The City of Elgin has been on a roll since it was founded in 1836. Attracting city dwellers and suburbanites, the bustling city is home to over 100,000 people and is one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in the state.

A picturesque 1920s millworks building houses the State Street Market with shops that sell antiques, gifts, decor, and handmade items. Many other historic buildings have been transformed into clubs and eateries.

With plenty of arts and entertainment, Elgin offers residents a variety of galleries, museums, and theaters, along with a children’s chorus and the Elgin Symphony Orchestra.

Downtown Elgin has undergone significant renovations with new development including townhouses, condominiums, and lofts. Housing is diverse from historic districts to neighborhoods with single-family homes and townhomes.

The city has more than 75 parks and 10 recreation facilities, with over 1,600 acres of parks and 4,000 acres of Kane and Cook County forest preserves. Residents enjoy canoeing, fishing, and equestrian trails as well as access to the Fox River Trail and Illinois Prairie Path. There are 36 miles of trails for hikers and bikers to enjoy.

Elgin has three Metra stations along the Milwaukee District West Line, providing daily service to Chicago.