This lovely Chicago suburb offers the best of both worlds: a friendly community and modern conveniences. Its welcoming town has 35,266 residents.

Residents love the 117 trails that cover 4,819 miles of scenic routes. The town hosts the Midwest’s biggest sanctioned BBQ competition and draws 35,000 people to its annual Taste of Westmont festival. The crime rate stays well below the national average, and commuters appreciate the quick 26-minute average travel time. Westmont is great for families who care about safety. It’s also ideal for professionals seeking work-life balance.

This piece covers everything about your potential new home in Westmont. You’ll learn about excellent schools, family activities throughout the year, senior living options, and community events that make this suburb unique.

What Makes Westmont Special: Location and Community

The Village of Westmont lies 22 miles west of downtown Chicago, creating a perfect gateway between urban excitement and suburban tranquility. Westmont, IL, residents enjoy the unique advantage of living in the greater Chicago area’s geographical heart. This strategic position inspired the village’s motto: “In the Middle of It All.”

Strategic location between Chicago and the suburbs

The village got its name from being the highest elevation west of Chicago along the railroad. This six-square-mile community in southeastern DuPage County offers small-town charm. You also get easy access to big-city amenities. Major transportation corridors surround Westmont. To the north is Interstate 88. I-55 lies to the south. To the east, you’ll find I-294, and I-355 is to the west. This network ensures smooth connectivity throughout the Chicago region.

Community demographics and neighborhood vibes

The village’s demographics showcase a multicultural community of 64% White and non-Hispanic, 13% Asian, 6% Black, and 13% Hispanic or Latino. The median age is 40.6 years, reflecting a balanced mix of generations and views.

Families are the foundations of Westmont—60.4 % of households are families. The housing landscape shows a balanced mix of homeowners (55%) and renters, with a median property value of $369,100. This combination creates established neighborhoods with diverse housing options.

Transportation options for commuters

Westmont offers commuters multiple transit choices. The Metra station on the BNSF Railway Line operates daily from Aurora to Chicago’s Union Station and offers 512 parking spaces. Pace suburban bus service, especially Route 715, links residents to nearby communities. Westmont residents enjoy a quick 25.8-minute mean commute time—substantially better than regional averages.

Top-Rated Schools in Westmont, IL, for Your Children

Educational quality usually tops the priority list when families choose their new homes. Westmont residents can choose from several excellent schools. These schools provide a rigorous academic curriculum and maintain a strong connection with the community.

Public school options and ratings

Westmont High School is the crown jewel of local education. It ranks 45th among Illinois high schools and boasts a 97% graduation rate. US News ranked it #1,028, which earned it national recognition. Many students benefit from Advanced Placement courses, and 59% enroll in these challenging classes.

Younger students thrive at Maercker Elementary School (grades 3-5). The school earned a solid 7/10 GreatSchools rating, standing at 373rd among 2,067 Illinois elementary schools. J.T. Manning Elementary School achieved a 6/10 rating and ranks 202nd statewide.

Private and alternative education choices

Holy Trinity is a faith-based option that emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence. Students here learn “to enter and thrive in the global community through enriched learning.”

Maya Angelou Alternative High School offers specialized programs that meet diverse learning needs. Through mutually beneficial alliances with DuPage College, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago, students can prepare for the GED and gain vocational skills.

After-school programs and enrichment opportunities

Manning Elementary’s Westmont Kids Club provides detailed after-school care until 6:00 p.m. Students receive homework help, play board games, make crafts, enjoy gym activities, and celebrate special events like holiday parties. Holy Trinity’s Extended Care costs $5 per hour for registered families.

Parent involvement and school community

Parents can shape educational policies through the School Site Council (SSC) and the English Language Advisory Committee (ELAC). The “Community Talks: WJHS” program connects students with community members to tackle local challenges. The Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee provides feedback on multilingual programs.

The school-family bond grows stronger through parent-teacher conferences, Back-to-School nights, and workshops. These sessions cover everything from homework strategies to cyber safety. This relaxed yet engaged approach makes education a shared journey in this close-knit community.

Living in Westmont IL: A Day in the Life

Life in Westmont offers the best of everything. This Chicago suburb provides residents with the perfect mix of easy living, great food, and a strong sense of community.

Morning commute experiences

Westmont’s central location makes starting your workday a breeze. The Metra station on the BNSF Railway runs reliable daily trains between Aurora and Chicago’s Union Station. The city is just a train ride away, lasting 50-55 minutes. Commuters prefer this reliable schedule over highway traffic. Westmont residents enjoy quick commutes that average 25.8 minutes less than those in nearby areas.

“The atmosphere on the train is highly productive,” many residents say, as they use this time to read, work, or just unwind after a busy day. Drivers love how Westmont is quickly connected to major highways, including Interstates 88, 55, 294, and 355.

Local shopping and dining scenes

Downtown Westmont draws people in with its unique shops and food spots. The beautiful Ty Warner Park and the one-of-a-kind Muddy Waters Exhibit add to its charm.

Food lovers call Westmont a hidden gem, with over 90 restaurants serving everything from comfort food to fancy dishes. Whiskey Hill Brewing & Kitchen pairs award-winning craft beer with fresh-made food. Taurasi serves excellent Italian dishes that earned a stellar 4.8/5 rating from happy diners. Local favorites like Uncle Bub’s BBQ, Neat Kitchen + Bar, and Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen rank among the area’s best places to eat.

Evening and weekend entertainment options

Westmont comes alive at night with plenty to do. The village hosts community events year-round, including the popular Cruisin’ Nights and Street Fair on summer Thursday nights. Food lovers flock to the Taste of Westmont Festival in July, while the Wicked West Fest lights up October with costume contests and spooky trails.

