Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Des Plaines, IL
Thinking of moving to Des Plaines, IL? With a population of about 58,000, Des Plaines offers affordable living with median home prices around $340,000 and average rents of $1,350. Residents benefit from low crime rates, a reasonable average commute of 28 minutes, and solid schools like Maine West High. The city enjoys all four seasons, over 50% sunny days, and easy access to healthcare and public transit—making it a great spot for families and commuters alike.
Demographics - Des Plaines, IL
Demographics - Des Plaines, IL
Des Plaines is home to approximately 58,000 residents, offering a diverse community where nearly one-quarter speak a language other than English at home. The median age is just over 43, and the city features a mix of ethnic backgrounds, with a significant Asian and Hispanic presence. Its balanced gender ratio and moderate population density create a welcoming suburban environment.
Population:
58,364
Density:
4,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
23.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
66.5%
Black:
2.7%
Asian:
13.8%
Others:
17.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Des Plaines, IL?
Living in Des Plaines comes with a cost of living index slightly above the national average, mainly due to housing and transportation expenses. With median home values around $340,000 and average rents at $1,350, the city is an accessible choice for families and professionals. Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and healthcare remain competitive for the Chicago metro area.
Median House Value:
$340,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,410
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$800
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
111.6
Grocery:
103.2
Housing:
109.7
Utilities:
101.4
Transportation:
112.0
Health Care:
103.8
Miscellaneous:
99.0
Crime
Is Des Plaines, IL a safe place to live?
Des Plaines is considered a safe suburb, reporting a low violent crime rate of 134 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate that keeps chances of incidents well below national averages. Residents enjoy peace of mind, with the likelihood of being impacted by violent crime at just 1 in 746. The overall crime index suggests a stable and secure community for families.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
134
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,176
Crime Index:
1,310
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 746
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 85
Weather
What is the weather like in Des Plaines, IL year-round?
Des Plaines experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 17°F and warm summers reaching up to 85°F. The city receives about 37 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine over half the year. This climate offers a pleasant mix for those who appreciate distinct seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The city features a healthy household income median of over $82,000 and a low poverty rate under 7%, reflecting its strong middle-class character. Most residents commute around 28 minutes, and public transit is used by 13% of locals, making it commuter-friendly. High educational attainment and a low unemployment rate contribute to a vibrant, stable neighborhood atmosphere.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$82,215
Family Income:
$97,400
Per Capita Income:
$39,880
Income Male:
$53,000
Income Female:
$41,000
Poverty Rate:
6.9%
Non English Speakers:
23.2%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
13.1%
Commute Time:
28.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.1%
Bachelors or More:
36.8%
Education
How are the schools in Des Plaines, IL?
Des Plaines offers strong educational opportunities, with reputable public schools like Maine West High School and several private options. The community is also served by higher education institutions, including Oakton College just minutes away. High levels of educational attainment among residents underscore the city’s commitment to learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Maine West High School
Street:
1755 S Wolf Rd
Phone:
847-827-6176
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Chippewa Middle School
Street:
123 N 8th Ave
Phone:
847-824-1503
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Private Schools
Name:
St. Zachary School
Street:
567 W Algonquin Rd
Phone:
847-437-4022
Students:
290
Colleges
Name:
Oakton College
City:
Des Plaines
State:
IL
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
6,700
Name:
Harper College
City:
Palatine
State:
IL
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
13,000
Healthcare
Des Plaines residents have excellent access to healthcare, with major hospitals like Advocate Lutheran General nearby and a high rate of insured individuals. The city boasts 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and a healthcare index score reflecting quality regional services. These resources ensure comprehensive medical care for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital
Address:
1775 Dempster St, Park Ridge, IL 60068
Phone:
(847) 723-2210
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Northwest Community Hospital
Address:
800 W Central Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Phone:
(847) 618-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
72.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Des Plaines, IL?
The Des Plaines housing market is robust, with a median home price of $340,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 74%. Rents for a two-bedroom average $1,350, and the city has seen steady home appreciation in recent years. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates make this a stable and attractive area for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$340,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can conveniently access driver and vehicle services at the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility located on Lee Street in Des Plaines. The local DMV provides essential services such as license renewals and vehicle registrations. For more information, residents can visit the Illinois Secretary of State's official website.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address:
1470 Lee St, Des Plaines, IL 60018
Phone:
312-793-1010
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.