Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Park Forest, IL
Thinking of moving to Park Forest, IL? With a population of 21,687, Park Forest offers affordable living, with median home prices around $110,100 and average rent at $1,140. Residents enjoy a reasonable cost of living index (93.2), moderate commute times averaging 34 minutes, and convenient access to major hospitals and local schools. While crime rates are higher than the national average, Park Forest features diverse neighborhoods, ample green spaces, and a vibrant community spirit. Explore more about housing, education, and local amenities to see if Park Forest is the right fit for you!
Demographics - Park Forest, IL
Demographics - Park Forest, IL
Park Forest is home to approximately 21,687 residents, with a majority identifying as Black and a median age of nearly 40 years. The city has a moderate population density and a slightly higher number of females than males, fostering a diverse and well-balanced community. About 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English, contributing to the area’s multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
21,687
Density:
3,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.9
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
16.3%
Black:
69.1%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
13.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Park Forest, IL?
Park Forest offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value around $110,100 and average rent at $1,140. The cost of living index is below the national average at 93.2, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers. Utilities and transportation are slightly above average, but housing costs remain notably low.
Median House Value:
$110,100
Gross Rent:
$1,140
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,450
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,295
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$550
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.2
Grocery:
96.1
Housing:
66.5
Utilities:
106.8
Transportation:
103.3
Health Care:
97.5
Miscellaneous:
94.1
Crime
Is Park Forest, IL a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Park Forest are higher than national averages, with a violent crime rate of 470 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 2,350 per 100,000. Residents face a 1 in 213 chance of experiencing violent crime, so it’s important to consider neighborhood safety when choosing where to live. Despite this, many residents appreciate the community’s active local initiatives and neighborhood watch programs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
470
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,350
Crime Index:
2,820
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 213
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Park Forest, IL year-round?
Park Forest experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 17°F and warm summers reaching highs around 84°F. The city receives about 38.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine roughly 53% of the year. Residents can expect a typical Midwest climate, perfect for those who enjoy seasonal variety.

Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
33°F

Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Park Forest’s households have a median income of $54,512, with 92.4% of adults holding at least a high school diploma. The community is diverse, with a poverty rate of 16.8% and an average commute time of nearly 34 minutes. Public transportation is available, and about 11.5% of residents use it for their daily commute.
Median Income:
$47,800
Household Income:
$54,512
Family Income:
$61,900
Per Capita Income:
$27,900
Income Male:
$43,000
Income Female:
$35,000
Poverty Rate:
16.8%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,140
Unemployment Rate:
8.9%
Public Transport Usage:
11.5%
Commute Time:
33.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.4%
Bachelors or More:
24.1%
Education
How are the schools in Park Forest, IL?
Education in Park Forest includes well-rated public and private schools, such as Forest Trail Middle School and Talala School, offering reasonable student-to-teacher ratios. The city is also close to higher education options like Prairie State College and Governors State University, both within a short drive. Families appreciate the range of educational opportunities available from elementary through college.

Public Schools
Name:
Forest Trail Middle School
Street:
215 Wilson St
Phone:
708-668-9400
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Indiana Elementary School
Street:
165 Indiana St
Phone:
708-668-9600
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8

Private Schools
Name:
Talala School
Street:
430 Talala St
Phone:
708-668-9100
Students:
360

Colleges
Name:
Prairie State College
City:
Chicago Heights
State:
IL
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
8,200
Name:
Governors State University
City:
University Park
State:
IL
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
5,100
Healthcare
Residents benefit from access to major hospitals like Franciscan Health Olympia Fields and Advocate South Suburban Hospital, both offering comprehensive emergency and surgical services nearby. Park Forest has about 2.4 physicians per 1,000 people and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.6%. Quality healthcare is readily accessible for most residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Franciscan Health Olympia Fields
Address:
20201 Crawford Ave, Olympia Fields, IL 60461
Phone:
(708) 747-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Advocate South Suburban Hospital
Address:
17800 Kedzie Ave, Hazel Crest, IL 60429
Phone:
(708) 957-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
76.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Park Forest, IL?
Park Forest’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $110,100 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,140. The majority of homes are owner-occupied, and the market is stable with low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Recent home appreciation indicates steady growth for homeowners and investors alike.
Median Home Price:
$110,100
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,140
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Park Forest residents are served by the Illinois Secretary of State DMV office located in nearby Orland Park. The DMV provides essential vehicle registration and licensing services, and residents can access information or schedule appointments through the state’s official website. This convenient location helps streamline driver and vehicle-related processes.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State - DMV
Address:
14700 S. Ravinia Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462
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.