What to know when moving to Glendale Heights, IL
TL;DR: Glendale Heights at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 35.9% of residents are renters and the median household income is $81,996.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,558, making it a cost-effective option in the Chicago suburbs.
- The Reality Check:
- Public transit usage is low, with only 1.5% commuting this way.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 32.5 inches of rain each year, with about 109 rainy days.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Glendale Heights is a suburban area with a population of about 32,954. The median household income of $81,996 reflects a stable economic environment, while 30% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a moderately educated community. With a renter percentage of 35.9, there are ample rental options available. However, only 1.5% of the population utilizes public transit, suggesting that most residents rely on cars for commuting.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a strong public transit system or are looking for a densely populated urban experience.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,558, while the median owner-occupied home value is $249,300.
- 30% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to the area's educated workforce.
- The poverty rate stands at 9.5%, indicating a generally stable economic environment.
- Only 1.5% of the population commutes via public transit, highlighting a car-dependent lifestyle.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime statistics for Illinois indicate a decrease in both violent and property crime rates over recent years, suggesting improvements in safety.
- Violent crime: Illinois has a state annual rate of 245.7 per 100,000 residents, which is 24.5% lower than the national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime: The state annual rate is 1,549 per 100,000, slightly above the national average of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 52.6% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).
Schools & Higher Ed
Glendale Heights has access to 26 postsecondary institutions within the surrounding area, providing a range of educational opportunities.
- Notable institutions include Tricoci University of Beauty Culture and College of DuPage.
- Nearby options also include Benedictine University and Elmhurst University.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
DuPage County experiences an average annual precipitation of 32.5 inches, with around 109 rainy days each year. Snowfall averages about 2.1 inches annually, occurring over approximately 20 days.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Cantigny Park (4.8 stars, 5,850 reviews)
- Lilacia Park (4.8 stars, 2,401 reviews)
- Herrick Lake Forest Preserve (4.7 stars, 1,908 reviews)
- Ty Warner Park (4.7 stars, 1,143 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
DuPage County has a robust labor market, with a total employment of 496,833 as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate stands at 3.7%, which is relatively low.
- The labor force consists of approximately 515,974 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.