How Walkable is Highland Park, IL?

The most expensive city in this batch pairs a Walk Score of 42 with a median sale price of $924,537. Highland Park near Chicago, IL has a walkable downtown along Central Avenue but is predominantly car-dependent in its residential neighborhoods. The community spans a stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline north of Evanston.

Walkability in the Chicago area

Highland Park's 42 is below the metro average of 77 but represents a middle ground for suburbs. It beats most peer communities: Glenview (39), Northbrook (35), and Buffalo Grove (40) all score lower. Only Evanston (76) offers substantially more walkability nearby.

Metra's Union Pacific North line runs through Highland Park with multiple stations, including one downtown. The downtown district along Central Avenue clusters restaurants, shops, and a movie theater in a compact, walkable grid. East of downtown, ravines and winding roads create a distinctly residential character without retail connectivity.

What a Walk Score of 42 means

Highland Park's Walk Score of 42 puts it in the "Car-Dependent" category overall. Residents near downtown can walk to shops and restaurants, but most of the city requires driving for daily needs. The transit score of 28 (Some Transit) captures Metra and limited Pace service. The bike score of 52 (Bikeable) reflects some trail infrastructure including the Green Bay Trail.

Why do buyers choose Highland Park?

At $924,537, Highland Park buyers are clearly not optimizing for walkability. They're paying for lakefront proximity, large lots, and a downtown village district in the same package. About 59% of homes sell above asking, prices are up 15% year over year, and homes move in 39 days. For context, that $924,537 would buy a condo in Lincoln Park with a Walk Score of 94—a completely different lifestyle.

Highland Park buyers want the combination of rail commuting, residential space, lake access, and a compact downtown for occasional walking trips. They accept that most daily errands will involve a car. The closest alternative offering higher walkability at a lower price is Evanston ($484,757, Walk Score 76), which offers genuinely walkable neighborhoods but smaller lots and denser development. Highland Park is for buyers who want space first and walkability as a bonus on weekends.

Limited to neighborhoods with at least 10 home sales in the period.

All data comes from Redfin and represents a three-month rolling average ending July 2026. This article has been generated, in whole or in part, using generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology, with input from Redfin head of economics research Chen Zhao. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of this information, you should independently verify all data, facts, and citations contained in this article before relying on it for any purpose. This information is not a substitute for advice from a real estate agent, financial advisor, or other licensed professional. Check the Redfin Data Center for additional in-depth housing market data.