Often nicknamed “The Gem of the Fox River Valley,” the village of Algonquin is northwest of downtown Chicago. For much of the 20th century, Algonquin served as a retreat for Chicago residents to escape city life. They were attracted to recreation on the Fox River, and several summer homes were built. Over the years, though the village has grown, the suburb, with a population of just under 30,000, remains a change of pace from Chicago and much of the metro area. “It’s a small, river town, and the government here has a large budget and is not afraid to spend it to improve the quality of life,” says Jeff Padesky, Realtor and team lead at the JP Group in Algonquin. “Your tax dollars are well-spent here.”
The village of Algonquin is northwest of downtown Chicago, IL.
Enjoy the serenity that is Algonquin.
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Revitalized downtown Algonquin
The downtown district of Algonquin, commonly called Old Town, characterizes the small-town vibe. Old Town is filled with locally owned shops and restaurants along the river. The village recently invested millions of dollars, including sprucing up the buildings, improving the sidewalks and providing better public parking options. The other central retail section is on Randall Road. “Algonquin has a cute little downtown, but its retail sector on Randall Road has boomed. I think that’s also a draw to the area,” says Rhonda Starr, a broker with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate. Algonquin Commons opened in 2004 and is anchored by DSW Warehouse and Old Navy. The Algonquin Galleria Center is another small shopping center on Randall Road. There isn’t as much development on the east side of the river in Algonquin. “That’s slowly improving, though,” Padesky says.
Downtown Algonquin is a charming place to both shop and eat local.
Algonquin locals enjoy a hearty breakfast at Short Stacks in the heart of the downtown area.
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Algonquin home prices are near the national average
Algonquin's late 2024 median home price was $413,000, $7,000 below the national figure. In Huntley, the neighboring suburb to the west, the cost is around $404,000 and in nearby Carpentersville, it’s around $265,000. Housing is a lot less than that of other northwest suburbs. “I know people who live in Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates and Palatine in million-dollar houses,” Padesky says. “I tell them you can get the same house in Algonquin for $400,000.” Condos and townhouses are also scattered throughout the village. “There’s not as much development east of the river, and the houses are generally older,” he adds. That’s the case in neighborhoods like Algonquin Heights. According to the First Street website, some houses close to the Fox River are in a moderate to severe flood zone.
FBI crime data indicates that rates of reported property and violent crimes were below state and national averages in 2023.
Rows of townhomes are situated along the waterfront view of Algonquin.
Some older victorian style homes line the streets in Algonquin near town.
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Algonquin Founders’ Days
For four days in July, the community gets together at Ted Spella Community Park for live music, a parade and food during Algonquin Founders’ Days. In early December, the Christmas season kicks off with Miracle on Main with the lighting of the village tree. Old Town is decorated for the season, and there are live reindeer. Kid-themed concerts are held in various locations from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays during summer break.
Carolers in Victorian attire serenade visitors with festive tunes at Miracle On Main 2024
A live reindeer charms visitors, spreading holiday magic at Miracle on Main 2024.
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Three downtown parks in Algonquin
Two downtown parks in Algonquin are right by the river. Riverfront Park offers an opportunity to watch boats on the water. It’s also the site of Thursday evening outdoor concerts in the summer. Cornish Park features an iconic clock tower welcoming visitors. Other features include a gazebo, playground, picnic area, and benches with a view of the river. Towne Park is a block west of the river, undergoing an extensive renovation that should be ready by the summer of 2025. Additions will include an expansion of the playground and a bandshell for outdoor concerts.
A fishing enthusiast enjoys a balmy fall day at Cornish Park.
Towne Park is located in Algonquin, IL and has a large playground, gazebo, and fields.
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Randall Road is the dividing line between two school districts
Public school students who live east of Randall Road attend schools as part of Community Unit School District 300, rated an A-minus on Niche. There are six elementary schools, one K-8 and two middle schools. Those living west of the river attend Harry Jacobs High School, rated an A-minus, while those east generally attend Dundee-Crown High School. That school receives a B. Consolidated School District 158 serves far western Algonquin and is rated an A. The district has a grade K-2 and a 3-5 elementary school, a middle school and one high school. Private options include K-8 students served at St. Margaret Mary Catholic School.
Harry D Jacobs High Shcool is highly rated in Algonquin.
Dundee-Crown High School is located in Carpentersville, IL.
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Take the Pace bus to the Metra station
Public transportation is limited within Algonquin, but the Pace suburban bus line has stops on Randall Road. The 550 Route connects Elgin to the south with Crystal Lake to the north. The bus line stops at the Crystal Lake Metra commuter rail station, with about a 90-minute trip to the Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago.
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