What to know when moving to Mount Prospect, IL
TL;DR: Mount Prospect at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 48.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 30% of households are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $104,168, providing a solid financial base for families and individuals.
- The Reality Check:
- 4.2% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,456 per month in rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Mount Prospect features a population of 55,989, characterized by a median household income of $104,168. Nearly half of the residents have achieved a bachelor's degree, reflecting a well-educated community. The rental market is substantial, with 30% of households renting their homes. However, with only 4.2% of residents utilizing public transit, this is a car-dependent area, making vehicle ownership almost essential.
Probably not your spot if: you prefer a location with robust public transportation options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,456, while the median home value is $376,300.
- 48.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, contributing to a highly educated community.
- Poverty rate stands at 6.1%, indicating a relatively stable economic environment.
- 30% of households are renters, revealing a balanced housing market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Illinois has a property crime rate of 1,549 per 100,000 residents, slightly above the national average of 1,547. However, this rate has decreased by 16.1% since 2022. The violent crime rate stands at 245.7 per 100,000, which is notably lower than the national rate of 325.3 and has seen a significant drop of 28.7% over the same period.
- Violent crime: 245.7 per 100,000 vs. national 325.3, down 28.7% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,549 per 100,000 vs. national 1,547, down 16.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate decreased by 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
Mount Prospect has access to 27 postsecondary institutions in the surrounding areas, with 22 located in Cook County. This provides a strong educational framework for residents seeking further education.
- Postsecondary institutions: 27 total.
- With College Scorecard data: 26 institutions.
- Nearby notable options include Dominican University and City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Although climate data is unavailable, Mount Prospect offers several parks and outdoor spaces for residents. Popular spots include:
- Lake Park - 4.7 stars from 1,327 reviews
- Gallery Park - 4.7 stars from 1,000 reviews
- Deer Grove Forest Preserve - 4.7 stars from 975 reviews
- Prairie Lakes Park - 4.7 stars from 844 reviews
Source: Google Places API (New).
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Cook County, the unemployment rate is currently 4.6%, with a labor force of 2,741,497 individuals. The total employment stands at 2,616,332, illustrating a robust job market for residents.
- Unemployment rate: 4.6% as of December 2025.
- Employed individuals: 2,616,332.
- Labor force: 2,741,497.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.