Moving to Barrington: 

The Complete Local Guide for 2026

If you're considering a move to Barrington, Illinois, or one of the Villages included in what we call the Barrington Area, you are not alone! As a real estate broker who has spent nearly two decades helping families buy and sell homes throughout Barrington and the surrounding communities, I have had the honor and absolute privilege of placing hundreds of clients and seeing them through their transition to this remarkable area. One of the things I hear most often from buyers seeking to become new residents is: 

"We had no idea Barrington would feel so different from anywhere else we have been in the Chicago suburbs. It's an opportunity to create an idyllic life in the country while staying connected to the city. It truly is a dream!"

Often when referencing Barrington, Illinois, buyers are unaware that Barrington is only one Village included in what is called the Barrington Area, which encompasses seven different and distinct Villages, approximately 95 square miles of unique glacial landscape, and is located within the Fox River ecosystem. No where else can you find an offering of something so increasingly rare: a true sense of community, many unique lifestyle choices for types of homes and properties, expansive land, rolling terrain, a historic river, many lakes, and beautiful natural preserves. 

Barrington Community Unit School District 220 consists of eight elementary schools, two middle school campuses and one high school, as well as an early childhood learning center and serves all seven villages. It is a highly regarded school district, and many buyers with school aged children have done their research ahead of time which brings them to seek out the opportunities and programs offered in the schools here. 

We have a quaint and charming downtown district, and are proud to say we are home to the largest protected area of Vintage homes in the State of Illinois. We have homes that provide space for large or multi-generational families, large acreage that offers privacy and opportunities to keep your horses, goats and chickens on your own land, and homes that exude the epitome of timeless American character.

Whether you're relocating from the City of Chicago, moving here from another suburb, considering a cross country move for business, or coming from another state in order to be closer to family, here are a few things you should know before making the decision to call Barrington home.

Where Is Barrington?

Barrington is located approximately 40 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, and is often ranked on a list of the most desirable communities to live in the northwest suburbs. The Barrington Area includes several distinct communities and is comprised of the following towns:

• Barrington

• Barrington Hills

• South Barrington

• North Barrington

• Lake Barrington

• Tower Lakes 

• Deer Park 

While not technically part of the Barrington Area, you will find homes located in Inverness which are part of the Barrington School District, and benefit from access to many of the Barrington Area amenities. 

Together, these communities create what many residents simply refer to as the “Barrington Area." The Village of Barrington sits in the middle of these seven Villages, and offers convenient access to Interstate Highway 90 connecting us to Chicago or Rockford, just minutes to the Wisconsin border, is a quick ride to O'Hare International Airport, and offers a direct run to downtown Chicago’s Ogilvie Station via the Barrington stop on Metra's Union Pacific Northwest Line. For professionals who work in the city but want more space and a quieter lifestyle, Barrington provides an attractive balance, and the added benefit of express trains to and from the city are another great perk for consideration. 

What Makes Barrington Different?

There are many beautiful suburbs around Chicago, but Barrington has a character all its own. Unlike many newer suburban developments, Barrington dates back to the 1860’s and has retained much of its historic charm while continuing to evolve. Many residents describe the Barrington Area as offering a small-town feel with sophisticated amenities. It's one of the few places where you can enjoy living minutes to a charming downtown, attend local community events, visit a summer farmer’s market, and be within great proximity for commuting to and from Chicago.

You'll find:

• Tree-lined streets 

• Historic Homes

• Equestrian Properties

• Luxury Estates

• Excellent Proximity to Downtown Barrington

• Independent Restaurants and Boutiques

• Preserved Open Spaces and Forest Preserves

Barrington Schools

For many families, schools are one of the primary reasons for moving to Barrington. The area is served primarily by Barrington Community Unit School District 220, which has earned a strong reputation for academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, athletics, music, arts programs, and college preparation. Barrington Community Unit School District 220 ranks among the top performing schools in the Chicagoland area, and across the country! 

Families relocating to the area often tell me that the school district had played a significant role in their decision to find a home here. An important thing to note is that not every home with a Barrington mailing address falls within the District 220 school boundary lines. Understanding school boundaries, and knowing about the associated streets to each school in the community is an important part of the home search process, and something I help buyers navigate regularly. 

Seven Villages, What Types of Homes Are Available?

