Happy Friday!

🏙️ Naperville is now officially Illinois’ third-largest city, edging past Joliet with a population of 153,124, according to new U.S. Census estimates.

⛅ Today’s weather: Partly cloudy with a high of 66°F (19°C).

📺 Watch this: Big things are coming to Glen Ellyn. My latest video breaks down the major growth plans reshaping the suburb. “Glen Ellyn, IL Is About to Change FOREVER (Growth Plans Revealed)” is now live.

🍴 Check out The Foodie’s Guide for this week’s best eats, and scroll down for WHAT'S HAPPENIN' IN THE 'BURBS? — your weekend events roundup. 

Let’s dive in!

 - Brandon Blankenship, Founder of Living Chicago Suburbs / Realtor with Keller Williams Premiere Properties

Events

This Weekend Events…

🏖️ Centennial Beach Opening Day

📍Location: 500 Jackson Ave., Naperville
🗓️ Date & Time: May 24 | 11am to 8pm
🎟️ Tickets: $8 - $17
🔗 More Info

🛍️ Collective Unity Farmer's Market

📍Location: Fox Park, 195 Fox Valley Center Dr., Aurora
🗓️ Date & Time: 2nd & 4th Sundays, May – September 2025 | 10am to 2pm
🎟️ Tickets: Free entry
🔗 More Info

🎖️ Naperville Memorial Day Parade

📍Location: Parade Route - East on Jackson, North on Washington, East on Benton
🗓️ Date & Time: May 26 | 10:30am
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More Info

Nothing in this section is sponsored, I will let you know when it's sponsored

News

Driving the news: Naperville has officially become Illinois' third-largest city, overtaking Joliet, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates.

Details:

• Naperville's estimated population as of July 1, 2024, is 153,124, reflecting a growth of nearly 2,000 residents from the previous year.

• Joliet's population stands at 151,837, placing it fourth in the state rankings.

• Both cities are part of the Chicago metropolitan area, which has seen overall population growth in recent years.

Why it matters: Naperville's rise in the rankings underscores its appeal as a suburban destination with strong schools, a vibrant downtown, and ample green spaces. This growth can attract more businesses and investments to the area, further boosting the local economy.

The big picture: While Chicago remains the state's largest city, suburban areas like Naperville are experiencing steady growth, reflecting broader national trends of population shifts toward suburban locales.

What’s next: As Naperville continues to grow, city planners and officials may focus on infrastructure, housing, and services to accommodate the increasing population while maintaining the city's quality of life.

The bottom line: Naperville's new status as Illinois' third-largest city highlights its ongoing development and the shifting demographics within the state.

Short Description: Naperville has overtaken Joliet to become Illinois' third-largest city, with a population of 153,124, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates.

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Food

BREAKFAST

🫐 Stray Hen Elmhurst

Stray Hen’s menu offers something for every brunch enthusiast. Craving something sweet? Try their locally-viral waffle flight. Prefer something hearty and savory to power you through the day? Try their breakfast bowls or sandwiches. Want a cup of coffee to get your morning caffeine fix? Try one of the many drinks their baristas serve from their coffee bar.

CHECK IT OUT

LUNCH

🐓 Nando's Naperville

Welcome to Nando's Naperville, home of the legendary South African flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken restaurants. Whether you're dining in, grabbing takeout, or prefer delivery, our restaurant is the best place to eat in Naperville for spicy flame-grilled chicken, flavorful sandwiches, refreshing salads and more.

CHECK IT OUT

DINNER

🥘 Ramsay's Kitchen

Experience Ramsay's Kitchen Naperville. From well-known favorites like Beef Wellington and Sticky Toffee Pudding to local cuisine with a twist, your dining experience will be like no other. 

CHECK IT OUT

Watch This

In this video, I'm telling you everything that you need to know about the MASSIVE growth coming to Glen Ellyn, IL in 2025!

Market

The real estate market in the Chicago suburbs (especially Naperville, Wheaton, and Glen Ellyn) remains active and competitive. Whether you're planning to buy or sell, having the right local expert makes all the difference.

Thinking of selling? I’ll craft a strategic marketing plan and help you price your home to attract serious buyers and get the best return.

Ready to buy? With today’s interest rates and available inventory, now could be the perfect time to make your move. I’ll help you find the right home and navigate every step of the process with confidence.

🗞️ In Other News…

• Naperville officers take to Dunkin’ rooftops to support Special Olympics

• New Vivid Creatures exhibit comes to The Morton Arboretum

• Fresh offerings planned for Naper Settlement Farmers Market

🏠 Are you thinking of buying, selling, or investing in the Chicago Suburbs? We’d love to be your Real Estate Resource of Choice. Get started here!

Brandon Blankenship Real Estate Broker
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The #1 Solo Agent with Keller Williams Premiere Properties

call or text @ 630.923.9535