Chicago Suburbs vs. Dallas: Help Us Decide Where to Raise Our Family!

Hey everyone! My spouse and I are mid-career IT professionals (not in big tech) looking to relocate with our elementary-aged kid. After narrowing it down to two options—Chicago’s North Suburbs (Lincolnshire, District 103/Stevenson High) and Dallas’s West Plano—we’re torn. Here’s our breakdown: 🏠Housing & Taxes Both areas offer 2,000-2,500 sq ft SFHs within a $750k budget. Plano homes are newer (1990s-2000s), while Lincolnshire has older charm (1970s-ish). But Texas’ soil issues mean even newer Plano homes risk foundation problems. Taxes tip toward Dallas: $10k/yr vs. $15k in Illinois. Add Texas’ no income tax vs. Illinois’ 4.95% flat rate, and Dallas wins financially. 🏫Schools & Community Stevenson High (Chicago) is elite—top public school nationally, with T20 college placements. West Plano schools are good but less renowned, and the district’s demographics are shifting (60%+ South Asian vs. Lincolnshire’s 45% Asian, mostly Chinese). We worry about Plano’s “declining” reputation as younger families leave. 💼Lifestyle & Jobs Plano’s Asian amenities (groceries, restaurants) are unbeatable, though Chicago’s North Suburbs hold their own. Dallas’s sprawl means driving everywhere (tollways help), while Chicago’s Metra train adds 40+ mins to downtown commutes. Job-wise, Dallas’s growth in traditional sectors edges out Chicago’s stable-but-slower market. 🏞️🌞 Culture & Nature Chicago’s lakefront, museums, and Midwest road trips are huge perks. Dallas? Flat landscapes and limited drivable destinations. But Texas summers (100°F+) vs. Chicago’s polar winters (-20°F wind chills) are both brutal. 💰Final Thoughts Dallas saves money and has newer homes, but Chicago offers better schools, culture, and nature. Are Stevenson’s opportunities worth higher taxes and aging housing? Or does Plano’s affordability outweigh its heat and foundation risks? Would love insights from locals in either area! #Chicago #Dallas