Local Realtors need local news — and that’s where Chicago Agent comes in. Throughout the year, we cover many, many stories about the goings-ons in and around Chicagoland, from breaking stories to researched lists. Here are the Chicago real estate stories that stuck out most in 2022.

No. 1: The best public high schools in Illinois — see the full list

With the rise of selective enrollment and charter schools, many public schools now outrank private — even within the city of Chicago. Taking these all into account, the online education resource Niche has unveiled last year’s list of the best public high schools in Illinois.

No. 2: Several Illinois high schools rank among best in the nation — see the full list

As always, stories about education really interested our readers. School districts and real estate go hand in hand. It’s not too late to check out the list of the best high schools in the nation.

No. 3: Which Chicago suburb has the hottest real estate market?

And although no Chicagoland suburbs cracked the top of Zillow’s list, Elk Grove was identified as having the sharpest growth with home values increasing 9.7%, quarter over quarter.

No. 4: 8 of the 10 best affordable suburbs are in Chicagoland — with Crystal Lake at No. 1

A study from StorageCafe investigated the pricing of premier suburban living — and many Illinois suburbs ranked as among the most affordable.

No. 5: The Second City is second best — in the world

We all know Chicago as the Second City. And in 2022, a Time Out survey gave that moniker a new meaning. Looking back, it’s really no surprise that this fun article got traction — Chicagoans are a proud bunch!