Moving to Oak Park, IL? Everything You Need to Know

📍 Oak Park, IL at a Glance

• Population: 54,583
• Location: 8 miles west of downtown Chicago, bordering the city’s Austin neighborhood
• Incorporated: 1902
• Known For: Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, Ernest Hemingway’s birthplace, progressive politics

🗳️ Politics & Civic Life

Oak Park has a long-standing reputation as a progressive community with highly engaged residents. The village consistently votes Democratic in elections and has been at the forefront of social issues, being one of the first communities in Illinois to welcome same-sex couples with a domestic partnership registry. Local politics focus on sustainability, equity, and maintaining the village’s unique character while managing growth.

🚓 Crime & Safety

Oak Park maintains a dedicated police force and has invested heavily in community policing programs. While property crime rates are slightly above the national average due to its proximity to Chicago, violent crime remains relatively low. The village uses data-driven approaches and neighborhood watch programs to maintain safety, with most residents feeling secure in their daily activities.

🍽️ Dining & Entertainment

The dining scene reflects Oak Park’s diversity, from Maya Del Sol’s upscale Latin cuisine to Hemingway’s Bistro’s French fare. Marion Street Cheese Market draws food enthusiasts, while Pete’s Red Hots serves classic Chicago-style hot dogs. The village hosts numerous festivals including the Oak Park Farmers Market, and the historic Lake Theatre offers independent films alongside mainstream releases.

🏛️ Local Government

Oak Park operates under a village manager form of government with an elected board of trustees. The village is known for its transparent governance and extensive resident participation through various commissions and committees. Services are well-funded and efficient, with the village maintaining its own library system, health department, and community development programs.

🚍 Transportation

Transportation is one of Oak Park’s strongest selling points. Three CTA train lines (Blue and Green) and one Metra line provide direct access to downtown Chicago in 20-30 minutes. The village is also served by multiple bus routes and maintains bike-friendly streets. Many residents live car-free or car-light, taking advantage of the walkable downtown and excellent transit connections.

🏘️ Housing & Real Estate

Housing stock ranges from vintage apartments to Prairie-style homes and new condominiums. The median home price hovers around $450,000, with significant variation between neighborhoods. The village’s historic districts feature well-preserved Victorian and Prairie School architecture, while newer developments offer modern amenities. Rental options are plentiful, making it attractive to both buyers and renters.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life

Oak Park Park District manages 18 parks totaling over 80 acres, including the popular Scoville Park in the downtown area. The village maintains an extensive urban forest canopy and has won numerous environmental awards. Residents enjoy year-round programming at community centers, pools, and the Oak Park Conservatory, a historic indoor botanical garden.

💼 Job Market

With a median household income of $96,000, Oak Park residents typically work in Chicago but enjoy lower taxes than city dwellers. Major local employers include Rush Oak Park Hospital, Oak Park and River Forest High School, and the Village of Oak Park itself. The downtown district supports numerous small businesses, and remote work has become increasingly common post-pandemic.

🧑‍🏫 Education

Oak Park Elementary School District 97 and Oak Park River Forest High School District 200 serve public school students with above-average academic performance. The high school consistently ranks among Illinois’ best. Private options include St. Giles Catholic School and several Montessori programs. The proximity to Chicago also provides access to numerous universities and specialized schools.

🌞 Climate & Weather

Oak Park experiences typical Midwest seasons with hot, humid summers averaging 85°F and cold winters dropping to 20°F. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the village’s walkable streets. Annual snowfall averages 36 inches, and the village maintains an efficient snow removal system to keep streets and sidewalks clear.

💬 Community Sentiment

Residents praise Oak Park’s diversity, walkability, and strong sense of community. Common themes in local forums include appreciation for the schools, cultural offerings, and easy Chicago access. Some concerns revolve around property taxes and parking challenges, but most residents feel the quality of life justifies these trade-offs. The village attracts people seeking an urban lifestyle with suburban benefits.

✨ Why People Are Moving to Oak Park

Oak Park continues to attract newcomers who want the best of both worlds: a tight-knit, walkable community with world-class architecture and excellent schools, plus seamless access to Chicago’s job market and cultural amenities. Whether you’re drawn by the Frank Lloyd Wright homes, the progressive values, or simply the tree-lined streets where kids still ride bikes to school, Oak Park offers a rare combination of history, diversity, and modern convenience that makes it one of Chicagoland’s most desirable addresses.