What to know when moving to Berwyn, IL
TL;DR: Berwyn at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 35.9% of residents are renters and the median household income is $73,993.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,168, making it a potentially affordable option for city dwellers.
- The Reality Check:
- Approximately 10.8% of the population lives below the poverty line.
- Commute:
- Only 7.4% use public transit for their commute.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for around $1,168 per month for rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Berwyn is a city with a population of about 63,867 where 83% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and 25.2% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. With a median household income of $73,993, it indicates a stable economic environment. The area has a significant renter population at 35.9%, which might appeal to those looking for a dynamic community. However, be prepared for a limited public transit infrastructure, as only 7.4% of residents rely on it for commuting.
Probably not your spot if: you are looking for a strong public transit system, as car dependence is noticeable.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,168, making it a manageable option compared to other nearby areas.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $277,800, which may provide good investment opportunities.
- Approximately 10.8% of the population lives below the poverty line, indicating some economic challenges.
- Renter percentage is 35.9%, suggesting a balanced housing market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Illinois, the state-level crime rates show a downward trend across several categories over the past few years, indicating a potential improvement in safety.
- Violent crime rate is 245.7 per 100,000, which is 24.5% lower than the national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime rate is 1,549 per 100,000, slightly higher than the national average of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has dropped 52.6% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).
Schools & Higher Ed
Berwyn residents have access to a range of educational institutions within Cook County, with 89 total postsecondary schools available nearby.
- 82 institutions provide data through the College Scorecard.
- Nearby options include Adler University and Chicago State University, among others.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Cook County experiences an annual precipitation of approximately 18.7 inches, with around 45 rainy days throughout the year. There are no recorded snow days, indicating a milder winter climate.
- Parks worth checking out nearby include Garfield Park Conservatory (4.8 stars, 10,354 reviews) and Veterans Park (4.7 stars, 234 reviews).
- Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (4.7 stars, 34,538 reviews) is also a notable nearby option.
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Cook County, the unemployment rate stands at 4.6% as of December 2025, with a labor force of approximately 2.74 million residents.
- Employed population is about 2,616,332.
- Labor force participation reflects a strong local economy.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.