East Highlands - Downtown Naperville

Tucked just south-east of downtown Naperville, the East Highlands neighborhood offers a rare mix of peaceful suburban living with quick access to Downtown Naperville perks. It's known for tree-lined streets, luxury homes, and a true community feel. One standout feature? The DuPage River Trail cuts right through the area, giving residents a safe, scenic route for walking, biking, or just clearing their heads. Even though Naperville is a city of nearly 150,000, East Highlands feels like a quiet pocket—with low traffic and million-dollar homes that border nature preserves, it's a favorite for those who want the best of both worlds.

East Highlands: Central Naperville Prestige & Location

A foundational neighborhood where mid-century character and modern custom builds create a walkable downtown lifestyle.

Key Builders
Autumn Homes, DJK, Lakewest, M House

Vintage
1954 (Original) – 2026+ (Custom)

SqFt Range
1,700 – 7,000+

Est. Tax Rate
~2.1% (Avg. $18k+)

The Architectural Evolution

Originally developed in 1954 by Harold Moser, East Highlands was Naperville’s first major commercial subdivision. Today, it is a masterclass in redevelopment. You will find original Mid-century Modern ranches sitting alongside 6,000 sq ft custom estates. This diversity ensures that the neighborhood feels established rather than manufactured.

The Downtown Hack

Residents here enjoy the "Inner Circle" perk. While visitors struggle with parking at the Naperville Riverwalk or the Main Street shops, East Highlands residents often utilize the neighborhood sidewalks or the riverwalk extension to walk into town in under 10 minutes. For commuters, the Downtown Metra station is less than a mile away.

Centralized Living

Your grocery runs are split between the Gartner / Naper Road Jewel-Osco & Mariano's and the Trader Joes and other local boutique shops downtown. For outdoor recreation, Veterans Park serves as the neighborhood hangout for weekend basketball and playground trips. Residents also have the distinct advantage of being minutes from Centennial Beach and the historic Naper Settlement.

For Move-Up Buyers

East Highlands is the ultimate move-up destination for those who want District 203 prestige (Highlands Elementary, Kennedy Jr High, Naperville Central) without moving to the outskirts. Custom builds by Autumn Homes or M House provide the gourmet kitchens and spa-like primary suites that rival any new subdivision.

For Downsizers

The neighborhood’s original ranch inventory is highly prized. These homes offer a manageable footprint for residents who want to stay near downtown and their social networks while reducing maintenance. Some choose to fully renovate these "Moser originals" to create high-end, single-level sanctuaries, or consider one of the many upscale Condo options near Downtown Naperville.

Local Resident FAQ

Q: Is there an HOA in East Highlands?

A: No. East Highlands is not a traditional planned development with a mandatory HOA, which allows for greater architectural freedom and lower monthly carry costs.

Q: Are the newer custom homes built on larger lots?

A: Most lots are approximately 1/4 acre to 1/3 acre. Because the neighborhood was designed with winding streets rather than a grid, lot shapes vary, often providing deeper backyards than typical downtown parcels.

IL > Naperville

East Highlands

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$1,701,983

Average Sales Price

Total Listings

Walk Score

LISTINGS

MORE LISTINGS

1/37 37

New

$1,620,000

5 Beds5.5 Baths4,472 SqFt

427 S Sleight ST, Naperville, IL 60540

Single Family Home

Listed by William White of Baird & Warner

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1/63 63

Active

$2,547,000

5 Beds4 Baths4,400 SqFt

707 Thornwood DR, Naperville, IL 60540

Single Family Home

Listed by Trevor Pauling of john greene, Realtor

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1/67 67

Active

$1,975,000

5 Beds5.5 Baths4,346 SqFt

611 S Loomis ST, Naperville, IL 60540

Single Family Home

Listed by Margaret Giffin of Keller Williams Premiere Properties

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