229 movers in Melrose Park
What to know when moving to Melrose Park, IL
TL;DR: Melrose Park at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 42.7% of residents rent and the median household income is $64,740.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent stands at $1,194, making it a relatively affordable option for renters.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 10.4%, some residents may face financial challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 2.2% of residents use public transit for their commute.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,194 in monthly rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Melrose Park is home to a population of about 24,513, with a median household income of $64,740. The area has a relatively low education attainment rate, with only 14.7% of the residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. About 42.7% of residents are renters, which indicates a significant rental market. Additionally, the area sees a poverty rate of 10.4%, suggesting some economic disparities. The low percentage of public transit usage (2.2%) means most residents rely on cars for their daily commute.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a high concentration of public transit options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,194, while the median home value is $265,000, indicating a balanced housing market.
- With 14.7% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher, the community shows a modest education level.
- The poverty rate is 10.4%, reflecting some economic challenges within the area.
- The renter percentage is 42.7%, highlighting a significant number of residents living in rental properties.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data indicates that Illinois has a property crime rate of 1,549 per 100,000 residents, slightly higher than the national rate of 1,546.9 per 100,000. The violent crime rate stands at 245.7 per 100,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of 325.3 per 100,000. Notably, the homicide rate is at 4.5 per 100,000, which is comparable to the national average.
- Violent crime: 245.7 per 100,000 vs. national average of 325.3 per 100,000.
- Property crime: 1,549 per 100,000 vs. national average of 1,546.9 per 100,000.
- Homicide trend: Homicide rate decreased by 52.6% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).
Schools & Higher Ed
Access to education in the area is notable, with a total of 59 postsecondary institutions in the vicinity, including 55 that provide College Scorecard data. Institutions such as Lincoln College of Technology in Melrose Park and several City Colleges of Chicago in nearby areas provide a range of options for residents.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 59.
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 55.
- Notable nearby options include Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park and City Colleges of Chicago.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, residents can enjoy various outdoor activities at nearby parks and attractions. The Garfield Park Conservatory and Horner Park are both highly rated options for outdoor enjoyment.
- Garfield Park Conservatory: 4.8 stars from 10,354 reviews.
- Cinemark Melrose Park and XD: 4.4 stars from 4,162 reviews.
- Horner Park: 4.6 stars from 1,710 reviews.
Source: Google Places API.
Jobs & the Local Economy
Cook County, which includes Melrose Park, has a labor force of approximately 2,741,497, with an employment figure of 2,616,332. The unemployment rate is currently at 4.6%, indicating a stable job market.
- Unemployment rate: 4.6% as of December 2025.
- Total employed: 2,616,332.
- Total labor force: 2,741,497.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