One of the things buyers appreciate most about the Barrington Area is the variety of housing options and lifestyles that are available. Depending on your goals, there is something here for everyone and I assure you will find each of the seven Villages quite unique in their own ways! Here is an overview of each Village to help give you some reference points: 

Barrington:

The Village of Barrington is home to a notable Historic District within steps to its downtown, and is featured on the National Register of Historic Places. This architecturally important area is home to one of the largest frame-home districts located within the State of Illinois. Featuring many styles of distinct architecture including Craftsman, Folk, Victorian as well as several stunning Queen Anne homes which line the streets of the town. Sprinkled throughout, you will also find other styles of homes that were common to early Americana architecture, including mid-Century homes, and later the re-berth of the center entry Colonial, popular in the then, new construction neighborhoods, built circa 1970’s - 1980’s. The history of the Barrington Area dates back to the 1830’s while having been incorporated in the 1860’s, it has become sought after for buyers seeking charming vintage style homes on smaller lots with tree lined streets, while offering good proximity to and easy access for commuting to the city on the Metra. Home styles you might find in the Village of Barrington include:

• Vintage Victorians 

• Historic Farmhouses

• Traditional Colonial Style Homes

• Luxury Townhomes

• Fully Remodeled & Expanded Vintage Homes 

• Charming Subdivisions 

Barrington Hills:

One of the most distinctive communities in the Chicagoland arena, the Village of Barrington Hills has been better known as an idyllic “Horse Country” environment featuring large acreage suitable for the equestrian. Barrington Hills encompasses nearly 30 square miles, touches 4 counties, boasts miles of horse riding trails, and is home to several very important top non-profit groups and organizations. Home to Citizens for Conservation, a local non-profit group located in Barrington Hills, they have led the initiative to protect over 3200 acres of public land in the Barrington, Illinois area. The restoration work they do helps to protect and perpetuate the diverse indigenous species of plants and animals that give our communities their special value, making a significant impact for generations to come. The lifestyle in the Village of Barrington Hills is known for:

• Country Living on 5+ Acre Properties

• Miles of Horseback Riding Trails 

• Equestrian Estate Homes

• Small Farmettes 

• Outdoor Lifestyle

• Scenic, Winding Roads and Rolling Landscape

South Barrington:

South Barrington offers the enjoyment of country charm and expansive green space which encompasses 43 private lakes and ponds and home to 35 subdivisions. As a member of the Greenest Region Corps., it has been recognized with the SolSmart Gold designation, as South Barrington has worked hard to become one of the top Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) municipalities in the United States on green energy. South Barrington is also home to The Arboretum, an outdoor oasis of boutique shops and independent restaurants, as well as community events throughout the year including outdoor concerts throughout the summer. Well known for pumpkin picking in the Fall, South Barrington’s Goebbert’s Farm, Family Owned since 1948, is open year ‘round, and host to many enjoyable experiences for the entire family. 

• Large Estate Style Homes 

• Luxury Home Subdivisions

• New Construction & Gated Communities 

• Local Shopping & Dining: The Arboretum of South Barrington 

• Goebbert’s Pumpkin Farm Garden Center

North Barrington and Lake Barrington:

North Barrington is home to two prestigious golf courses, The Club at Wynstone, A Jack Nicklaus Golf Community and the historic Biltmore Country Club on Honey Lake. Many people move to this area in order to experience the lifestyle of these 2 distinctly different neighborhoods; one built back in the 1920’s and one built as a gated community in the late 1980’s. An amazing opportunity to own a home on a golf course, or on a charming pond or lake. Or, if you are fortunate enough, you may even find one of a handful of gorgeous homes aligning the banks of the Fox River in Lake Barrington. Miles of walking trails and over 860 acres of beautiful  nature preserves, as well as a public marina offering easy access for boat lovers!    

• Nature Preserves 

• Golf Communities

• Waterfront Homes on the Fox River 

• Lakefront Homes

• Quiet Residential Settings 

Tower Lakes:

While first developed in the 1920’s as a small resort type community when the 70-acre Brooks/Paddock farm (at the corner of Barrington Rd. & Indian Trail) was purchased, by the 1940’s people came to realize how special this community was and the Village of Tower Lakes became a year round lifestyle, and later was incorporated in 1966. Today, neighbors enjoy so much about living in Tower Lakes, especially the many year round events with highlights including winter skating on the lake, springtime’s Progressive Dinner, our days-long Fourth of July celebration at the beach, and a Chili Cook-Off in the fall! 

• Charming Vintage Cottages 

• Many Lakefront Homes 

• Re-modeled Homes 

• Unique HOA Offerings 

Deer Park: 

Once a small farming village, Deer Park has become a vibrant mix of suburban neighborhoods, parks, and open green spaces, and prides itself on the preservation of its history. Deer Park serves both Barrington Community Unit School District 200 and Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95, and is home to one of only two preserved centennial farms in Lake County. The Vehe Farm encompasses 15 acres and both the farmhouse and the barn have been restored and meticulously preserved with care over the last 15-20 years. It serves as Deer Park’s Village Hall, boasts a beautiful community center filled with history for all to enjoy, and a full nature restoration of the grounds with native plants and walking paths. Another highlight of the Village is the Deer Park Mall, an outdoor boutique shopping and independent dining experience!  

