Coming in second is often joked about as being second-best, but when your town is voted the No. 2 best place to live in the entire nation by Money magazine in 2006, second place feels pretty great. Naperville has made the publication’s Top Five list three times in the last five years, proving that it’s more than just a suburb—it’s a city that knows how to shine.
Straddling the line between DuPage and Will counties, Naperville had 141,853 residents as of the 2010 census, with roughly 100,000 living on the DuPage County side and 45,000 in Will County. That makes it the fifth-largest city in Illinois, trailing only Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, and Joliet. From humble beginnings as a small farming town, Naperville has grown into a thriving city that balances urban energy with suburban calm.
Early Days
In July of 1831, the schooner Telegraph docked on the west bank of the DuPage River near what would eventually become Chicago. On board were Joseph Naper, his family, and a handful of other settlers. Together, they founded Naper’s Settlement. By the next year, over 100 settlers had joined them.
By 1834, Naperville’s Settlement became a stagecoach stop on the road from Chicago to Galena. When DuPage County was separated from Cook County in 1839, Naperville’s Settlement became the county seat until 1868. By 1857, the population had reached over 2,000, and the settlement was incorporated as the Village of Naperville.
Naperville Today
Naperville stayed mostly rural until the late 1960s, when new highways brought rapid growth. The construction of the East-West Tollway, now the Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway, and North-South tollways, combined with Chicago’s expanding suburbs, nearly quadrupled the city’s size. This growth attracted businesses, jobs, and new residents.
The city’s neighborhoods are diverse, with homes ranging from modern condos to historic houses. Many communities have active homeowner associations, working with the Naperville Area Homeowners Confederation to maintain the city’s quality of life. Residential redevelopment has been especially strong around downtown Naperville. According to the Live Downtown Naperville Partnership, over $2 billion may be invested in new residential construction in the next ten years, reflecting the area’s ongoing popularity.
Downtown Naperville is now a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The Downtown Naperville Alliance highlights that the city has grown from 180 residents in 1831 to over 142,000 in 2009, while keeping a strong sense of community. The city’s volunteer spirit and pride in heritage are evident in its thriving shops, restaurants, and arts scene, including a world-class fine arts center.
Heritage and Attractions
History lovers and visitors alike can enjoy the Naper Settlement, a 12-acre outdoor living-history museum established in the 1960s that shows 19th-century life. Naperville’s Riverwalk, built and dedicated in 1981 for the city’s 150th anniversary, is often called the crown jewel of the park system. It features covered bridges, fountains, lush landscaping, and distinctive shepherd’s crook light poles. The Riverwalk hosts arts events, walk-a-thons, festivals, and special events throughout the year.
The Naperville Heritage Society and the Naperville Park District, established in 1969, work to preserve the city’s historic buildings and charm. In 2006, Naperville celebrated its 175th anniversary with citywide festivities and commemorative events, honoring the community’s long and rich history.
Why You Might Consider Living in Naperville
If you are thinking about relocating, Naperville offers a lifestyle that balances convenience with community. Excellent schools, a variety of housing options, and easy access to Chicago make it ideal for families and professionals alike. The city’s parks, Riverwalk, and cultural events mean there’s always something to do, whether you enjoy outdoor activities, shopping, or local theater. With strong community engagement and neighborhoods that feel connected yet private, Naperville makes it easy to settle in and thrive.
Naperville’s Ongoing Appeal
From its beginnings as farmland to its current status as a bustling Chicagoland city, Naperville has continually evolved while maintaining a strong sense of identity. Its mix of history, culture, and modern amenities keeps residents proud and visitors intrigued. Whether you’re exploring the Riverwalk, visiting Naper Settlement, or enjoying downtown shops and restaurants, Naperville proves that a city can grow without losing the heart that made it special.
Source: chicago.cooperatornews.com
Header Image Source: chicago.cooperatornews.com
