Midwest, September 10, 2025
News Summary
A significant demographic shift is occurring with one in five homebuyers relocating to the Midwest, attracted by affordable housing, quality education, and appealing lifestyles. The region offers lower home values and enhanced safety, making it an attractive option for families. Compared to other areas facing extreme weather, homeowners in the Midwest experience lower home insurance costs. Communities like Chesterfield, Ballwin, and Naperville are highlighted as ideal places to raise a family, emphasizing the Midwest’s growing reputation as a desirable living location.
MIDWEST REGION – In 2024, approximately one in five homebuyers flocked to the Midwest, drawn by factors such as affordable housing, quality educational institutions, and appealing lifestyles. This demographic shift signifies the Midwest’s evolution into a prime location for families seeking better living standards.
The Midwest is becoming increasingly attractive due to its relatively lower home values compared to other regions, as well as the benefits of a slower-paced lifestyle. New residents are particularly focusing on areas that offer personal safety, higher-quality schools, and shorter commute times. These factors have bolstered the region’s reputation as a desirable place to live.
In contrast to regions affected by rising temperatures and extreme weather, homeowners in the Midwest enjoy lower home insurance costs. Data indicates that most Midwest families spend a smaller percentage of their income on home insurance than those residing in southern states, where weather-related risks have driven up insurance premiums.
Midwest Communities Ranked as Top Places to Raise a Family
Stacker utilized Niche’s 2025 Best Places to Raise a Family ranking to evaluate Midwest communities, highlighting key factors such as public school quality, crime and safety, cost of living, demographics, and available community resources. The analysis focused on areas with populations exceeding 10,000 in states such as Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
Notable communities that emerged from this analysis include:
- Chesterfield, MO: This city, home to a population of 49,591, boasts the longest outdoor strip mall in the United States and has a median home value significantly above the national average, with low crime rates.
- Ballwin, MO: With a population of 30,835, Ballwin has a strong community spirit, excellent schools, a home ownership rate of 78%, and low crime rates.
- Brookfield, WI: This historically safe community of 41,592 residents has crime rates below the national average.
- Whitefish Bay, WI: Home to 14,750 residents, Whitefish Bay offers a median household income exceeding $150,000 and boasts a college attainment rate of 93%.
- Powell, OH: With 14,229 residents, Powell showcases a high median household income of $191,250 and average home values nearing $500,000.
- Montgomery, OH: This community has a population of 10,816 and enjoys a median household income of around $150,000 as well as low crime rates.
- Deerfield, IL: Deerfield, with a population of 19,185, has a median household income approaching $190,000 and high average home values.
- Northville Township, MI: Home to 31,393 residents and possesses home rule authority via charter.
- Rochester, MI: With 12,939 residents, this city is recognized for having a top ten school district and a vibrant downtown area during the holidays.
- East Grand Rapids, MI: Population 11,394, this community is known for its low crime rate and high educational levels among residents.
- Mason, OH: With 35,148 residents, Mason is rich in community amenities and hosts various amusement parks.
- Winnetka, IL: A population of 12,508 makes this city the seventh safest in the country, with a median income exceeding $250,000.
- Barrington, IL: Known for its quiet lifestyle and park facilities, Barrington has a population of 11,049.
- Buffalo Grove, IL: This community includes 42,824 residents, with a median home value close to $400,000 and a high median income.
- Northbrook, IL: With a population of 34,642, this area has been featured in numerous films.
- Vernon Hills, IL: A retail hub with a population of 26,772 that hosts several major employers.
- Carmel, IN: Known as the “Beverly Hills of the Midwest,” this community has a population of 100,501 and a median household income of $134,602.
- Naperville, IL: The third-largest city in Illinois with a population of 149,424, Naperville is known for its low crime rate and high income, frequently included among the wealthiest places.
- Hinsdale, IL: One of the wealthiest towns in Illinois with a population of 17,155 and a median home value exceeding $999,100.
Conclusion
The Midwest is increasingly becoming a hub for homebuyers, particularly families looking for a higher quality of life without the financial burden of expensive housing. Communities across the region offer appealing attributes, contributing to this ongoing trend.
FAQ
What are the primary reasons homebuyers are moving to the Midwest in 2024?
Homebuyers are drawn to the Midwest due to affordable housing, better home values, increased personal safety, high-quality schools, and shorter commute times.
How does home insurance cost in the Midwest compare to other regions?
Midwest homeowners generally spend a lower percentage of their income on home insurance compared to homeowners in the South, where extreme weather has led to rising insurance costs.
What cities in the Midwest are highlighted as the best places to raise a family?
Some top cities include Chesterfield, Ballwin, Powell, Montgomery, and Naperville, recognized for their strong community resources and low crime rates.
| City | Population | Median Household Income | Median Home Value | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chesterfield, MO | 49,591 | N/A | Above National Average | Low |
| Ballwin, MO | 30,835 | N/A | N/A | Low |
| Powell, OH | 14,229 | $191,250 | Nearly $500,000 | Low |
| Naperville, IL | 149,424 | N/A | N/A | Low |
| Hinsdale, IL | 17,155 | N/A | $999,100 | N/A |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Stacker: Best Places to Raise a Family in the Midwest
- Wikipedia: Midwest
- Q98.5: Midwest Family-Friendly Winter Getaways
- Google Search: Midwest real estate
- Chicago Parent: Galena Family Guide
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Midwest
- Time Out: Family Winter Vacation Ideas in the Midwest
- Google News: Family Travel in Midwest
- Midwest Living: 25 Coolest Midwest Lake Vacation Spots
- Google Scholar: Midwest family living
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