river.
  
  

  The Riverwalk

• Naper Settlement: Naperville’s rich history is on full display in the heart of downtown with an outdoor 12 acre museum preserving, celebrating, and showcasing Naperville’s past from its founding in the 19th century up to present day.  With “villagers” in costume, plenty of special exhibits, historic buildings, and artifacts, residents and visitors can appreciate a proud town in all its glory.

North of 75th Street

• Attractions
  • Centennial Beach: A historic stone quarry, set within a 6-acre park, has 2 full acres of open water originally sourced from Lake Michigan. This gem has served as a “swimming hole” for residents and guests for generations. Complete with sand, a grassy area for picnicking, a small water slide, water play features, diving boards and more, it’s the place to be on those hot summer Naperville days.
  • Morton Arboretum: Loved by residents and visitors alike, this outdoor museum is set on 1,700 acres and home to more than 4,000 plant species. This spot is perfect for outdoor recreation such as hiking, driving, and cycling trails, an interactive garden for kids, and even a maze to explore.
    
• Neighborhoods
  • Murdock Estates
  • Hobson Meadows
  • Cress Creek Commons
  • Laura Court
  • Barclay Manor
  • Kings Terrace
  • Olesen Estates
  • Deepwood
  • Oak Hills
  • Fairway of Country Lakes
  • Fairmeadow
  • East Highlands
  • Lakewood Crossing
  • Woods of River Valley
  • Knoll of Huntington

South of 75th Street

• Attractions
  • Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve: Located 3.35 miles away from downtown and on 2,000 acres of land, the Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve is a grassland bird community home to several significant species. With many types of trails to explore, this preserve is the perfect spot to walk, cycle, dog-walk, and even horseback ride. 
  • Moser Tower & Millennium Carillon: Constructed in 1999 to commemorate the 3rd millennium and the 21st century, this staple is 160 ft tall and contains 62 bells. It’s said to be one of the four largest structures in the US.
    
    

    Moser Tower & Millennium Carillon

• Neighborhoods
  • White Eagle
  • Rivercrest Estate
  • Royce Club
  • Hidden Valley Lake Estates
  • Country View Estates
  • Crestwood Knolls
  • Heatherstone
  • Riverrun
  • Ashbury
  • Springbrook Heights
  • Tall Grass
  • Wind Ridge
  • Washington Woods
  • River Oaks
  • Summer Field

Though everyone’s idea of what they want out of their community and eventual retirement are different, it’s always important to consider factors in each stage of your life to make the most out of your golden years. As you settle into and make those important decisions about your investment management, retirement planning, or any other financial needs, don’t hesitate to send us an email or give us a call with any questions you have.

 

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