Is Franklin Park Safe, Pros and cons of living in Franklin Park
Franklin Park, Illinois, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Located conveniently near Chicago, it provides residents with the advantages of a major metropolitan area while maintaining a distinct community feel. The village is known for its diverse population and a strong sense of local identity.
This community is well-suited for families and individuals looking for a place to settle, offering a range of amenities and a generally stable environment. Its proximity to major transportation routes and employment centers further enhances its appeal. Understanding the various facets of life in Franklin Park, from safety and cost of living to employment and climate, is essential for anyone considering a move to this area.
Is it Safe to Live in Franklin Park?
Franklin Park, IL, presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that are higher than the national average. The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Franklin Park is approximately 1 in 584, and the property crime rate is about 14 per 1,000 residents (according to NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime data). This indicates that while not among the highest crime areas, it is an area where residents face an above-average risk of property crime compared to other U.S. communities.
When compared to the state of Illinois, Franklin Park’s crime rate is higher than that of 80% of the state’s cities and towns. The village’s overall crime rate is 15 crimes per one thousand residents. Residents generally consider the south part of the city to be the safest, with a lower chance of being a victim of crime compared to other neighborhoods.
Cost of Living and Housing Market
The cost of living in Franklin Park, IL, is generally considered to be lower than the national average, with housing expenses being notably more affordable. Housing costs in Franklin Park are approximately 23% lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale). The median home value in Franklin Park was around $258,522 (according to Livability.com data from November 2025), and by March 2026, the median sale price was $315,000, showing an increase of 2.4% from the previous year (as reported by Redfin).
Rental prices in Franklin Park are also more affordable than the national average. As of May 2026, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,132 per month, which is 31% lower than the national average (according to Apartments.com). This makes Franklin Park an attractive option for renters seeking more budget-friendly housing compared to many other U.S. cities. The median rent price in Franklin Park is $1,109 (according to Niche).
Job Market and Economy
Franklin Park, IL, has an active job market with a variety of employment opportunities across different sectors. The average salary for jobs in Franklin Park, Illinois, is approximately $73,082 per year, or $35 per hour (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). The median household income in Franklin Park was reported as $76,519 (according to Data USA and Point2Homes). The unemployment rate in Franklin Park stands at 6.1% (as reported by Point2Homes), which is higher than the typical rate of 4% to 5%.
Major industries that employ residents of Franklin Park include Manufacturing, Construction, and Health Care & Social Assistance (as per Data USA). Key employers in the area include Life Fitness, Brunswick, and RCM Industries. The job market is powered by approximately 9,376 working residents, with a significant portion employed in professional or administrative positions.
Climate and Weather
Franklin Park, IL, experiences a climate typical of the Midwest, characterized by distinct seasons. The average temperature throughout the year is around 59°F high and 41°F low (as reported by Livability.com). The warmest months are generally July and August, with average daily high temperatures above 73°F, while the coldest months are December through March, with average daily highs below 45°F.
The area receives an average annual rainfall of 38 inches, with rainfall spread relatively evenly throughout the year. Snowfall is also a common occurrence during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of 37 inches. The climate offers a traditional four-season experience, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters.
Schools and Education
Information regarding specific school ratings for Franklin Park, IL, is not as readily available as for other aspects of the community. However, for the broader region, school districts in the surrounding areas generally aim to provide quality education. For families considering a move, it is advisable to research the specific school districts and individual schools that serve their intended neighborhoods within Franklin Park.
The educational landscape in the broader Illinois region typically includes a mix of public and private institutions. When evaluating schools, factors such as student-teacher ratios, test scores, and available programs are important considerations. Detailed school performance data can often be found through state education department websites or independent school review platforms.
Demographics and Diversity
Franklin Park, IL, is a diverse community with a population of approximately 18,197 residents (as of the latest data). The village has a significant Hispanic population, making up about 62.2% of residents, followed by White residents at 33.5% and Asian residents at 2.3% (according to Data USA). A notable portion of the population, around 34.2%, was born outside the United States, indicating a strong international presence.
The median age in Franklin Park is 38.3 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females to males. The community’s diversity extends to its cultural fabric, contributing to a rich and varied local atmosphere. This demographic makeup reflects a vibrant mix of ethnicities and backgrounds.