Whether you’re moving to Naperville for a new job, attending university, retiring, or simply getting a fresh start, Illinois’s fourth-largest metropolis will surely leave you speechless. With beautiful parks, prosperous businesses, top-tier public and private schools, and safe, welcoming communities, this thriving city indeed has plenty to offer. But how to choose the right Naperville neighborhood with many great options available? Each has its unique flavor thanks to its special blend of big-city amenities and small-town friendliness and charm. So before you reach out to a knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent and start looking for your new home, here’s how to choose a Naperville neighborhood that’s perfect for you.
What to consider in order to choose the right Naperville neighborhood?
Moving and looking for a new home is surely exciting but, at the same time, quite a stressful and overwhelming experience. Experts at meyersmovers.com advise that there are plenty of ways to make moving less stressful, but you still need to be certain you’re making the best decision for you first. After all, buying a home is probably the most significant investment you’ll make in your life.

Even though plenty of people have a pretty good idea of what they want in a house, they somehow don’t give the same amount of thought to the neighborhood they choose. However, this is even more important as you can always work on improving your home and adjusting it to your preferences. On the other hand, the location will remain the same.
Don’t rush your decision but consider the following factors
Choosing the ideal neighborhood depends on many factors, most of which are personal. For example, a young professional just starting their career will surely be looking for something completely different than a retired couple looking for a place to spend their golden years.
So what makes a neighborhood desirable is highly subjective and depends on your unique circumstances. However, there are some common things to consider and look into when doing your neighborhood research:
- Neighborhood safety is one of the most important factors to consider, especially if you have kids. Make sure to research crime rates and ask if there’s a neighborhood watch and adequate street lighting. The good idea is to talk to the neighbors, and you’ll be able to get an overall feel from them.
- We can’t get by without food, medicine, and basic hygiene products, so proximity to the most important amenities is another factor to consider. If you value ease of access, pick a spot within easy driving distance of the places you visit most frequently.
- Finding a good school district is important for many families, whether they are hoping to start a family soon or currently have several children enrolled in public schools.
- Closeness to outdoor amenities is another factor you shouldn’t disregard, especially if you have kids. Research nearby parks and other outdoor places you could potentially visit.
The best Naperville neighborhoods to choose from
Now that you know what to focus on, it’s time to start your research and choose the right Naperville neighborhood for you and your family. Further in this article, you’ll find the top four Naperville neighborhoods in our opinion, and hopefully, you’ll choose one of them to call your new home.

#1 Hobson West
Hobson West is truly one of the best neighborhoods in Naperville, and it’s located just one mile south of Naperville’s downtown. Hobson West is home to some of the state’s top-rated educational institutions and is widely recognized as one of the friendliest communities in the Chicago metropolitan area. Residents also benefit greatly from the community’s other features, such as the tennis courts and Hobson West pool.
In addition, property prices in this area of Naperville are expected to increase by 33.3% annually until 2022, making it one of the city’s most desirable locations. All of these things combined to make Hobson West an excellent place for families to settle down in Naperville.
#2 Downtown Naperville
The central business district of Naperville is also one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city. This is primarily because of its close proximity to the best schools in the country, the Riverwalk, and the best restaurants in Naperville. School District 203, which serves the Downtown Naperville neighborhood, is nationally recognized as the best among districts serving 12,000 or more children.
#3 Cress Creek
In 2022, Cress Creek in Naperville was named the city’s second-most desirable and second-best neighborhood. It’s located 8 minutes northwest of the city center. Having all of this in mind, it’s no wonder this neighborhood is the most sought-after, especially among first-time home buyers.

Cress Creek is home to Cress Creek Country Club, which locals frequent to partake in activities like golf, swimming, and tennis. It is one of this neighborhood’s most popular amenities. Who knows, perhaps you’ll be looking for your new home right here in Cress Creek.
#4 Ashbury
Naperville’s Ashbury is another hip and well-liked area located about 12 minutes south of Naperville’s downtown in southern Will County. Ashbury is, without question, one of Naperville’s most desirable neighborhoods. Access to the subdivision’s Ashbury Clubhouse, pool, and similar amenities makes this neighborhood so attractive.
Wrapping up
We hope our article helps you choose the right Naperville neighborhood for you and your family. We’re positive you’ll quickly fall in love with this town and everything it has to offer. But before you get to that, you first need to find your lovely new home. So wait no more; get in touch with an experienced Naperville real estate agent who’ll help you find a property that perfectly fits your wants and needs. We wish you the best of luck!