Des Plaines Apartments

Des Plaines is a dynamic and well-connected suburb located about 20 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. Bordering Park Ridge and Mount Prospect, this community offers a balance of urban convenience and suburban ease. Known for its excellent transportation access, including a major Metra stop and proximity to O’Hare International Airport, Des Plaines appeals to commuters and travelers alike.

Downtown Des Plaines has seen a steady revitalization with local restaurants, coffee shops, and retail options. Families appreciate the area’s walkable streets and multiple parks, while renters benefit from a wide range of housing—from classic brick apartments to updated condos and single-family homes. The city’s commitment to public amenities, including a public library, fitness center, and large park district, makes Des Plaines a well-rounded choice for renters seeking community-focused living just outside Chicago.

Demographics of Des Plaines, IL

Des Plaines is home to over 58,000 residents with a median age in the low 40s. It’s a diverse community of families, young professionals, and retirees who value the suburb’s accessibility, affordability, and cultural mix. The city supports an active lifestyle through its parks and recreation department and is known for fostering neighborhood events and civic engagement. With strong local schools and convenient services, Des Plaines offers stability and opportunity for renters of all backgrounds. 

Overview of the Des Plaines Rental Market

The Des Plaines rental market offers diverse housing options at price points that represent excellent value compared to Chicago proper. When searching for apartments for rent Des Plaines, you’ll find everything from vintage buildings with character to modern complexes with luxury amenities.

Current rental market data shows an average rent of approximately $1,800 across all property types, with available rental properties numbering around 78 at any given time. The price range is quite broad, spanning from $850 to $8,500, accommodating various budgets and preferences.

For budget-conscious renters, it’s worth noting that winter months typically offer better deals, with rental prices dropping about 3.4% compared to peak summer rates. This seasonal variation can help savvy apartment hunters secure better value when timing their move.

What to Do in Des Plaines, IL

The city features a true downtown area centered around Miner and Ellinwood streets, where you’ll find the beautifully renovated Des Plaines Theater,  which serves as both a cultural hub and catalyst for economic development. Metropolitan Square, a 90,000-square-foot mixed-use development just north of Miner Street, features retail, office spaces, and residential units with a central plaza that hosts community events throughout the year.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Des Plaines offers abundant green spaces. Lake Opeka provides boating and fishing opportunities, while the adjacent Lake Park Golf Course offers 18 holes for golf lovers. The unpaved Des Plaines River Trail stretches 28.4 miles through multiple forest preserves, perfect for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying nature. The Des Plaines Park District maintains over 30 park sites with more than 300 recreational programs, including family aquatic centers and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. 

For those seeking live music, the renovated Des Plaines Theater hosts performances ranging from local bands to national acts.The suburb is also home to the Rivers Casino, a regional entertainment destination featuring gaming, dining, and nightlife.

Where to Eat and Drink in Des Plaines, IL

Start your day at Sugar Bowl Restaurant, a neighborhood institution serving classic American breakfast across from the train station. For lunch, Tap House Grill offers craft beers and elevated pub fare in a casual atmosphere. When you’re craving international flavors, Via Roma serves authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. For more special occasions, Manzo’s Banquets provides upscale dining with Italian-American classics. Seafood enthusiasts appreciate Boston Fish Market, known for its fresh catches and market-style approach.

Coffee lovers will find plenty to enjoy near Des Plaines apartments, such as Brewed Awakening which provides a community-focused atmosphere with homemade pastries and specialty coffees. Amazing Breads & Cakes earns high marks for its delicious pastries and coffee offerings.

The nightlife scene in Des Plaines offers something for every taste. The Beacon Tap has been operating since 1955 and provides a classic sports-themed gastropub experience with regular events and catering services. For a more relaxed evening, Uncork Unwind provides an extensive wine list and small plates in an upscale yet comfortable setting.

Schools and Higher Education in Des Plaines, IL

Public, Private, and Charter Schools

Most areas fall under Community Consolidated School District 62 for elementary and middle schools, which serves approximately 4,261 students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. The district operates several well-regarded schools, including Cumberland Elementary and Iroquois Community School, both of which receive “A” ratings and feature favorable student-teacher ratios (8:1 and 12:1 respectively).

High school students typically attend Maine West High School in Maine Township High School District 207, which serves about 6,183 students. Maine West consistently ranks among the top high schools in Illinois, offering extensive AP courses, strong athletic programs, and comprehensive arts education.

For private education options, several faith-based and independent schools serve the Des Plaines area, providing alternatives to the public school system. These schools typically offer smaller class sizes and specialized programs.

Colleges and Universities

Higher education opportunities abound near Des Plaines apartments for rent. Oakton Community College maintains its Des Plaines campus right within the city, offering associate degrees, certificate programs, and continuing education courses. The campus features modern facilities, including a performing arts center and state-of-the-art science labs.

For those pursuing four-year degrees, Northwestern University in Evanston and DePaul University in Chicago are both accessible via public transportation. Harper College in nearby Palatine provides another excellent community college option with strong transfer programs.

Northeastern Illinois University maintains its main campus about 7 miles from Des Plaines, offering affordable undergraduate and graduate programs. For technical and vocational training, Universal Technical Institute in Lisle provides specialized automotive and diesel programs.

Getting Around Des Plaines, IL

Public Transportation

Des Plaines is well-served by the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line, which offers frequent service to downtown Chicago in under 40 minutes. The local station is centrally located and surrounded by dining, retail, and apartment options. 

For local travel, Pace Suburban Bus operates several routes through Des Plaines, including routes 208, 209, 226, 230, 234, and 250. These buses connect residential areas to shopping centers, medical facilities, and transportation hubs. Real-time tracking is available via Metra Tracker, making it easy to plan your commute.

Parking

Parking in Des Plaines is generally easy. Downtown has a mix of metered and free lots, and many apartment buildings offer off-street parking or garages. Street parking is plentiful in residential zones, though some areas may require permits or have time limits near the Metra station.

The city has established special resident parking districts, particularly near Allstate Arena, with time-restricted zones from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Designated resident-only streets include areas along Central Road and Curtis Street.

Traffic

Des Plaines sees typical suburban traffic patterns, with some congestion during rush hour and near O’Hare. Access to major highways including I-90, I-294, and US-14 makes commuting and weekend travel convenient for renters. The city’s grid layout and traffic-calmed residential streets contribute to a smooth driving experience throughout most of the year.

Des Plaines boasts a rich history that has shaped its character and development into the vibrant suburb it is today. Understanding this history provides context for the community you’ll join when renting an apartment in Des Plaines. European settlement in the area began in 1833, with the city officially incorporating in 1869. The name “Des Plaines” comes from the Des Plaines River, which runs through the city (the name is of French origin, meaning “of the plains”).

A pivotal moment in both local and fast-food history occurred in 1955 when Ray Kroc opened the first McDonald’s franchise in Des Plaines. Though the original restaurant was demolished in 1984, this significant piece of American cultural history remains part of the city’s identity.

The post-World War II era brought rapid growth to Des Plaines, largely due to the development of O’Hare International Airport. This proximity to a major transportation hub dramatically influenced the city’s economy and appeal, bringing jobs, businesses, and increased housing demand.

Today, the Des Plaines History Center preserves and celebrates this rich heritage. The center features the Kinder House Museum (built in 1907) and offers historical lectures, family events, and walking tours that highlight the city’s development from rural outpost to thriving suburb. Recent years have seen renewed focus on downtown revitalization, with the restoration of the historic Des Plaines Theater and development of mixed-use properties like Metropolitan Square. These projects reflect the city’s commitment to preserving its heritage while creating a vibrant, modern community for residents.

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