Overall City Sentiment Score
Is Des Plaines the kind of place you grow roots—or just pass through? How do locals really feel about living in this Chicago suburb? In 2025, Des Plaines’s sentiment score falls between 75-80 out of 100, influenced by a strong sense of community pride and convenient location. However, concerns over rising housing costs and traffic congestion keep the score from reaching higher.
Key factors shaping Des Plaines’s overall vibe include:
- Tight-knit community feel with active neighborhood groups
- Proximity to O’Hare Airport and downtown Chicago
- Well-regarded schools and family-friendly amenities
- Increasing worries about housing affordability and cost of living
Social Media Buzz in Des Plaines
On local Facebook groups like “You Know You’re From Des Plaines If…”, the mood is generally positive, with residents sharing nostalgic memories and community updates. However, posts about rising property taxes and congestion near the Touhy Avenue corridor hint at growing pains.
Recent comments reflect the mix of sentiments:
- “Loved growing up here in the ’90s. Still a great place to raise kids, but it’s getting pricier.” – Sarah K.
- “Traffic on Lee Street is a nightmare these days. Miss the quieter times.” – Mike R.
- “Des Plaines has so much to offer. Great parks, friendly neighbors, diverse food scene. Wouldn’t trade it!” – Lisa P.
Local News Tone
The Des Plaines Journal & Topics strikes a balanced tone, celebrating community successes while also covering challenges. Recent headlines like “District 62 Schools Earn Top Marks” and “City Council Debates Solutions for Overburdened Roads” reflect a city striving to maintain quality of life amid growth.
Review-Based Public Perception
On review platforms like Niche and Nextdoor, Des Plaines earns solid marks for diversity, nightlife, and community events. The downtown area gets extra points for walkability and charm. However, some newer residents lament the lack of more modern amenities found in trendier suburbs.
A Niche reviewer sums it up: “Des Plaines is a hidden gem. Unpretentious, welcoming, with just enough to do. But don’t expect Naperville-level glitz.”
Comparison to Nearby Cities
| City | Sentiment Score | Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Plaines | 77 | Community, location, affordability | Rising costs, congestion |
| Park Ridge | 82 | Schools, safety, small-town feel | Higher taxes, older housing |
| Elk Grove Village | 79 | Jobs, diversity, parks | Lacks vibrant downtown |
What Locals Are Saying
“I’ve lived in Des Plaines for 20 years and raised my kids here. It’s been the perfect balance of community and convenience. Sure, it’s not as flashy as some suburbs, but that’s part of the charm.” – Tom D., retired teacher
“As a young professional, I appreciate the easy access to the city via the Metra. Des Plaines also has some hidden gem restaurants and bars. Just wish rent wasn’t climbing so fast.” – Emily S., marketing coordinator
“We moved here for the schools and haven’t been disappointed. Lots of family events, great parks, friendly neighbors. Traffic can be a bear, but it’s a small price to pay.” – Raj P., software engineer & dad
Conclusion: Is Des Plaines a Happy City?
With a sentiment score of 77, Des Plaines offers a balanced blend of suburban comfort and urban connectivity that keeps most residents satisfied. While locals grapple with preserving affordability and managing growth, the prevailing mood is one of pride and contentment.
Longtime residents cherish the tight-knit community feel, while newcomers appreciate the location and diversity. Traffic headaches aside, Des Plaines provides the essentials for a happy hometown: safe streets, good schools, welcoming neighbors, and just enough to do.
Of course, happiness is personal. A lot depends on your lifestyle needs and budget. But if you’re seeking a down-to-earth Chicago suburb that’s more substance than flash, Des Plaines is worth a closer look. Come see why this unassuming city keeps earning those smiley face emojis.