Moving to Chicago from Seattle. Looking for the suburb most like Ballard.

Me, my wife, dog and two year old (with another baby on the way) are relocating to Chicago from Seattle. We currently live in Ballard and really love it but want to head back to the midwest to be near family. What suburb is most like Ballard? We want the same mix of city and family friendly... but liberal. Are Oak Park or La Grange good options? I will work from home but also from an office in the loop. Thanks!