Welcome to Barrington Hills

Large sweeping lots housing grand estates and equestrian facilities

Just east of Barrington and South Barrington lies the sophisticated yet pastoral village of Barrington Hills, where country living is elevated to an elegance hard to achieve elsewhere. Lavish, refined estates are nested on massive lots with an abundance of acreage, where horses graze and the sun sets vibrantly over meticulously maintained lawns and towering mature trees. 

While Barrington Hills wasn’t officially incorporated until 1957, it has a long history of drawing the area’s affluent to its bucolic pastures. In the early 20th century, business executives and industry titans purchased much of the farmland in the Barrington Hills area to establish regal summer homes, and by 1921 the Barrington Hills Country Club was established. 

Housing in Barrington Hills spans across the 20th and 21st centuries, meaning that buyers have their pick of architectural styles and histories, all complete with the unbelievable regality the area is renowned for. Magnificent French chateau-inspired estates, stately brick mansions with a more contemporary traditional flair, and imposing Georgian properties all invite owners to a world of luxury and tranquility. 

What to Love

• Far enough from the city to avoid the bustle, but still close enough for day trips to Chicago
• Equestrian paradise, most homes have space for stables and riding
• Mostly residential vibes but right next door to some of the area’s best shopping and dining
  
  

Local Lifestyle

A small population with large estates means that Barrington Hills is the place to be when you want a little room to breathe and bright sunrises from a quiet front porch. Residents enjoy the luxury of long private drives that are often gated, leafy alcoves, and a gently sloping landscape, all of which gives locals the inclination to stay inside the perimeters of their own little paradise.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

When residents want to get in a little retail therapy or grab dinner out on the town, they typically head to The Arboretum of South Barrington, a mere 10-minute drive away. An open-air retail destination named after its abundant trees, lush gardens, and manicured landscape, The Arboretum houses a plethora of upscale shops like White House Black Market and L.L. Bean.

The Arboretum is also brimming with dining options, such as delicious traditional Mexican at MAGO Grill & Cantina. Not only is the menu crafted by award-winning Chef Juan Luis Gonzalez, but the guacamole is also made right at your table, and the restaurant boasts a massive selection of over 200 premier tequilas. 

Grab a bite of incredible sushi and Pan Asian cuisine at Wok N Fire, whose signature maki rolls are bursting with flavor. Anna Shea Chocolates & Lounge offers a sweet treat to those visiting the Arboretum—their European-style artisan chocolates are expertly crafted to satisfy your candy cravings. 

Things to Do

Barrington Hills’ dedication to preserving the beauty of their hometown isn’t the only altruistic facet of the community. Many of the year’s activities are centered around charity events and spectacular galas whose proceeds go to incredibly worthy foundations. For instance, the Sanfilippo Foundation resides in a one-of-a-kind building that houses absolutely magical events throughout the year, including tours of special antiques and collections and remarkable music performances. 

The village hosts frequent galas to benefit JourneyCare’s Hospice and Palliative Care, a much-loved community foundation. The Barrington Area Conservation Trust, or BACT for short, hosts an annual concert for residents and supports the village’s commitment to the environment. 

Schools

Barrington Hills is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities can be found within the Barrington 220 School District. Nationally recognized for its excellence, this school district has obtained 11 National Blue Ribbon Awards. Notable schools include:

• Roslyn Road Elementary School, K-5, one of the top public elementary schools in the state
• Grove Avenue Elementary School, K-5,  #3 public elementary school in the state
• Barrington Middle School—Prairie Campus, 6-8, one of the top public middle schools in the state
• Barrington High School, 9-12, one of the top public high schools in the state
  

Why Live in Barrington Hills

Barrington Hills offers one of the most distinctive residential lifestyles in the Chicago metropolitan area — a genuinely rural estate community where five-acre minimum zoning has permanently preserved open landscapes, horse country character, and a pace of life that the surrounding suburbs have largely traded away. Wide roads wind past horse farms, private ponds, wooded estates, and rolling meadows that give Barrington Hills an unmistakably countryside feel, while Metra commuter rail at the Barrington station and quick I-90 access keep downtown Chicago approximately 45 minutes away.

