South Spring Ave, La Grange

I have lived in this neighborhood for over six years and I love it here. I swear the people are so warm and friendly that even though it's a fairly large city, as suburbs go, (population 15,608), it has a Mayberry quality about it. If you slip on the ice or fall off your bicycle, someone will be at your side to help you up and see how they can help before you fully realize you've fallen. I know that for sure.

It's a terrific place. And it's beautiful. Everyone who comes through remarks on that. It is full of restored Victorian homes with every detail perfectly replicated. Because it is an old, historic place, there are tall trees casting shade on nearly every street.

The Chicago Fire of 1871 caused many city dwellers to view it as safe retreat and a sanctuary. An influx of wealthy and middle-class Chicagoans made their way to LaGrange. By the end of the nineteenth century, the suburban trains reached the suburb and more found their way.

One of the reasons I choose to live here, besides the recently remodeled and well-stocked library, is the good public transportation system and the fact that everything is centrally located. There are not many places I need get to by walking or riding a bicycle. La Grange is only about 12 miles from downtown Chicago. You can hop on the train and be in the Loop in 15 minutes, which makes it a great place for business commuters.

It's a great place, but it's sure expensive to buy a home here. The median income is $67,670. If you make less, there are places to rent.

It feels safe here. There wasn't a murder nor a rape in 2008. People look out for each other.