Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Oak Forest, IL
Considering a move to Oak Forest, IL? With a population of 27,478 and a median home price around $245,000, Oak Forest is an affordable Chicago suburb with a moderate cost of living. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates (129 per 100k), an average commute of 34 minutes, and strong owner-occupied housing. The city offers quality public schools, several nearby hospitals, and a climate with four distinct seasons—perfect for those who appreciate a balance of city access and suburban charm.
Demographics - Oak Forest, IL
Demographics - Oak Forest, IL
Oak Forest is home to about 27,500 residents, featuring a diverse community with the majority identifying as White, alongside notable Black, Asian, and other ethnic populations. The city has a median age of 40.4, a balanced gender ratio, and around 12.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting its multicultural character.
Population:
27,478
Density:
3,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.4
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.1%
Black:
10.2%
Asian:
3.2%
Others:
9.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Oak Forest, IL?
Oak Forest offers a moderate cost of living, with a median home value of $245,000 and average rent around $1,400 per month. Utility and transportation costs are close to the national average, making it an accessible option for families and individuals seeking affordable suburban life near Chicago.
Median House Value:
$245,000
Gross Rent:
$1,400
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.5
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
93.8
Utilities:
101.5
Transportation:
104.1
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
97.3
Crime
Is Oak Forest, IL a safe place to live?
Residents in Oak Forest benefit from low violent crime rates, with just 129 incidents per 100,000 people, and property crime remains relatively moderate. The overall crime index suggests a safe community, making it appealing for those prioritizing personal and family security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
129
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,170
Crime Index:
1,299
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 775
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 85
Weather
What is the weather like in Oak Forest, IL year-round?
Oak Forest experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging highs of 85°F and cold winters dipping to 18°F at night. The city enjoys about 54% sunny days annually and receives nearly 39 inches of rainfall, offering a typical Midwest climate.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Households in Oak Forest enjoy a median income of $80,900, with a low poverty rate of 6.8% and most adults holding at least a high school diploma. The average commute is about 34 minutes, and public transportation is available, supporting both working professionals and families.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$80,900
Family Income:
$95,300
Per Capita Income:
$34,700
Income Male:
$51,200
Income Female:
$40,900
Poverty Rate:
6.8%
Non English Speakers:
20.4%
Rent:
$1,400
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
6.1%
Commute Time:
34.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
28.5%
Education
How are the schools in Oak Forest, IL?
Oak Forest offers quality education with well-regarded public schools such as Oak Forest High School and Jack Hille Middle School, both maintaining favorable student-to-teacher ratios. The city is also served by several private schools and is within a short drive of two major community colleges, providing diverse learning opportunities for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Oak Forest High School
Street:
15201 Central Ave
Phone:
708-687-0500
Students:
1,350
Student Teacher Ratio:
16:1
Name:
Jack Hille Middle School
Street:
5800 W 151st St
Phone:
708-614-4530
Students:
690
Student Teacher Ratio:
15:1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Damian School
Street:
5300 155th St
Phone:
708-687-4230
Students:
260
Colleges
Name:
South Suburban College
City:
South Holland
State:
IL
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
8,000
Name:
Moraine Valley Community College
City:
Palos Hills
State:
IL
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
13,000
Healthcare
Oak Forest residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, including nearby Advocate South Suburban and Palos Community Hospitals, both offering emergency services. With 2.6 physicians per 1,000 people and over 92% of residents covered by health insurance, healthcare needs are well supported in the area.
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:
Palos Community Hospital
Address:
12251 S 80th Ave, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Phone:
(708) 923-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
73.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Oak Forest, IL?
The Oak Forest housing market features a median home price of $245,000 and an owner-occupancy rate exceeding 80%, indicating a stable and desirable place for homeowners. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $1,400, and recent home appreciation has been steady at 4.2% annually.
Median Home Price:
$245,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,400
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services at the Illinois Secretary of State facility in nearby Midlothian, ensuring convenient DMV support for licensing and registration needs. The office provides comprehensive services and can be reached online or by phone for appointments.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State - Driver Services Facility
Address:
14434 S. Pulaski Rd, Midlothian, IL 60445
Phone:
1-800-252-8980
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.