Equestrian life is central to the village's identity. Miles of bridle trails connect properties throughout the community, and the Barrington Hills Riding Club, local fox hunting traditions, and a strong network of equestrian families give the village a social and recreational character unlike any other Chicagoland suburb. For buyers who want genuine rural privacy, estate-scale living, and metropolitan accessibility — all in a community that has deliberately protected its character across generations — Barrington Hills is without peer in the region.

Barrington Real Estate

Step into the serene elegance of Barrington Hills, IL—a neighborhood known for its luxurious estates, equestrian properties, and expansive natural landscapes. As one of the most prestigious communities in the Barrington area, Barrington Hills offers a secluded and refined lifestyle, with homes often set on multi-acre lots and priced around $1.2 million on average. These properties provide unmatched privacy, scenic views, and space for custom amenities such as private stables, pools, and tennis courts.

Barrington Hills spans four counties—Cook, Kane, Lake, and McHenry—offering a unique blend of rural charm and accessibility. Residents benefit from proximity to downtown Barrington, while still enjoying quiet, countryside living. The neighborhood is part of the highly acclaimed Barrington 220 School District and offers convenient access to major highways and the Metra line, making it ideal for commuters. Whether you're seeking a peaceful estate surrounded by nature or a luxurious home within reach of Chicago, Barrington Hills presents a premier opportunity for elevated suburban living.

Types of Homes in Barrington Hills

Equestrian Estates

The signature property type — custom residences on five or more acres with private stables, paddocks, riding rings, and direct bridle trail access. These range from historic farmhouses thoughtfully expanded over decades to purpose-built equestrian compounds designed entirely around the horse lifestyle.

Traditional Luxury Estate Homes

Grand Colonial, Tudor, French Country, and Georgian residences on wooded or meadow lots, featuring four-car garages, finished lower levels, gourmet kitchens, wine cellars, and resort-caliber outdoor spaces with pools and expansive entertaining areas.

Contemporary and Custom-Built Residences

Architecturally significant modern and transitional homes with walls of glass, open layouts, smart-home technology, and sustainable systems — placing current luxury design within Barrington Hills' naturalistic estate setting.

Historic Farmhouses and Character Estates

Character-rich properties with established tree canopies, stone walls, ponds, and landscapes matured across a century or more — appealing to buyers who value provenance and authenticity alongside acreage.

Vacant Land and Custom Build Opportunities

A limited supply of buildable parcels — five acres minimum — for buyers who want to design their ideal estate from the ground up within a community whose character and zoning are already firmly established.

Barrington Real Estate FAQs

What types of homes are available in Barrington Hills?

Barrington Hills is known for its custom-built luxury estates, many of which sit on 5-acre or larger parcels. Homes range from classic colonial and Tudor-style mansions to modern architectural masterpieces, often featuring equestrian facilities, guest houses, and private ponds.

What is the average price of homes in Barrington Hills?

The average home price in Barrington Hills is around $1.2 million, though prices can exceed $3 million for larger estates with premium features and acreage. The area’s exclusivity and land size contribute to its higher property values.

Are equestrian properties common in Barrington Hills?

Yes, Barrington Hills is a premier destination for equestrian living. Many properties are zoned for horses and include private stables, riding arenas, and access to miles of maintained bridle paths and nearby forest preserves.

Is Barrington Hills part of a good school district?

Absolutely. Barrington Hills is served by the top-rated Barrington 220 School District, known for its academic excellence, advanced placement programs, and strong extracurricular offerings, making it a top choice for families.

How private is the lifestyle in Barrington Hills?

Privacy is one of Barrington Hills’ greatest appeals. With large lot sizes, mature trees, and gated driveways, residents enjoy a tranquil and secluded lifestyle, while still being minutes from shopping, dining, and commuter routes.

Is Barrington Hills a good place for commuters?

Yes, while it offers a rural ambiance, Barrington Hills provides easy access to major highways and the Metra station in downtown Barrington, making commutes to Chicago and surrounding business hubs convenient.

What makes Barrington Hills unique among other Barrington neighborhoods?

Barrington Hills stands out for its blend of luxury, space, and nature. Unlike more densely populated suburban areas, it offers estate-style living with room to roam, a strong equestrian culture, and a commitment to preserving open space and natural beauty.