Grayslake 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview

Grayslake is a village in Lake County, Illinois. It is considered an exurb of the Chicagoland area, approximately 40 miles north-northwest of the city center. Best known for being a quaint village with larger cities in proximity, retirees that are looking for a close-knit community and all four seasons will surely appreciate Grayslake. 

Climate & Geography

The climate in Grayslake is humid continental, meaning summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold and often snowy. Residents can expect an average amount of rainfall, more snowfall than the national average, and approximately 192 days of sunshine each year.

The surrounding terrain is primarily made up of suburban and residential areas built on flat prarie land, dotted with nature preserves, and numerous kettle ponds and small lakes. Grays Lake is the largest lake located in the center of the village. The village is also about 12 miles south of the Wisconsin border. 

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment

Grayslake is a relaxed village with activities on the more leisure side. Shopping ranges from antique shops to fashion stores. During the warm months, active adults can visit the local parks and lakes. Brewing companies are scattered throughout the village.

The larger city of Chicago is near enough for residents to take day trips and explore a wider variety of activities. 

Cost of Living & Taxes

The overall cost of living is slightly less than the national average, though it is slightly higher than the state average. While most individual costs indexes are within 5 percent of the national average, transportation costs are a bit lower.

All forms of retirement income, including Social Security benefits, pensions, and retirement savings accounts, are exempt from income tax in the state of Illinois. Although property taxes in the state are the second highest in the country, there is a homestead exemption available to help offset this costs, and homeowners who are 65+ can apply for an additional senior homestead exemption. Sales taxes are also quite high, and Illinois does tax food and medicine, unlike most states. 

Health Care

There are three highly ranked medical centers and hospitals located within 15 miles of Grayslake. They are Advocate Condell Medical Center, Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, and Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital. Advocate Condell Medical Center is regionally ranked and ranked high performing in nephrology and four adult procedures/conditions. Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital is ranked high performing in heart failure and four adult specialties. Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital is regionally ranked and rated high performing in nephrology and three adult procedures/conditions.