💡 Thinking About Downsizing Your Naperville Home?
You’re not alone — thousands of Naperville homeowners are re-evaluating their space, lifestyle, and budget in 2025.
But one big question keeps coming up: where are downsizers actually moving?
After reviewing recent MLS data across DuPage, Will, and Kendall Counties, three areas consistently top the list — each offering something slightly different, depending on your priorities.
🏡 #3 – Wheaton: Familiar Feel, Lower Price Point
Roughly 22% of Naperville downsizers move just north to Wheaton.
It’s close enough to keep your social circle, but easier on the wallet — home prices average 10–15% lower than Naperville, and property taxes are lighter.
Townhomes and ranch-style homes near Downtown Wheaton deliver convenience and walkability without the maintenance burden. You’re still near Metra, restaurants, and parks — just spending less to enjoy it.
✅ Best for: Sellers who want to simplify maintenance but keep the same community vibe.
🏠 #2 – Plainfield: New Homes, Lower Taxes, Bigger Value
Plainfield has become the go-to for Naperville sellers who want something new.
With a median price around $430,000 (compared to Naperville’s $610,000), downsizers are cashing out equity to buy new-construction ranches and townhomes while trimming $1,000–$1,500 a year in taxes.
Builders such as M/I Homes and D.R. Horton are offering limited-time incentives — including 2.875% first-year interest rates and closing-cost credits — that make moving now a strategic financial decision.
🎥 Want to see which builders are running those promos right now?
Watch my video “Plainfield Builders Offering 2.875% Rates?!” for a full breakdown and local examples.
✅ Best for: Sellers using Naperville equity to buy something brand-new and low-stress.
🌳 #1 – Oswego: Space, Savings, and a Slower Pace
Oswego tops the list — nearly one in three Naperville sellers moving locally end up here.
Why? It offers newer homes, smaller payments, and quieter living without leaving the western suburbs.
The median price sits near $410,000, HOA fees are modest, and communities like Ashcroft Place and Grande Park cater to both downsizers and 55+ buyers.
You’ll find newer ranches, low-maintenance townhomes, and flexible layouts built in the last decade — not fixer-uppers.
🎥 Coming soon: “Oswego New Construction: How to Buy Before You Sell.”
I’ll show how to time both transactions so you don’t carry two mortgages or miss your next dream home.
✅ Best for: Sellers ready to slow down, save money, and stay close to family.
💬 The Bottom Line
Whether you prefer Wheaton’s walkability, Plainfield’s new builds, or Oswego’s balance of space and savings, downsizing in 2025 is about freedom and flexibility — not loss.
The key is protecting your equity and planning your next step before listing.
Get Your Free Naperville Home Valuation
Before you make a move, find out what your current home could sell for in today’s market.
I’ll send a personalized report with real-time data — not an automated Zestimate — and help you map your downsizing strategy.
👉 Start here: https://gimpertrealty.com/go/naperville-home-value/
📩 Sean Gimpert | O’Neil Property Group
📞 630-315-0723 | sean@oneilpropertygroup.com
❓ FAQs
Q1: Where are most Naperville downsizers moving in 2025?
Most sellers are choosing Wheaton, Plainfield, and Oswego — all within 20 minutes of Naperville and offering smaller, lower-cost homes with strong community amenities.
Q2: Why is Oswego so popular with Naperville sellers?
It combines affordability, newer construction, and proximity to Naperville. Many appreciate the quieter pace and newer housing stock built for single-level living.
Q3: When’s the best time to downsize in Naperville?
If your home is already move-in ready, the low-inventory winter and early-spring months can yield faster sales and stronger offers before new listings flood the market.
Q4: Do I need to buy before I sell?
Not necessarily — many homeowners use a bridge loan, sale contingency, or rent-back agreement to time the transition without carrying two mortgages.
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Request Your Free Home Valuation
START HERE: Find out what your home is really worth in today’s market. Whether you’re thinking about selling now or just curious, we’ll show you your property’s true market value — and your best options to sell for top dollar or cash.

