256 movers in Park Forest
What to know when moving to Park Forest, IL
Park Forest at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with 35.1% renters and a median household income of $63,132.
- The Major Draw:
- The nearby Forest Preserves of Cook County, rated 4.5 stars by 678 users.
- The Reality Check:
- A poverty rate of 17.1% might be a concern for some residents.
- Commute:
- 7% of residents use public transit for their commute.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median gross rent of $1,341.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Park Forest is home to around 21,123 residents, with a median household income of $63,132. The community has a 35.1% renter population, suggesting a mix of renters and homeowners. Approximately 26.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to a moderately educated environment. However, with a poverty rate of 17.1%, some residents may face economic challenges.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a low poverty rate or a higher percentage of homeowners.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,341, which may influence your budget planning.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $106,100, indicating a more affordable housing market.
- With 17.1% of residents living below the poverty line, economic diversity is a factor.
- About 35.1% of the population are renters, adding to the community's rental market dynamics.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Illinois, property crime rates are at 1,549 per 100,000 residents, slightly above the national average of 1,547. Violent crime rates are lower at 245.7 per 100,000 compared to 325.3 nationally. Notably, the state has experienced a 28.7% decrease in violent crime since 2022, showcasing a downward trend.
- Violent crime: 245.7 per 100,000 vs. national average of 325.3, down 28.7% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,549 per 100,000 vs. national average of 1,547, down 16.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 52.6% since 2022, now at 4.5 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).
Schools & Higher Ed
Park Forest has access to 14 postsecondary institutions in the nearby region, with 12 located in Illinois and 2 in Indiana. Notable institutions include Governors State University and South Suburban College, both located within Cook County.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 14
- Institutions in Cook County: 9
- Nearby institutions: Governors State University, South Suburban College
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While climate data is unavailable, residents enjoy various outdoor amenities. The nearby Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park has a 3.9-star rating from 1,078 reviews, and the Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve is highly rated at 4.8 stars from 594 reviews.
- Forest Preserves of Cook County - 4.5 stars (678 reviews)
- Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve - 4.8 stars (594 reviews)
- Dolphin Lake Park - 4.6 stars (472 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 approximately 2.74 million. About 1.25 million individuals are unemployed, indicating a significant number of job seekers in the area.
- Unemployment rate: 4.6%
- Employed individuals: 2,616,332
- Labor force: 2,741,497
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
