Glencoe Apartments

Glencoe is an affluent village on the North Shore of Chicago, about 19 miles north of the Loop and sandwiched between the Edens Expressway and Lake Michigan. Enclosed by forest preserves, lagoons, golf clubs, ravines, scenic bluffs, a great lake, and other affluent suburbs (Winnetka to the south and Highland Park to the north), Glencoe has a number of amenities and benefits. It boasts outstanding public schools (including Central School for grades 5-8 and New Trier High School for older kids) and features a tiny cluster of small businesses to serve the commercial desires of the local community. For commuters there's a Metra stop right in the middle of town, enabling a 35-minute trip to and from Chicago. Most of the Glencoe rentals are luxurious single-family homes at a higher price point, but there are a number of reasonably-priced townhomes too.

Demographics of Glencoe, IL

Glencoe has a population of approximately 8,900 residents, with a median age in the high 40s. The village is known for its residential stability, high levels of educational attainment, and civic involvement. Many residents are families, professionals, or retirees who have chosen Glencoe for its lake access, parks, and top-tier public schools. With a strong local government and preservation-minded zoning, Glencoe continues to maintain its character while offering a high quality of life.

Overview of the Glencoe Rental Market

Glencoe’s rental market is limited and competitive due to its small size and predominantly single-family housing stock. Most rentals are within converted homes, vintage units, or elegant townhomes. Renters can expect premium pricing and low turnover. One-bedroom apartments typically start around $1,900 to $2,500, while larger homes or townhomes rent for $3,000 and up depending on size, location, and proximity to the lake or train. For renters seeking tranquility, walkability, and lake access in a historic neighborhood, Glencoe offers a rare suburban opportunity.

Where to Eat and Drink in Glencoe, IL

Glencoe’s dining scene is intimate but high-quality, with a focus on fresh, local fare. Hometown Coffee and Juice continues to be the community’s go-to spot for energizing smoothies, expertly brewed coffee, and healthy breakfast and lunch options. Nearby, Guildhall Glencoe brings a modern café-meets-market vibe to the heart of the village, offering seasonal salads, artisanal pastries, and grab-and-go meals ideal for a picnic at the beach or a day at the Botanic Garden.

Before or after a performance, the the bar at Writers Theatre offers an elegant spot for light bites, wine, and conversation. Whether you're catching a show or just looking for a cozy evening out, it’s a refined choice in a walkable downtown setting.

For a broader selection, renters can explore nearby neighborhoods like Highland Park and Wilmette. Abigail’s American Bistro is a North Shore favorite for upscale comfort food, while Convito Café and Market in Wilmette blends Italian and French flavors in a relaxed, market-style atmosphere. Craving classic Chicago deep dish? Lou Malnati’s in Northbrook serves crowd-pleasing pies just minutes from Glencoe.

Schools and Higher Education in Glencoe

Public, Private, and Charter Schools

Glencoe’s public schools are among the most respected in the state. The village is served by Glencoe District 35 for K–8 education and feeds into the nationally recognized New Trier Township High School. Known for academic rigor, the arts, and a wide range of extracurriculars, New Trier consistently ranks as one of Illinois’ top high schools.

Private school options nearby include North Shore Country Day, Sacred Heart School, and Montessori programs offering alternative approaches for early learners. With its focus on education and small class sizes, Glencoe offers a supportive and high-performing academic environment for families.

Colleges and Universities

Though Glencoe is strictly residential in nature, renters have convenient access to top-tier institutions nearby. Northwestern University is just 25 minutes south in Evanston, while Oakton College in Des Plaines provides accessible associate degree and workforce training programs.

Getting Around Glencoe

Public Transportation

Glencoe is served by the Metra Union Pacific North Line, offering direct weekday service to Chicago’s Ogilvie Station in under an hour. The station sits in the heart of the village, making it walkable from most rental properties. While Glencoe does not have internal Pace bus routes, nearby lines in Winnetka and Highland Park provide connections to surrounding areas. Many residents commute by train or car, though biking and walking are popular for in-town errands.

Parking

Parking in Glencoe is convenient, with residential streets offering ample space and permit systems in place where needed. The downtown and Metra areas offer metered and permit parking for commuters, and most single-family rentals or townhomes include garages or driveways. Village beach lots require seasonal passes for long-term parking access during summer months.

Traffic

Glencoe experiences minimal congestion, with traffic generally limited to school zones during drop-off and pickup hours or seasonal activity near the beach and Ravinia. Sheridan Road and Green Bay Road offer scenic access to neighboring towns, while nearby Lake-Cook Road connects drivers to I-94 and major shopping corridors.

History of Glencoe, IL

Glencoe was incorporated in 1869 and quickly became a haven for Chicagoans looking for respite along the lake. Early development was influenced by landscape architect O.C. Simonds, who emphasized native plantings and natural topography—principles that still shape Glencoe’s residential aesthetic today. The village has long attracted prominent architects, including Frank Lloyd Wright, whose Ravine Bluffs Development is a local treasure. With a well-preserved downtown, lakefront park system, and commitment to historic character, Glencoe maintains a deep connection to its 19th-century roots.