What are the best and worst suburbs of Chicago?

There are so many! When choosing a suburbs, ask yourself whether or not it's important for you to have easy access to downtown, if there any major expressways you need to get to and how far you are from your job. That should narrow it down a bit. Then you can start looking from there. Take a look at Tinley Park. It has a lot going on, and there are plenty of other suburbs within a few minutes. You can also take a look at Palatine, Glendale Heights and Aurora.

"Best" and "Worst" can be quite subjective. I find that clients begin considering where they want to live based on location, proximity to work, public transportation, etc. If you need access to downtown and to northern suburbs, than you may consider areas north of 90. Do you want to be near the lake? Do you want a big yard? Do schools play a part in your decision? I would start by making a list of what is most important to you and your current / future lifestyle. Once that begins to take shape, you will be able to begin looking at specific suburbs based on your needs. I am happy to help answer any additional questions you may have on this topic. I have lived in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs my entire life and may be able to help with some of the basic questions. Good Luck!!

A lot of this answer comes down to things that are really subjective. Take a look at http://www.greatschools.org to see what people say about the various schools in the area.

In terms of which suburb is right for you, what do you like? Do you prefer big subdivisions with lots of houses that are all pretty similar? Would you rather have more space and be surrounded by nature? Do you like custom homes that are unique and won't look like the neighbors? Would you rather have homes close together to have a more neighborhood feel, especially if you have younger kids?

You may want to start by answering some of those questions, and then narrow down by dining & entertainment after that.

Post a follow-up and I'll weigh in again!

One's best & worst suburbs will all depend upon what one considers to be the best and worst commutes.