Living in St. John, Indiana: What Every Homebuyer Needs to Know
“St. John isn’t just one of Northwest Indiana’s best-kept secrets — it’s where suburban charm meets upscale living.”- Michael Elkmann | REALTOR®
Located in Lake County and just a short drive from the Illinois border, St. John, Indiana offers a perfect blend of small-town comfort and upscale amenities. Consistently ranked as one of the safest and most desirable towns in Indiana, St. John is a magnet for families, professionals, and retirees seeking space, quality schools, and proximity to Chicagoland without the congestion.
Whether you're relocating from out of state or moving within the Region, this guide will help you decide if St. John is where you’ll find your next dream home.
📍Why St. John?
St. John combines:
Low crime rates
Excellent schools
Spacious, modern homes
Family-friendly parks and trails
A tight-knit community feel
It’s also less than an hour to downtown Chicago, making it ideal for commuters who want a peaceful suburban life with big city access.
🏘️ Popular Neighborhoods in St. John
The Gates of St. John
A massive, master-planned community with beautiful newer construction homes, The Gates offers walking trails, ponds, parks, and top-tier curb appeal.
Lake Hills
Known for its scenic views and peaceful vibe, Lake Hills offers custom homes and a relaxed lifestyle just minutes from downtown St. John.
The Preserve
This upscale neighborhood blends luxury homes with green space and water features — perfect for buyers looking for premium living.
🎓 Schools and Education
St. John is served by the Lake Central School Corporation, which is well-regarded in Indiana. Schools like Lake Central High School, Clark Middle School, and St. John Elementary consistently receive high marks.
There are also excellent private and parochial school options nearby, adding flexibility for families seeking alternative education.
🛍️ Shopping, Dining & Recreation
St. John has grown in the past decade to include new shops, restaurants, and services. Residents enjoy:
Locally owned restaurants & bakeries
Shops at Schillton Hills
Civic Park & Heron Lake Park for walking, fishing, and play
Access to the Erie Lackawanna Trail for biking and running
Nearby golf courses like Palmira Golf Club
And when you want more, you're a quick trip to shopping hubs in Schererville, Crown Point, and even downtown Chicago.
🏡 Real Estate in St. John
The real estate market in St. John is strong and steadily growing. The town features:
Spacious single-family homes with large yards
Luxury homes and estates
New construction with modern amenities
Ranch-style homes ideal for downsizers
Average Home Price (as of 2025): $450,000+
Homes sell quickly, especially in popular subdivisions, so working with a local expert (👋 that’s me!) gives you a competitive edge.
💡Who is St. John Perfect For?
St. John fits a variety of homebuyers:
✅ Upsizing families looking for more space and great schools
✅ Chicagoland commuters ready to trade city hustle for suburban ease
✅ Downsizers seeking ranch homes or peaceful neighborhoods
✅ Luxury buyers wanting high-end finishes and privacy
✅ First-time buyers entering a strong, stable community
🛠️ What to Know Before Buying in St. John
Property taxes are generally lower than Illinois
Zoning and HOAs may vary — ask about restrictions before buying
Homes sell fast — be pre-approved and ready to act
Commuting to Illinois? The new expansions to U.S. Route 41 and 231 make it easier than ever
Thinking About Moving to St. John?
You're not alone — it's one of the most sought-after towns in Northwest Indiana. Whether you're relocating, moving up, or buying your very first home, I can help guide you through the process with insider expertise and a no-pressure approach.
👉 Find additional information and resources on my Buyers/Sellers page.
📩 Ready to explore homes in St. John? Contact Michael Elkmann | REALTOR® HERE
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