Des Plaines

IL
Average Sales Price
$462,054
Median Sales Price
$399,000
Population
87,638
Total Listings
293
Discover Life in Des Plaines with Michael Kang
Local Perspective
If I were walking a client through Des Plaines, I’d point out how this suburb offers that rare blend of classic neighborhood charm and practical convenience, making it a standout option in the northwest corridor. Des Plaines often attracts those who want to be close to Chicago but crave more space and a sense of community. I’ve seen firsthand how its steady evolution—balancing established roots with new development—makes it appealing for a wide range of buyers. For clients who value both accessibility and a quieter, more settled environment, Des Plaines consistently comes up as a strong contender. My background in construction and renovation has also shown me how much potential many homes here have for customization, which is a big plus for those looking to put their own stamp on a property.
Neighborhood Highlights
Des Plaines has an inviting, lived-in feel—think tree-lined streets, well-kept parks, and a real sense of local pride. The downtown area has seen a refresh in recent years, with new restaurants and small businesses adding to the walkability and vibrancy, while the residential pockets remain distinctly quiet and family-friendly. What sets it apart from some of its busier neighbors is the balance between activity and calm; you’ll find community events and local festivals, but also plenty of peaceful corners for relaxation. The area is ideal for those who appreciate a suburban lifestyle with just enough urban energy to keep things interesting.
Homes & Architecture
You’ll notice a mix of classic mid-century ranches, sturdy brick bungalows, and split-levels—many of which have been updated over the years. There are also newer townhomes and low-rise condo buildings, especially closer to downtown and transit hubs. Most properties offer generous yards and mature landscaping, a rarity the closer you get to the city. Layouts are often practical, with open living spaces and functional basements that lend themselves to creative use, whether that’s a home office, rec room, or workshop. For buyers interested in renovation or customization, there’s plenty of opportunity here, and my experience in construction helps clients see the potential beyond the surface.

Demographics

Data provided by Attom Data
Population
Employment
Population
87.6K
87.6K in 2020
Density
4.1K
per square mile
Households
33.3K
30 With Children
Gender
49% / 51%
Men Vs Women
Occupancy
71% / 29%
Owned Vs Rented
Age Median: Years
Education Level

Educational Environment

Elementary Schools (27)Middle Schools (13)High Schools (6)
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
10/10
South Elementary School
1535 Everett Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Public
PK - 5
No
12:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
9/10
Iroquois Community School
1836 E Touhy Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Public
KG - 8
No
17:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
9/10
Central Elementary School
1526 E Thacker St, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Public
KG - 5
No
15:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
8/10
Cumberland Elementary School
700 E Golf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Public
PK - 5
No
9:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
8/10
Rosemont Elementary School
6101 Ruby St, Rosemont, IL 60018
Public
PK - 8
No
12:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
9/10
Iroquois Community School
1836 E Touhy Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Public
KG - 8
No
17:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
8/10
Rosemont Elementary School
6101 Ruby St, Rosemont, IL 60018
Public
PK - 8
No
12:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
7/10
Chippewa Middle School
123 N 8th Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Public
6 - 8
No
13:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
6/10
Friendship Jr High School
550 Elizabeth Ln, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Public
6 - 8
No
STUDENTS/TEACHERS
6/10
Algonquin Middle School
767 E Algonquin Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Public
6 - 8
No
14:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
8/10
Maine East High School
2601 Dempster St, Park Ridge, IL 60068
Public
9 - 12
No
15:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
8/10
Maine West High School
1755 S Wolf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Public
9 - 12
No
14:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Maryville Jen School
1150 N River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Private
7 - 12
Yes
4:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
The Willows Academy
1015 Rose Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Private
6 - 12
No
8:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Brentwood Baptist Christian Academy
588 Dara James Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Private
PK - 12
Yes
6:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Show More

Amenities & Attractions

Restaurants
Home Services
Health & Medical
Local Services
Shopping
Recreation
Arts & Entertainment
Food
Beauty
Nightlife
Event Planning & Services
Automotive
Religious Organizations
Financial Services
Professional Services
Travel
Local Media
Public Services & Government
Education
Pets
  • Taqueria Chelos

    935 E Oakton St, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Mexican Phone: 847-827-1330

  • Brown’s Chicken & Pasta

    1495 Elmhurst Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Chicken Wings Phone: 847-437-4567

  • Little Villa Restaurant & Pizzeria

    660 N Wolf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Italian Phone: 847-296-7763

  • Gigio’s Pizzeria & Restaurant

    1603 E Oakton St, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Pizza Phone: 847-298-5700

  • The Gyros Factory

    668 N Wolf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Hot Dogs Phone: 847-759-9114

  • Giuseppe’s La Cantina

    1062 Lee St, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Italian Phone: 847-824-4230

  • Potbelly Sandwich Shop

    2695 Mannheim Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Sandwiches Phone: 847-298-0628

  • Los Tamales Oaxaquenos

    782 W Oakton St, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Mexican Phone: 847-357-1644

  • Potbelly Sandwich Shop

    1506 Market St, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Sandwiches Phone: 847-297-5454

  • Rand Red Hots

    1441 Rand Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Hot Dogs Phone: 847-699-0606

  • McDonald’s

    1101 E Oakton St, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Burgers Phone: 847-297-5630

  • Freshii

    5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Salad

  • Tandoori Restaurant

    9344 W Ballard Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Indian Phone: 847-824-6550

  • Armando’s Pizza

    1591 Lee St, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Pizza Phone: 847-297-7772

  • Taqueria Tepa

    1916 Mannheim Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Mexican Phone: 847-375-8372

  • Plateia Mediterranean Kitchen - Bar

    9860 Milwaukee Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Bars Phone: 847-296-2230

  • Elliotts Off Broadway Deli

    1011 E Touhy Ave Ste 165, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Delis Phone: 847-299-7850

  • McDonald’s

    725 W Golf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Fast Food Phone: 847-439-6141

  • Chutney Janet

    1177 Elmhurst Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

    Phone: 847-593-3683

  • Elliot’s Off Broadway

    2340 S River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Delis Phone: 847-296-7822

  • Barnaby’s Family Inn

    636 E Touhy Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60018

    Pizza Phone: 847-297-8866

Des Plaines Living: Your Local Questions Answered

To help you make informed decisions, we've compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

What types of homes are common in Des Plaines?
Des Plaines offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and some condominiums. You’ll find classic mid-century houses as well as newer developments, making it a flexible area for many lifestyles and budgets.
How is the commute and connectivity from Des Plaines?
What’s the lifestyle and walkability like in Des Plaines?
How fast do homes typically sell in Des Plaines?
What should I know about schools in Des Plaines?
Are there HOA fees or special assessments to consider?

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