Prestigious North Shore Living with Exceptional Schools Winnetka, Illinois is one of the most prestigious and sought-after communities on Chicago’s North Shore. Known for its nationally recognized schools, beautiful lakefront parks, classic architecture, and strong sense of community, Winnetka consistently attracts families and professionals seeking long-term value and an exceptional quality of life. Located approximately 16 miles north of downtown Chicago, Winnetka offers the ideal balance of refined suburban living with convenient access to the city.
Nationally ranked public schools
Lake Michigan beaches, parks, and recreation
Walkable neighborhoods with strong community identity
Metra and CTA access to downtown Chicago
Timeless architecture and stable property values
Winnetka is especially appealing to families prioritizing education, safety, and a strong community environment.
Education is one of Winnetka’s defining strengths. Families benefit from top-tier public schools and access to highly respected private, independent and Montessori options nearby.
Winnetka is served by Winnetka School District 36 and New Trier Township High School District 203, both consistently ranked among the best in the state.
Elementary & Middle Schools (District 36)
Greeley Elementary School
Hubbard Woods Elementary School
Crow Island Elementary School
Skokie School (Middle School)
Washburne School (Middle School)
District information:
https://www.winnetka36.org/
High School
New Trier High School
New Trier High School is nationally recognized for academic excellence, arts, athletics, and comprehensive extracurricular programs.
High school information:
https://www.newtrier.k12.il.us/
Loyola Academy
Jesuit college-preparatory high school
https://www.goramblers.org/
St. Joseph School
Catholic elementary education
https://www.stjosephwilmette.org/
Regina Dominican High School
All-girls Catholic college-preparatory high school
https://www.rdhs.org/
Winnetka and the surrounding North Shore offer outstanding Montessori and independent school options:
Winnetka Montessori School
Montessori education from early childhood through elementary
https://www.winnetkamontessori.org/
North Shore Country Day School
Independent co-educational school serving JK–12
https://www.nscds.org/
Roycemore School
Independent school serving preschool through high school
https://www.roycemoreschool.org/
Lakefront parks including Tower Road Beach, Elder Lane Beach, and Centennial Park
Extensive park district programming for youth and adults
Safe, walkable neighborhoods with sidewalks and bike paths
Community events, sports programs, and cultural offerings
Strong civic engagement and village services
Winnetka features a diverse range of housing options, including classic Colonials, Tudor and Georgian homes, lakefront estates, and thoughtfully designed newer construction. Many neighborhoods offer close proximity to schools, parks, Metra stations, and local shopping areas.
Homes in Winnetka are known for architectural character, mature landscaping, and long-term real estate stability.
Winnetka offers excellent commuter access while maintaining a quiet residential atmosphere:
Metra Union Pacific North Line to downtown Chicago
CTA Purple Line access
Convenient access to Lake Shore Drive and major roadways
Close proximity to Wilmette, Kenilworth, and Glencoe
Winnetka remains one of the North Shore’s premier communities for buyers seeking elite schools, a strong sense of place, and long-term investment value.
If you are considering a move to Winnetka or would like guidance on neighborhoods, schools, or current homes for sale, working with a local real estate expert can help you navigate the market with confidence.
20,156 people live in Winnetka, where the median age is 44.8 and the average individual income is $136,440. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
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