Data updated Oct 8, 2026
Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 77)
Downers Grove sits 216 meters above sea level in the continental climate zone of northeastern Illinois, where four distinct seasons bring warm summers, cold winters, and crisp transitions. The village of 50,000 people is centered around a walkable downtown with a Metra station, and expats tend to settle in the Downtown area or the leafy Denburn Woods neighborhood. With Chicago just a short train ride away, Downers Grove offers a quieter, more affordable alternative to the big city while keeping commuters connected.
Living costs here are noticeably lower than in major U.S. metros, with a cost of living index of 67 out of 100 (New York City = 100). A single adult in the budget tier spends about $1,357 per month including rent, while the comfortable tier runs $3,287 per month. Rents vary widely by location and size: a one-bedroom in the city center averages $2,500 per month, but outside the center it drops to $1,500. A three-bedroom outside the center costs $1,750, while the same unit downtown goes for $3,500. The average monthly net salary locally is $5,200, which covers the typical single person's non-rent expenses of $1,900 per month or a family of four's $4,900. Utilities run $173 monthly, internet $50, and a mobile phone plan $35. Eating out is reasonable: an inexpensive restaurant meal costs $14, a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range spot is $75, and a restaurant cappuccino is $5.
Safety is a strong point, with a safety index of 75 out of 100 and a crime index of 25 (lower is safer). Healthcare quality is rated excellent, and English is widely spoken, making medical visits straightforward for English-speaking newcomers. The air quality index of 52 is moderate, typical of a suburban environment near a major city.
Getting to Downers Grove is easy via Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD), though the nearest airport is Chicago Midway International (LOT), just 4 kilometers away. Visa pathways exist for workers, students, and family reunification, but specific program names are not detailed here. With an overall expat score of 76, a digital nomad score of 76, a retiree score of 67, and a FIRE score of 66, Downers Grove suits professionals who commute to Chicago, families seeking good schools and safe streets, and remote workers who want a stable, mid-sized community with solid internet speeds averaging 100 Mbps.
Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Downers Grove, IL, United States. Takes 10 seconds.
How much are you shipping?
When are you moving?
Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.
Downers Grove, IL at the budget tier comes to about $2,036 a month for one adult, with $1,500 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $167 on groceries, $56.00 on dining out, $55.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $258 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$1,500/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$167/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$56.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$55.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$258/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Downers Grove, IL at the mid-range tier comes to about $2,209 a month for one adult, with $1,500 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $223 on groceries, $140 on dining out, $88.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $258 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$1,500/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$223/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$140/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$88.00/mo
2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$258/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Downers Grove, IL at the comfortable tier comes to about $3,534 a month for one adult, with $2,500 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $312 on groceries, $309 on dining out, $155 on entertainment and lifestyle and $258 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$2,500/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$312/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$309/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$155/mo
4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$258/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $2500/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
See low-fee transfersWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Downers Grove, IL's cost of living compares with Chester, CA
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Downers Grove is a prosperous Chicago suburb with a strong safety reputation backed by data. The town feels secure for daily activities, with good street lighting and regular police presence. Nighttime walkability is generally safe, though like most U.S. suburbs, having a car is practical. The community actively maintains its family-friendly image, and violent crime remains rare compared to national averages.
Property crime (vehicle theft, package theft) occurs occasionally but at below-average rates. Petty theft from unlocked vehicles is the primary concern. Violent crime is uncommon. The downtown area and residential neighborhoods are well-maintained. Solo female travelers and residents report feeling comfortable, though standard urban precautions apply—avoid isolated areas late at night and secure valuables. Scams are typical of suburban America, not localized threats.
Downers Grove operates within stable Illinois governance with reliable police services and no significant political instability. Corruption is not a concern. The area has strong community policing and neighborhood watch programs. For an American considering relocation, this is a genuinely safe choice—ideal for remote workers or retirees seeking suburban stability near Chicago without urban crime pressures. It's a low-risk move.
See how Downers Grove, IL's healthcare compares with Chester, CA
Downers Grove experiences a humid continental climate with hot, muggy summers (June–August) and cold, snowy winters (December–February), with mild spring and fall transitions.
A suburban setting with a vibrant coworking scene and excellent services.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Regus - Downers Grove, Esplanade at Locust Point | Located in the Esplanade at Locust Point, this Regus offers a professional environment with various office solutions. It's a convenient option for those seeking a standard coworking experience with easy access to amenities and transportation. |
| Office Evolution Downers Grove | Office Evolution provides a mix of coworking and private office spaces, suitable for those who need flexibility. They offer 24/7 access and a professional atmosphere, making it a good choice for remote workers seeking a more structured environment. |
| Davinci Virtual Office Solutions | Davinci offers virtual office solutions, including coworking spaces and meeting rooms. It's a budget-friendly option for those who primarily need a professional address and occasional workspace. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Working remotely from Downers Grove, IL? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
See nomad insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Downers Grove, IL's digital nomad life compares with Chester, CA
A prestigious and safe suburb of Chicago with a top-rated downtown area and excellent schools.
Areas of Downers Grove, IL that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Lively, walkable, community-focused
Downtown is the heart of Downers Grove, with restaurants, shops, and the Metra train station. It's very walkable and offers a strong sense of community, making it appealing to expats. However, it can be pricier and noisier than other areas.
Quiet, residential, family-oriented
Fairmont is a primarily residential area with well-maintained homes and good schools. It's ideal for families seeking a peaceful environment. While not specifically expat-focused, the friendly atmosphere could be welcoming, but a car is essential.
Established, green, suburban charm
Puffer is known for its mature trees and well-kept properties. It offers a classic suburban feel, appealing to those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Public transit is limited, so a car is needed, and expat resources are not readily available within the immediate area.
Convenient, mixed-use, accessible
The Highland Avenue area offers a mix of residential and commercial properties, with easy access to major roads and amenities. It's a practical choice for those who value convenience. While not a major expat hub, its accessibility and proximity to services make it relatively easy to navigate.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $2500/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
Many long-stay visas require proof of health insurance. Compare international health plans before you apply.
Compare health insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Not sure which United States visa you qualify for?
Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.
Click any question to expand the answer.
Cost-of-living and visa updates for Downers Grove, IL and the rest of United States. Free with RA Postcards.
By submitting your email address, you will receive a free subscription to RA Postcards and special offers from Rewire Abroad and our affiliates. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we encourage you to read more about our Privacy Policy.