Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dolton, IL
Thinking about relocating to Dolton, IL? With a population of about 22,000, Dolton features affordable housing—a median home price of $135,000 and average rents around $1,250—making it a budget-friendly Chicago suburb. Commute times average 37 minutes, and public transportation is accessible. While crime rates are higher than national averages, Dolton offers access to local healthcare, several schools, and a diverse community. The area experiences classic Midwest seasons and is ideal for those seeking value and proximity to Chicago.
Demographics - Dolton, IL
Demographics - Dolton, IL
Dolton, IL is home to approximately 22,210 residents, with a predominantly Black community making up 90% of the population. The city has a moderate population density and a median age of 36, offering a balanced mix of families and working adults. Non-English speakers make up about 5% of Dolton's diverse community.
Population:
22,210
Density:
5,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
3.0%
Black:
90.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Dolton, IL?
Dolton is known for its affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $135,000 and an overall cost of living index below the national average. Residents benefit from modest rent prices and reasonable utility costs, making the area attractive for budget-conscious families. State income tax is flat at 4.95%, supporting financial predictability for households.
Median House Value:
$135,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,450
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
91.5
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
68.0
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
108.0
Health Care:
98.5
Miscellaneous:
88.7
Crime
Is Dolton, IL a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Dolton are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 152 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 43 chance for property crime. Prospective residents should consider these safety factors, though many neighborhoods remain close-knit and community-focused. Local initiatives continue to address public safety concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
655
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,350
Crime Index:
3,005
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 152
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Dolton, IL year-round?
Dolton experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 18°F and warm summers peaking at 84°F. The city receives about 38.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny days 54% of the year. Residents should be prepared for variable Midwest weather, from snowy winters to pleasant, mild springs and falls.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Dolton's community features a median household income of $52,015 and a poverty rate of 21.5%. The area is largely composed of working families, with an average commute time of about 37 minutes and 13% of residents using public transportation. Education levels are solid, as over 86% of adults have at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$23,500
Household Income:
$52,015
Family Income:
$59,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,100
Income Male:
$29,600
Income Female:
$25,300
Poverty Rate:
21.5%
Non English Speakers:
5.0%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
8.7%
Public Transport Usage:
13.0%
Commute Time:
37.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.2%
Bachelors or More:
12.7%
Education
How are the schools in Dolton, IL?
Dolton offers a range of educational opportunities with public schools such as Rosa L. Parks Middle School and Dolton School District 148, supporting student-teacher ratios around 16:1. Nearby higher education institutions like South Suburban College and Chicago State University provide accessible options for continuing education. Private schooling is also available, ensuring families have diverse choices.
Public Schools
Name:
Rosa L. Parks Middle School
Street:
14741 Edbrooke Ave
Phone:
708-868-1440
Students:
630
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0
Name:
Dolton School District 148
Street:
114 W 144th St
Phone:
708-849-1000
Students:
2,000 (district-wide)
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Private Schools
Name:
Calvary Academy
Street:
13700 Lincoln Ave
Phone:
708-849-5065
Students:
150
Colleges
Name:
South Suburban College
City:
South Holland
State:
IL
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
4,000
Name:
Chicago State University
City:
Chicago
State:
IL
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
2,600
Healthcare
Residents have access to major nearby hospitals such as Advocate South Suburban Hospital and Franciscan Health Hammond, ensuring comprehensive emergency and general care. Dolton maintains a strong healthcare presence with 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage. This makes quality healthcare accessible for most locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Advocate South Suburban Hospital
Address:
17800 S Kedzie Ave, Hazel Crest, IL 60429
Phone:
(708) 799-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Franciscan Health Hammond
Address:
5454 Hohman Ave, Hammond, IN 46320
Phone:
(219) 932-2300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
66.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Dolton, IL?
The Dolton housing market is characterized by a median home price of $135,000 and average two-bedroom rents of $1,250, offering affordable options for buyers and renters alike. Owner-occupancy stands at 61.5%, and the area has seen modest home appreciation in recent years. Rental vacancies are moderate, providing flexibility for new residents.
Median Home Price:
$135,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.3%
DMV Information
Dolton residents are served by the Illinois Secretary of State DMV office located in nearby Chicago, offering convenient access for all vehicle and licensing needs. The office provides a full range of services and can be reached by phone or online for appointments and information. This accessibility streamlines DMV-related tasks for locals.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State - DMV
Address:
9901 S Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Chicago, IL 60628
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.