What to know when moving to Streamwood, IL
Streamwood at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated community where 29.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and only 11.5% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income of $101,017, which is higher than many surrounding areas.
- The Reality Check:
- With 1.5% using public transit, you will likely need a car for commuting.
- Top Tip:
- Median gross rent is $1,849, so budget accordingly.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Streamwood features a relatively stable population of about 38,965 residents, characterized by a median household income of $101,017. The community leans towards homeowners, with only 11.5% of residents renting. The education level is notable, with 29.3% of the population holding a bachelor's degree or higher. However, public transit is underutilized, with only 1.5% of residents commuting via this mode, indicating a likely reliance on personal vehicles for transportation.
Probably not your spot if: You prefer a strong public transit system, as the low usage suggests a car-dependent lifestyle.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,849, while the median home value stands at $258,300, making it a relatively affordable option compared to many metropolitan areas.
- The education level in the community is reflected by 29.3% holding a bachelor's degree, with a poverty rate of 9.8%.
- Only 1.5% of residents utilize public transit, suggesting that a car is essential for getting around.
- Homeownership is prevalent, with a renter percentage of just 11.5%.
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 rate of 1,547. However, the state's violent crime rate is 245.7 per 100,000, which is lower than the national average of 325.3.
- Violent crime: 245.7 per 100,000 vs. national 325.3, with a decreasing trend of -28.7% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,549 per 100,000 vs. national 1,546.9, with a decrease of -16.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate has 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
Access to higher education is available in the surrounding area, with a total of 12 institutions within Cook and nearby counties.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 12
- Notable local options include Ambria College of Nursing in Hoffman Estates and William Rainey Harper College in Palatine.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Cook County experiences an annual precipitation of approximately 18.7 inches, with around 45 rainy days each year. There are no recorded snow days, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- The Water Works Indoor Water Park - 4.4 stars (1,216 reviews)
- Hoosier Grove Park - 4.6 stars (394 reviews)
- Sunny Hill Park - 4.6 stars (306 reviews)
- Streamwood Park District's Park Place Family Recreation Center - 4.4 stars (320 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Cook County, the unemployment rate is currently 4.6% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 2,741,497 and total employment at 2,616,332.
- Unemployment rate: 4.6% in December 2025.
- Employment: 2,616,332.
- Labor force: 2,741,497.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.