North Shore (Chicago)

In the context of the Chicago metropolitan area, the North Shore refers to a string of affluent suburbs stretching north of the city proper on the shores of Lake Michigan. Located in Cook and Lake Counties along Metra's Union Pacific North Line, these communities are (from south to north) Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Highwood, Lake Forest, and Lake Bluff. Communities like Deerfield, Riverwoods, Bannockburn, Northfield, Northbrook, and Glenview—which are all slightly further inland—are also sometimes considered part of this region, although their inclusion is contested. Apart from its wealth, the North Shore is also known for its proximity to the lake, high levels of educational attainment, and highly rated public schools. Some of the wealthiest zip codes in the United States are located in the North Shore; Lake County is the third-wealthiest county in Illinois and among the wealthiest in the U.S.