Wheeling, Illinois
Homes for Sale
Local info from
Notable For
Popular lore has it that the town of Wheeling got its name from the wagons traveling northwest down the wooden road known as Plank Road, now Milwaukee Avenue. The truth is, Wheeling borrowed its name from Wheeling, West Virginia, but no one seems to know why. During the late 1800s, the town was a popular day trip for Chicagoans looking to escape the city. A constant party atmosphere from visitors caused frequent disturbances which led to local officials incorporating the township. Law and order were restored and residents could go about their business in peace.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Wheeling is slightly higher than that of the U.S. average with housing making up the largest portion of monthly costs. Wheeling is located in Cook County which has a high sales tax that affects the cost of goods, but property taxes are reasonable and in line with housing values. Housing stock is varied although there is a large selection of mid-century ranch homes due to the population explosion that took place after WWII. Residential structures have been built consistently since the 1950's and there are a number of townhomes and condominium towers in the village. Tear-downs and infill construction has created a pool of newer structures that can be found in older neighborhoods.
Transportation
Wheeling is well-served by public transit and access to major roadways in the area. The Metra commuter rail station on Town Street runs on the North Central Service that travels southeast to Chicago and northwest to Antioch. Pace bus service operates a bus that travels to the Metra stations in the area, major hospitals, and to other destinations in the area. The Tri-State Tollway (294) and Edens Spur (94) are easily accessed from Lake-Cook Road on the eastern side of Wheeling. Routes 83, 45, and 21 (Milwaukee Avenue) run parallel to one another on meandering northwest to southeast paths.
Schools
Students living in Wheeling attend school in the Wheeling Community Consolidated School District 21. It has a total of five elementary schools and three middle schools. High school students attend Wheeling High School although those who live near the northern end of the village will attend Buffalo Grove High School. Both high schools are in the Township High School District 214 which is one of the largest high school districts in the state. Schools typically follow a curriculum that's designed to challenge students to perform their best and Wheeling High School consistently ranks in the top 50 high schools in Illinois.
Attractions
An Oktoberfest and Fallapalooza are held every September on different weekends as a nod to the German settlers who farmed the area before it was developed. The Wheeling Park District and various sponsors put on an annual event called Rock 'n Run the Runway at Chicago Executive Airport. A race is held on the runway, there's a live music stage, food trucks, and activities for families to enjoy. And every year, the Historical Society puts on an event called Lollipop Lane for a week starting in early December. Wheeling offers a great quality of life and a convenient location while retaining a small-town feeling.