Illinois is home to a diverse array of communities, but when it comes to wealth, a select few stand out for their extraordinary affluence. Recent data and studies have revealed which locales top the list as the richest in the state, measured by average and median household income, property values, and overall economic status.
This article delves into the details of Illinois’ richest town, highlighting the latest statistics and what sets it apart from the rest.
The Richest Town in Illinois: Winnetka
Winnetka, located in Cook County along Chicago’s North Shore, has been named the richest town in Illinois according to the most recent data. As of 2023, Winnetka boasts an average household income of $457,404 and a median income of $250,001, with a population of 12,292.
These figures place Winnetka at the top among Illinois towns with at least 5,000 residents, reflecting both widespread affluence and a robust local economy.
“According to a list compiled by 24/7 Wall St., the richest town in Illinois is Winnetka. This locale has a median home value of $1,192,600 and residents make an average of $458,988 per year.”
Key Economic Indicators
| Town | County | Population | Average Income | Median Income | Median Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winnetka | Cook | 12,292 | $457,404 | $250,001 | $1,192,600 |
| Kenilworth | Cook | 2,401 | $460,411 | $250,001 | (Not listed) |
| Kildeer | Lake | ~4,000 | $293,384 | $226,375 | $887,000 |
Winnetka leads for towns over 5,000 residents.
Kenilworth has a slightly higher average income but a smaller population.
Kildeer is recognized as the wealthiest “small town” in Illinois, with a median income of $226,375 and a population nearing 4,000.
What Makes Winnetka Unique?
Several factors contribute to Winnetka’s status:
High Property Values: The median home value in Winnetka is approximately $1,192,600, reflecting the exclusivity of the area and the wealth of its residents.
Luxurious Amenities: Residents enjoy access to top-rated schools, upscale shopping, and proximity to Lake Michigan.
Historic and Natural Beauty: Winnetka is known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and scenic lakefront parks.
Other Notable Affluent Towns
While Winnetka tops the list, other Illinois towns also display significant wealth:
Kenilworth: Highest average income but a much smaller population.
Glencoe, Hinsdale, Bannockburn, and Lake Forest: All feature average household incomes well above $300,000.
Kildeer: Named the richest small town, with a rural setting and high-end custom homes.
Conclusion
Winnetka stands as the richest town in Illinois, distinguished by its high average and median household incomes, exceptional property values, and a reputation for luxury and exclusivity.
While other towns such as Kenilworth and Kildeer also rank highly—especially in their respective population categories—Winnetka’s combination of size, affluence, and amenities make it the standout locale for wealth in the state as of the latest 2023-2025 data.
Source:
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