• Subdivision Living 

• Larger Homes on 1+ Acre Lots 

• Nature & Waterfront Homes 

• Convenient Proximity to Shops & Dining

• Easy Access to Route 12 & Route 53 

Lifestyle in Barrington

No matter your budget or lifestyle, there are opportunities to find a home that feels uniquely suited to your needs. People don't just move to Barrington for a new home, they move here for the lifestyle! Local residents enjoy:

• Local Farmer’s Markets

• Community Events, Parades & Festivals

• Outdoor Concerts

• Nature Trails & Forest Preserves

• Horse Riding Trails

• Golf Courses 

• Country Clubs - Barrington Hills, Biltmore & Wynstone 

• Boutique Shopping  

• Independent Restaurants & Coffee Shops

Commuting From Barrington

Some of the most important ways commuters determine where to live is by researching ease for transportation to work. Many residents commute from Barrington to Chicago, Schaumburg, Oak Brook, Rosemont, and other employment centers throughout the region. Did you know there are several “Express” trains every day that run from Barrington to Chicago in the morning and back out at the end of the day? Whether you are an “in the office Monday to Friday” or work on a hybrid schedule, the express train schedule can save you a tremendous amount of time getting to and from work in the City. While commute times can vary depending on one’s destination, I have seen many professionals find Barrington's quality of life absolutely worth the drive or the train ride to get to work. In the Barrington area we have several options for commuters which include:

• Metra - Union Pacific Northwest Train Line to Ogilvie Station 

• Interstate 90 - Access at Roselle Rd., Barrington Road & Route 59 

• Route 53 - Schaumburg & Route 355 to Wheaton or Elmhurst 

• Route 59 & Route 12 - North to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin or South to Naperville 

• Convenient Access to O'Hare International Airport 

Is Barrington a Good Place to Raise a Family?

In my personal experience, deciding on where to raise a family has been a big reason why people choose to call the Barrington Area home. Personally, we raised our family here. And, to that end, as a mother of four daughters, I can confidently say, yes, it has been a great place to raise my own family! As a licensed Realtor, however, it is my responsibility to direct you to available resources for you to access information online that exists about the schools in order to formulate your own opinions. I have seen the following reasons as some of the highlights to why people choose Barrington to raise their children. This area provides opportunities for children to grow up with a strong connection to both nature and community.

Families are drawn to:

• Award Winning Schools

• Community & Cultural Events 

• Youth Educational Programs & Sports 

• Parks and Recreation

• Beautiful Neighborhoods

• Outdoor Spaces & Activities

• Local Events & Happenings 

Things Every Buyer Should Know Before Moving to Barrington

Every community has its unique characteristics. Spending time educating buyers with a local perspective will make a significant impact when evaluating different neighborhoods and specific homes. For Barrington, I encourage buyers to understand:

• School District Boundaries

• Property Taxes & Community Programs

• Living with Septic & Well vs. City Sewer & Water 

• Neighborhoods w/HOA Rules & Regulations

• Commute Times & Options 

• Future Development & Planning

Why So Many Buyers Fall in Love With Barrington

After helping hundreds of families over the years move here, I've noticed something very interesting. People often begin their search not knowing the landscape of this special area, and throughout our time together touring homes they start out thinking they are just looking for a house to buy. However, in short order, they begin to realize how amazing this community is and end up falling in love with the lifestyle and all that the Barrington Area has to offer! 

Barrington offers a combination of beautiful nature preserves and green space, a community filled with culture, recreation, fabulous shops and great locally owned eateries, convenience for commuters, and a very charming lifestyle filled with small town character that is increasingly difficult to find. It's why many residents who move here choose to stay for decades…and it’s incredible to watch their children’s children becoming the next generation of Barringtonites!

Thinking About Moving to Barrington?

Whether you're relocating from Chicago, another suburb, or coming from out of state, I'd be thrilled to help you explore this area! Part of your journey will be learning about the nuances of the Barrington area so you can determine which neighborhoods best fit the lifestyle you are looking for. As Team Lead of the Tara Kelleher Team at @properties Christie's International Real Estate, I've spent nearly 20 years helping buyers and sellers navigate the Barrington market, and beyond. If you're considering a move, I'd love to be this important resource for you highlighting local insights, touring area neighborhoods, and how each opportunity can work to align with your goals for finding your perfect place to call home! 

Let’s talk soon to make a plan, and together we will start the journey for your upcoming home search to find your new home in Barrington! - Tara 

Written by - Tara Kelleher

Real Estate Broker & Team Lead 

Tara Kelleher Team | @properties Christie’s International Real Estate