Photo of River Forest, IL
( 3 Ratings )

Living in River Forest, IL

River Forest Area Facts

  • River Forest has a Livability Score of 84/100, which is considered exceptional
  • River Forest crime rates are 25% lower than the Illinois average
  • Cost of living in River Forest is 60% higher than the Illinois average
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River Forest Reviews

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Safe, Vibrant Community User Rating 5 rating By Anonymous ( Sep 11, 2018) Lived here for twenty plus years--what a terrific place to raise a family! We moved here for the excellent schools, which are rated as some of the best in Illinois. Taxes are high, but you get what you pay for: safe, quiet, comfortable, beautiful homes, nice neighbors. It real ...Read More ly is the best of both worlds--a short commute from everything Chicago and environs has to offer, yet has a small town feel. I never once worried about my daughter walking from a friends house, even at night. There is a rich heritage--Native Americans had a meeting place on what is now the corner of Lake and Thatcher roads, and the nearby Des Plaines River was a rich source of sustenance for both natives and early settlers, who built many grand homes here, many of which still exist, lovingly maintained. The neighboring towns of Oak Park and Forest Park are rife with dining and cultural venues; Frank Lloyd Wright's home and studio is a cultural icon in Oak Park, as are many of the homes and buildings there. Transportation to downtown is easily accessible via the Metra, two el lines, or the expressway. The schools are excellent--expectations are high. Parks are awesome and abundant. The median income in River Forest is well above the national average, and there is a palpable sense of caring and community. If shopping is your thing, Oakbrook Mall is a short ride away, and downtown Oak Park has many shops and galleries, as well as entertainment (classic Art Deco movie theatre, Shakespeare in the Park!) and just about any kind of cuisine you could hope for, nom nom nom. Proud to call myself a River Forest resident! Read Less
River Forest, IL- City Review User Rating 5 rating By Anonymous ( May 23, 2018) I’ve lived in River Forest, IL City and had the most incredible experience. The city location is near the western limit of Chicago. The area is so beautiful, although the cost of living and property taxes might be high, there is many job opportunities, diverse restaurant, elega ...Read More nt houses, safe place for families with few crimes and very many friendly neighbours around. The city is welcoming, with a fascinating atmosphere.

If you are searching for a place with the most advanced education, then Rain Forest should probably be your number one choice. The quality of education is high in schools like St Luke and Fenwick high school and with an extraordinarily outstanding environment.

The best areas to visit is the excellent parks, historical places like the Oak Park. These areas provide a perfect place for your weekend gateway. The city has available small shops and other amenities. The city resident, most of them, live a luxurious lifestyle. If you are looking for a town with a competitive educational system and friendly people, then River Forest is the best choice. Read Less
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      B Amenities

      Are there many local amenities in River Forest? Yes, there are some amenities close to this location.

      Parks

      Forest & Augusta Triangle Park
      Centennial Park
      Swing
      Memorial Parkway
      Trailside Museum
      Keystone Park
      Quad
      Memorial Parkway

      Entertainment

      Hal Tyrrell Trailside Museum
      Circle Bowl
      Lake Theater
      Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
      Austin Gardens Environmental Education Center
      Maywood Fine Arts
      Maywood Fine Arts
      Ernest Hemingway Birthplace

      Food & Drink

      Panera Bread
      McDonald's
      Mickey's
      Alioto's Gift Shop
      Peterson's Ice Cream
      The Beacon
      Goldyburger's
      Boston Market

      A+ Commute

      Is public transit available in River Forest? Of all people who commute, 22.1% take public transportation in River Forest.
      Drive to Work
      51%

      25% lower than the US average

      Take Public Transit
      22%

      17% higher than the US average

      Walk to Work
      6%

      3% higher than the US average

      A+ Health & Safety

      Is River Forest a healthy and safe place to live? Yes, there are many hospitals, police and fire stations.

      Hospitals

      Pharmacies

      Walgreens
      CVS Pharmacy

      Doctors