Park Forest village
Illinois
Nestled just south of Chicago, Park Forest offers a compelling alternative for those seeking affordability without sacrificing community. With a population of over 21,000, this village provides a strong sense of place, a key factor in its enduring appeal. The most striking advantage is undoubtedly the housing market; the median home value here is a remarkable $94,700, a fraction of the national average. This incredible affordability, combined with the village's reputation for safety and its commitment to public spaces, creates a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike. The lifestyle is relaxed, centered around local events and the well-maintained parks, making it a place where neighbors greet each other and community bonds thrive.
From an investment perspective, Park Forest presents a unique opportunity. While the median household income of $58,907 is slightly below the national average, the extremely low cost of entry into the housing market means that homeownership remains within reach for a broader segment of the population. The village is well-suited for first-time homebuyers, young families, and those seeking a more manageable cost of living without sacrificing proximity to the amenities and employment opportunities of the greater Chicago area. The strong sense of community and the commitment to maintaining the village's character suggest long-term stability and potential for appreciation, making it a smart choice for those looking to invest in a place to call home.
Park Forest village, Illinois at a Glance
Park Forest village is a city in Illinois with a population of approximately 21,042. The median home value is $94,700 and the median household income is $58,907. It has a Walk Score of 0 out of 100, indicating car dependency. The violent crime rate is 1.2 per 1,000 residents, which is 67% below the national average. Air quality is rated Good. The overall climate risk is rated as "Relatively Moderate." Median rent is $1,354 per month. Data sourced from the US Census Bureau, FBI Crime Data Explorer, EPA, Walk Score, and FEMA.
Median Home Value
$94,700
Median Income
$58,907
Population
21,042
Walk Score
0
Air Quality
AQI 43
Good
Climate Risk
Relatively Moderate
Fair
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- Population
- 21,042
- Median Age
- N/A
- Median Household Income
- $58,907
21% below nat'l avg
- Bachelor's Degree+
- N/A
- Poverty Rate
- 17.3%
40% above nat'l avg
- Median Home Value
- $94,700
66% below nat'l avg
- Median Rent
- $1,354
16% above nat'l avg
- Homeownership Rate
- 90.0%
37% above nat'l avg
- Affordability Index
- 218
118% above nat'l avg
- Violent Crime Rate
- 1.2 per 1K
67% below nat'l avg
- Property Crime Rate
- 3.7 per 1K
81% below nat'l avg
- AQI
- 43
Near nat'l avg
- Category
- Good
- Overall Risk
- Relatively Moderate
- Risk Score
- 73.10
Top Hazards
- Overall
- Quiet
- Road Traffic
- N/A
- Aviation
- N/A
- Rail
- N/A
- Electricity Rate
- 15.0¢/kWh
10% below nat'l avg
- Est. Monthly Electric
- $135
Near nat'l avg
- Total Schools
- 2
- Elementary
- 1
- Middle
- 0
- High School
- 1
- Avg. Enrollment
- 449
- Student-Teacher Ratio
- 15.2:1
- Free/Reduced Lunch
- 23.1%
- Title I Schools
- 0%
Student Demographics
Nearby Schools
- Unemployment Rate
- 8.4%
127% above nat'l avg
- Poverty Rate
- 17.3%
40% above nat'l avg
Weather & Climate in Park Forest village
Avg High
63°F
Avg Low
45°F
Annual Rainfall
37.7"
Avg Humidity
69%
Political Landscape
→ Politically stable
Based on McLean County county-level presidential election data
Culture & Things to Do in Park Forest village
Park Forest Art Fair
Annual art fair featuring local and regional artists.
Summer Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts held throughout the summer months.
Holiday Parade
Annual parade celebrating the holiday season.
Juneteenth Celebration
Community event celebrating Juneteenth with music, food, and activities.
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