Considering a move to Aurora’s Far Southeast neighborhood? Located south of Montgomery Road and stretching toward Eola Road and Route 30, this part of Aurora is beloved by residents for its blend of family-friendly amenities, varied housing options, safe streets, and a welcoming, tight-knit community vibe. Whether you’re a young family, a working professional, or downsizing for retirement, Far Southeast offers comfort, convenience, and a sense of belonging that draws people from all walks of life. Here’s what it’s really like to live here, from someone who’s experienced it firsthand.
A Welcoming Community Vibe
Far Southeast has always had that “friendly neighbor next door” atmosphere. People smile and wave when you walk by; it’s not uncommon for neighbors to organize block parties on streets like Barrington Drive or rolling cul-de-sacs near Waubonsie Valleys High School. The community is suburban but far from isolating. There’s a healthy blend of long-time homeowners and new arrivals from nearby cities, making it easy for newcomers to settle in and get involved.
You’ll notice this sense of connection in the various homeowners’ associations, which regularly host garage sales, holiday gatherings, and neighborhood clean-up days. Areas like the Oakhurst and Wheatlands subdivisions are especially known for their active Facebook groups and community newsletters.
Varied Types of Housing
One of the best aspects of Far Southeast Aurora is the diversity of housing.
- Single-family homes: Traditional two-stories with attached garages are tucked into quiet subdivisions like Oakhurst North and Wheatlands, with tree-lined streets perfect for evening strolls.
- Townhouses and condos: First-time buyers or those looking for low-maintenance living will find affordable options near Inverness Drive and Walden Circle. Communities like Oakhurst North’s townhome clusters offer communal pools and shared green spaces.
- Rentals: While more limited, there are well-kept apartment complexes such as Fox Pointe and Orchard Village, providing more flexibility for renters.
Homes here offer generous yards and plenty of interior space, with many properties facing open greens or neighborhood ponds—a big draw for families and anyone who values privacy and room to grow.
Walkability and Getting Around
Far Southeast isn’t the most “walkable” neighborhood in a strict urban sense, but you’ll find plenty of interconnected sidewalks, wide residential streets, and bike paths—especially on routes like Eola Road and 87th Street. The Prairie Path extension cuts right through, making it popular with joggers and cyclists.
For daily errands, most folks hop in the car, but it’s a quick drive to major shopping locations like the Fox Valley Mall or grocery stores along Eola or Ogden Avenue. If you value convenience, living near the intersection of Eola Road and Montgomery Road puts you close to everything—without sacrificing the peace and quiet of residential living.
Top-Notch Schools and Family Friendliness
Far Southeast’s reputation for great schools is a real draw. The area is mainly served by the coveted Indian Prairie School District 204, with neighborhood favorites including:
- Gombert Elementary (off Inverness Drive)—praised for its dedicated staff and active PTA
- Owen Elementary (off Ogden Ave)
- Waubonsie Valley High School (off Eola Road)—a large, diverse high school with strong academics, athletics, and arts
Families love the safe, slow-traffic streets, plentiful playgrounds, and the sheer number of kids out playing together. Young families often share that the sense of safety—kids biking to nearby parks, families walking together in the evenings—is a major reason they put down roots here.
Parks and Green Spaces
One of Far Southeast’s best features is its abundant parks:
- Waubonsie Lake Park: With its winding trails, fishing spots, wooded groves, and wide-open fields, it’s perfect for dog walking, morning runs, or family picnics. The playgrounds here are always busy after school lets out.
- Oakhurst Forest Preserve: Nestled along Fifth Avenue, this preserve has trails shaded by mature trees and a serene lake, making it a favorite for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
- Wheatlands Park: Right in the heart of the Wheatlands subdivision, this local gem has sports fields, a splash pad in summer, and a central pavilion often used for birthday parties.
The neighborhood’s commitment to green space means most homes are just a short walk or bike ride from a park—something parents and outdoor enthusiasts genuinely appreciate.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a point of pride in Far Southeast. Aurora maintains a proactive police presence, and residents look out for each other. The family atmosphere, combined with active neighborhood watches, adds an extra layer of security. Streets like Station Boulevard and Long Grove Drive are well-lit, and speed humps enforce calm traffic. Ask any resident, and you’ll hear stories of neighbors alerting each other to concerns via group chats or Facebook pages—a real “it takes a village” approach.
Proximity to Downtown, Employment, and Transportation
Far Southeast Aurora’s location is ideal for commuters. It’s about a 10-15 minute drive to the Route 59 Metra station for express trains to downtown Chicago—an attractive option for city workers seeking a suburban home life. Access to I-88 via Eola Road is quick and convenient for those working in Aurora, Naperville, or the western suburbs.
While you’re a bit removed from the bustle of downtown Aurora (about a 20-minute drive), the tradeoff is larger lots and quieter neighborhoods. Shopping, dining, and entertainment at Fox Valley and the strip malls along Ogden and Eola are a short trip away, making errands and outings easy.
What Residents Love Most
Ask a handful of Far Southeast residents what they love most, and a clear pattern emerges:
- The sense of community—neighbors know each other, kids make instant friends, and there’s always someone willing to lend a hand.
- Spacious homes and well-kept surroundings—everyone takes pride in their property.
- Outstanding schools and family-friendly parks.
- The perfect balance: suburban serenity but close enough to all the best Aurora and Naperville have to offer.
If you’re looking for suburban comfort paired with a true neighborhood spirit, living in Far Southeast Aurora might just feel like coming home.