Is Kankakee Safe, Pros and cons of living in Kankakee

Kankakee, Illinois, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and accessible city amenities, making it a compelling option for those seeking a change of pace. Nestled along the Kankakee River, the city provides a connection to nature while remaining within reasonable commuting distance of larger metropolitan areas. This balance contributes to a cost of living that is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive prospect for individuals and families alike. The city’s commitment to community is evident in its various local events and gathering spaces, fostering a welcoming environment for new residents.

The decision to relocate to a new city involves many considerations, and understanding the nuances of daily life is paramount. Kankakee presents a distinct lifestyle, characterized by its affordability and a community-oriented atmosphere. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what it’s like to live in Kankakee, covering essential aspects such as safety, economic opportunities, housing, education, and climate, to help prospective residents make an informed choice.

Is it Safe to Live in Kankakee?

Kankakee’s crime statistics present a mixed picture, with certain categories showing rates above the national average. The city recorded a violent crime rate of 73.5 per 100,000 residents, which is 30.8% below the national average (as reported by FBI crime data). However, property crime averages 204.9 per 100,000 residents, which is 25.3% above the national average (as reported by FBI crime data).

When examining specific crime types, Kankakee has a higher rate of aggravated assault compared to the national average. Conversely, motor vehicle theft rates are significantly lower than the national average. The overall crime index for ZIP code 60901 is 119, which is 19% above the national average, with larceny/theft being the most elevated concern (as reported by FBI UCR & local law enforcement data). NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime data indicates that Kankakee is not among the safest communities in America, with a crime rate higher than 81% of Illinois cities and towns (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

Housing Costs and Availability

The housing market in Kankakee offers a significant advantage in terms of affordability. The median home price in Kankakee was $160,000 in March 2026, a 2.6% decrease year-over-year (as reported by Redfin). This median sale price is 69% lower than the national average (as reported by Redfin).

For those considering renting, the average rent in Kankakee was $1,100 as of April 22, 2026 (as reported by Zillow). This is considerably lower than the national average rent of $1,910 (as reported by Zillow). The rental market shows a year-over-year increase of 4.2% (as reported by Zillow), indicating a steady demand for rental properties.

The Kankakee Job Market and Economy

Kankakee’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries and employers. The average hourly wage in the Kankakee Metropolitan Statistical Area was $27.06 in May 2024, which is lower than the nationwide average of $32.66 (as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Major occupational groups with higher paying potential include management, legal, and computer and mathematical fields.

Healthcare practitioners and technical roles are a significant employment sector in Kankakee, accounting for 11.6% of local employment. The average hourly wage in this sector locally was $39.32 (as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Key employers in the region include Kankakee School District, Presence St. Mary’s Hospital, and CSL Behring, contributing to the local employment landscape (as reported by Kankakee Chamber of Commerce).

Cost of Living Considerations

Kankakee stands out for its affordability, with an overall cost of living that is significantly lower than the national average. The cost of living in Kankakee is 13.1% lower than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). This is driven by lower expenses across various categories, including housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation.

Housing costs in Kankakee are particularly advantageous, being 34.1% less expensive than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). Utilities are approximately 7.9% lower, and transportation costs are about 3.3% less than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). This economic advantage makes Kankakee an appealing location for those looking to stretch their budget further.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Kankakee experiences distinct seasonal weather patterns. Summers are typically long, warm, humid, and wet, while winters are cold, snowy, and windy, with the city being partly cloudy year-round (as reported by NOAA). The temperature generally ranges from 18°F to 86°F, rarely dropping below -1°F or exceeding 94°F (as reported by NOAA).

The hottest month in Kankakee is July, with an average high of 85°F and a low of 65°F. January is the coldest month, with an average low of 18°F and a high of 34°F (as reported by NOAA). The city receives an average of 3.8 inches of rain in June, its wettest month, and only 1.0 inch in January, its driest month (as reported by NOAA).

Educational Opportunities

Kankakee offers a range of educational options for its residents. Kankakee High School has an overall Niche grade of C, with specific grades for academics (C-), diversity (A), and teachers (C+) (as reported by Niche). The student-teacher ratio at Kankakee High School is 17 to 1 (as reported by Niche).

According to state test scores, 6% of students at Kankakee High School are proficient in math, and 10% are proficient in reading (as reported by Niche). Kankakee School District No. 111 has an overall Niche grade of C- (as reported by Niche). While the district faces challenges, it also offers advanced courses and honors programs, particularly at the high school level (as reported by Niche).

Demographics of Kankakee

Kankakee’s population is diverse, with a significant representation across racial and ethnic lines. As of the 2020 Census, Kankakee had a population of 24,052 (as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau). The demographic breakdown includes 39.8% Black, 31.3% White, and 24.5% Hispanic residents (as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau).

The city is considerably more diverse than Illinois overall, with a higher percentage of Black residents compared to the state average (as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau). The median age in Kankakee is 36.1 years, with a slightly higher male population than female (as reported by World Population Review). The median household income is $47,514, with a poverty rate of 25.47% (as reported by World Population Review).