The nightlife scene has something for everyone. You can grab a drink at the casual Pot Belly bar or sample craft brews at Whiskey Hill Brewing. Live music, comedy shows, and dance clubs also add to the mix. Chicago’s fantastic entertainment scene is just a quick train ride away.

Senior Living in Westmont, IL: Options and Amenities

Westmont provides excellent care and social connections for seniors. It offers solid retirement options and strong community support.

Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities

Cordia Senior Residence features 116 studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments for independent and assisted living residents. The monthly fee covers meals, weekly housekeeping, linen service, scheduled transportation, and access to various programs. Assisted living residents receive extra support with daily activities.

Sunrise of Westmont offers customized senior care and amenities like exercise rooms, a salon, and a movie theater. This pet-friendly community is just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago. Residents enjoy bright living spaces, peaceful outdoor courtyards, and programs tailored to their interests.

Seniors needing memory care can turn to The Birches in nearby Clarendon Hills. The facility supports residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia and helps them live fulfilling lives in a safe and caring environment.

Senior-focused activities and programs

The Westmont Park District welcomes seniors over 55 to its active community. The Senior Center is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and offers engaging activities at minimal cost.

Members can enjoy watercolor classes, Tai Chi, Ageless Grace chair fitness, and pickleball.

The center buzzes with:

• educational speakers
• special occasion parties
• monthly birthday celebrations
• movies
• card games

Music lovers gather at the Sunshine Singers every Tuesday from 1:00-2:00 PM.

Active seniors can join the Golf League at Twin Lakes from April through September or hit the lanes with the Bowling League at Suburbanite Bowl from September through April.

Healthcare access for older residents

BRIA of Westmont delivers complete medical services with 24-hour nursing care, specialized therapies, cardiac programs, orthopedic rehabilitation, and on-site hemodialysis.

Burgess Square Healthcare & Rehab Center blends clinical excellence with compassionate care in a homelike setting.

The DuPage Senior Citizens Council runs essential programs like Meals on Wheels, Friendly Phone Calls, Well-Being Checks, and minor home repairs.

Age-friendly community initiatives

Westmont takes pride in being a dementia-friendly community. Dementia Friendly Westmont aims to raise awareness and reduce stigma. It shares resources and strengthens support for those living with dementia. Education and coordination are key to its mission.

The Westmont Public Library actively supports residents affected by dementia. Its ongoing programs highlight relevant topics, and its Memory Cafe provides a safe, welcoming space for people with dementia and their caregivers to connect.

Year-Round Activities in Westmont, IL for Families

Westmont, IL, offers fun activities all year. Families can enjoy something for everyone, regardless of age or interest.

Seasonal festivals and community events

The village buzzes with exciting events throughout the year.

Memorial Day weekend’s Red, White, and BBQ Festival showcases the Midwest’s premier BBQ competition and the Race to the Flag 5K.

Downtown Westmont comes alive with Cruisin’ Nights and a Street Fair every Thursday during summer, while the Independence Day Celebration lights up Ty Warner Park.

The village turns into a spooky wonderland for October’s Wicked West Fest. Visitors can enjoy costume contests, a Trick-or-Treating Trail, the Pumpkin Smashing Extravaganza, and fun Casket Races.

The winter spirit shines through December’s Holly Days Festival, which features the charming Frosty & Friends Parade, tree-lighting ceremonies, and the Ugly Sweater 5K.

Parks and outdoor recreation spaces

The village’s 22 parks cover more than 150 acres. Ty Warner Park is a central hub. It features a spray park, playground, fishing spots, a disc golf course, and a popular sledding hill. Veterans Memorial Park has excellent amenities. You’ll find a picnic shelter, baseball fields, and volleyball courts. There’s also a zipline for kids aged 5 to 10. Nature lovers can enjoy Hidden Lake Forest Preserve. It has clean trails, great fishing spots, and places to see wildlife. Plus, it’s only a few minutes away.

Indoor entertainment venues

Bad weather won’t stop the fun.

Sky Zone trampoline park’s Glow Nights light up every Friday and Saturday from 8-10 PM, with great birthday party packages.

Westmont Yard Sports Complex boasts state-of-the-art athletic facilities, sports programs, after-school activities, and childcare services. Families can also enjoy bowling alleys, game centers, and the nearby Enchanted Castle amusement center.

Family dining favorites

Westmont’s family restaurants serve something for everyone. Uncle Bub’s BBQ draws crowds with its outstanding mac and cheese and cornbread. Papa Passero’s Pizzeria serves Italian favorites in a welcoming atmosphere, while Standard Market Grill appeals to health-conscious families. Perry’s Steakhouse at Oakbrook Center creates memorable celebrations with impressive tableside presentations.

Living in Westmont, IL

Westmont welcomes families with open arms and endless possibilities. This lovely Chicago suburb lives up to its motto, “In the Middle of It All.” It mixes city convenience with small-town charm. Your family can grow here. Enjoy great schools, fun activities, and strong community ties.

Westmont High School ranks among Illinois’ top 45 schools, giving your children a strong foundation for success. The average commute takes just 26 minutes, and entertainment options abound. Seasonal festivals bring the community to life, and 22 parks provide outdoor fun all year.

Seniors feel right at home in Westmont. Quality care facilities like Cordia Senior Residence and robust community support programs cater to older residents’ needs. The village’s efforts to create a dementia-friendly environment show its care for residents at every life stage.

Looking to call Westmont home? The Chicago Property Sisters will help you find your ideal property in this welcoming community. Westmont is a great place for families. It has safe neighborhoods, affordable homes, and rich cultural experiences. You’ll love putting down roots here.