A couple approaching retirement once sought advice, expressing that clearing snow from their driveway each winter was becoming increasingly difficult. They have lived in their single-family home in Arlington Heights for over 25 years, and during heavy snowfall years, they had to shovel multiple times a day. Following this couple's experience reveals the common concerns retirees face in suburban areas near Chicago. The average home price in Arlington Heights is around $401,290 (as of June 2026), with the median price for single-family homes rising to $484,000. In contrast, condos and townhomes typically range from $200,000 to $300,000, highlighting a significant price difference.

Winter heating costs also need to be considered. The average electric bill in Illinois is about $184.13 per month (based on an average of 772 kilowatt-hours at a rate of 23.85 cents per kilowatt-hour), and winter gas heating costs add an additional $110 to $160 per month. Recently, Nicor Gas supply rates have increased by up to 50% in some areas compared to the previous year, making the fixed costs of maintaining a larger single-family home more burdensome during winter.

This couple was drawn to the idea of moving to a townhome, where snow removal and roof maintenance could be managed within the HOA fees. However, they must consider that the monthly HOA fee would become a new fixed cost. While single-family homes have no management fees, significant expenses like roof or boiler replacements can arise unexpectedly.

Property taxes should be assessed based on Cook County standards. Cook County's combined tax rate is between 5.5% and 8% of the EAV, resulting in an effective tax rate of about 1.8% to 2.5% based on actual market value. Homeowners aged 65 and older qualify for the Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption, which allows for an $8,000 deduction from the taxable value, saving an average of about $300 annually, and when combined with the Homeowner Exemption, savings can reach up to $750.

Active senior communities are also worth considering as an alternative. Many 55+ communities, which require residents to be at least 55 years old, often include snow removal and landscaping in their management fees, significantly reducing the burden of winter snow removal. However, since the level of management fees and amenities varies by community, it's advisable to check each item before signing a contract.

If moving to Arlington Heights from another state, it's good to be aware that the property tax burden in Cook County may feel higher than in their previous residence. Neighborhoods with good school districts tend to have higher home prices and property taxes, and since school district boundaries frequently change, it's wise to verify the assigned school for a given address before purchasing. For investment properties, it's also important to factor in the risks of vacancies and heating costs during winter.

Arlington Heights is conveniently located near O'Hare International Airport and the Metra train station, making it easy to visit children in other states. However, in years with heavy snowfall, snow removal and driveway maintenance can be a recurring task throughout the winter, so if maintaining a single-family home, it's practical to budget for snow removal service costs. Older single-family homes should also be checked for the condition of the boiler and window insulation. Poor insulation can lead to significantly higher gas bills in winter, so it's important to compare replacement costs with those of townhomes. Upgrading to double-pane windows can noticeably reduce winter heating costs.

Ultimately, this couple decided to move to a townhome, but they made sure to verify the scope of the snow removal services and any special assessments from the management before signing the contract. While they would be relieved from the burden of snow removal, it's important to acknowledge that the monthly HOA fee would become a new fixed cost. This article is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult with a tax advisor or real estate professional before finalizing any contracts.