226 movers in Lake Forest
What to know when moving to Lake Forest, IL
Lake Forest at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated ZIP where 81.2% hold a bachelor's degree and only 10.8% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $225,551, significantly above the national average.
- The Reality Check:
- Median gross rent is $2,321, which may be high for some budgets.
- Commute:
- 12.3% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $2,321 monthly rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Lake Forest has a population of about 20,957, with a strong educational background reflected in the 81.2% of residents holding at least a bachelor's degree. The community is predominantly homeowners, with only 10.8% renting, which may contribute to a more settled atmosphere. The median household income is notably high at $225,551, indicating a well-off demographic.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for affordable rent, as the median gross rent is $2,321.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $2,321, reflecting the area's upscale housing market.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $899,200, which is quite high compared to national averages.
- Education level is high with 81.2% holding a bachelor's degree, contributing to a well-informed community.
- Poverty rate stands at 3.9%, indicating a lower-than-average level of economic hardship.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Illinois, crime rates have shown some improvement in recent years. Property crime has decreased by 16.1% since 2022, with a state annual rate of 1,549 per 100,000 residents, which is slightly higher than the national average. Violent crime has also decreased by 28.7%, with a state annual rate of 245.7 per 100,000, which is lower than the national average of 325.3 per 100,000.
- Violent crime: 245.7 per 100,000 in Illinois vs. 325.3 nationally, down 28.7% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,549 per 100,000 in Illinois vs. 1,546.9 nationally, down 16.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 52.6% since 2022, currently at 4.5 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).
Schools & Higher Ed
Lake Forest provides access to a total of 11 postsecondary institutions in the nearby area, primarily within Lake County. Notable schools include:
- Lake Forest College
- Lake Forest Graduate School of Management
- College of Lake County in Grayslake
- Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in North Chicago
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, Lake Forest is surrounded by several attractive outdoor options, perfect for enjoying the region's natural beauty.
- Independence Grove Forest Preserve - 4.8 stars from 3,637 reviews
- Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve - 4.8 stars from 1,315 reviews
- Century Park Arboretum - 4.7 stars from 1,005 reviews
- Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve - 4.7 stars from 764 reviews
Source: Google Places API (New).
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Lake County, the employment landscape features a labor force of 360,967, with an employment figure of 340,180. The unemployment rate is 5.8% as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 5.8% in December 2025.
- Employed: 340,180 individuals.
- Labor force: 360,967 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
