Barrington

Welcome to Barrington

Welcome to Barrington! If you're looking for a place that perfectly blends a tranquil, suburban feel with a deep connection to nature, you've found it. Located in parts of both Cook and Lake counties, about 30 miles northwest of Chicago, Barrington is famous for its stunning historic Victorian downtown and a strong sense of community.

This isn't just any suburb; it's a village with a rich history. Settled in the 1830s and officially incorporated in 1865, it has preserved its character so well that it's recognized as the largest residential historic district in all of Illinois. It’s a place that feels both timeless and vibrant, living up to its motto to "Be Inspired."

Barrington Real Estate Market

The real estate market here is relatively fast paced. Because Barrington is such a desirable area, homes tend to sell very quickly.

The diversity of properties is incredible. You can find everything from historic homes in "The Village," where you can walk to the train and downtown shops, to sprawling equestrian estates with acres of land. The area is also dotted with lots of lakes, offering beautiful waterfront properties and stunning views.

What really makes the market unique is the architecture. As the largest residential historic district in the state, the housing stock is filled with character. You'll find stunning, lovingly maintained homes in styles like Victorian, Queen Anne, and Craftsman, including unique gems like the famous Octagon House (also known as the Hawley House). This blend of historic charm and luxury estates makes the Barrington market truly one-of-a-kind.

What to Love

• The charming Downtown and Village that's listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Top-rated schools in the Barrington Community Unit School District 220.
• Beautiful natural areas, from neighborhood parks to sprawling forest preserves.
• A strong, tight-knit community that comes together for local events.
• Easy access to Chicago for work or play via the local Metra train stop (the Union Pacific Northwest Line).

Local Lifestyle

Life in Barrington feels like the best of both worlds. It’s peaceful and deeply connected to nature, but never boring. Residents really love the strong sense of togetherness; you'll see neighbors out walking, kids playing in the numerous parks, and a lot of pride in the local community.

It’s a place where you can enjoy a quiet morning hike through a nature preserve, and then hop on the Metra for a meeting in the city. It’s family-friendly, historic, and just genuinely welcoming. The village also honors its equestrian roots, which adds a unique, rustic elegance to the area's character.

Dining, Entertainment and Shopping

Barrington’s historic downtown is the heart of it all. It’s incredibly walkable and lined with beautiful Victorian and Craftsman architecture, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon. Forget cookie-cutter chains; the downtown area is filled with quaint local shops, cozy coffee spots, and fantastic restaurants like Neoteca and Shakou. 

Things to Do

You will never run out of things to do, especially if you love the outdoors. The Barrington Park District offers tons of parks, playgrounds, and sports fields.

For a real escape, you can explore nearby forest preserves like Cuba Marsh or the Crabtree Nature Center. They're perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or just enjoying a peaceful walk on the trails. And, true to its heritage, you'll find plenty of opportunities for horseback riding.

Be sure to check the local calendar, too! The village is always hosting community events that bring everyone together, like the Memorial Day parade, the annual Fourth of July parade and fireworks, the high school Homecoming parade, and the popular "Art in the Barn" juried fine arts show.