@properties: Evanston

Located just north of Chicago, Evanston offers a beautiful natural setting on the shores of Lake Michigan. Its historic homes, tree-lined streets and sprawling beaches may be the first things that catch your eye, but there's a lot more to love here.

Home to world-class Northwestern University, Evanston residents have plenty to cheer about – from watching Big Ten sports and enjoying cultural events to exploring academic pursuits.

The thriving downtown district includes bookstores, boutiques, galleries, theaters and restaurants that attract city dwellers and suburbanites alike, while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the many jogging trails, bicycle paths, parks and public beaches the community offers.

Evanston boasts a variety of homes in a wide range of styles and price points. You can find everything from stately historic mansions along the lakefront and well-maintained single-family homes on tree-lined streets, to contemporary townhomes and newer high-rises that are in close proximity to local shops and restaurants.

Residents have several convenient options to commute to downtown Chicago including the CTA's Purple Line and bus routes, as well as Pace bus routes and three Metra stations.