Is Pingree Grove Safe, Pros and cons of living in Pingree Grove
Pingree Grove, Illinois, offers a blend of suburban comfort and community-focused living, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quieter pace of life within reach of a major metropolitan area. This village is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and growing population, which contributes to its dynamic community spirit. Residents appreciate the access to natural spaces and the overall quality of life that Pingree Grove provides.
The community is characterized by a strong sense of togetherness, with various local events and activities fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers and long-term residents alike. Its strategic location provides convenient access to employment centers and recreational opportunities, enhancing its appeal as a place to settle down. Pingree Grove continues to evolve, balancing its residential charm with the needs of a growing population.
Is it Safe to Live in Pingree Grove?
Pingree Grove is considered a very safe place to live, with crime rates significantly lower than both the national and state averages. The village reports a low number of violent crimes, with a rate of 9 per 100,000 people, which is 97.6% lower than the national average (AreaVibes). Property crime is also notably low, with 158 crimes per 100,000 residents, 91% lower than the U.S. average (AreaVibes).
Overall, Pingree Grove ranks in the 97th percentile for safety, indicating that it is safer than 97% of cities in the United States (AreaVibes). Residents generally feel secure, with the south part of the city often cited as the safest (CrimeGrade.org). The chance of being a victim of any crime in Pingree Grove is approximately 1 in 600 (AreaVibes).
Demographics and Diversity
Pingree Grove is home to approximately 10,914 residents, with a projected population of 12,069 by 2026 (Data USA, Point2Homes). The village’s population has seen steady growth, increasing by over 16% since 2020 (Data USA). The median age in Pingree Grove is 38 years, with a balanced gender distribution of 51% males and 49% females (Data USA, Point2Homes).
The racial composition of Pingree Grove is predominantly White, making up about 57-61% of the population. Other significant demographic groups include Hispanic residents at around 17-18%, and Black or African American residents at approximately 12-12.3% (Niche, Point2Homes, Data USA). A smaller percentage of the population identifies as Asian or of two or more races (Niche, Point2Homes).
Cost of Living and Housing Market
The cost of living in Pingree Grove is higher than the Illinois state average, by approximately 18% (AreaVibes). This is partly reflected in the housing market, where the median home value is around $311,751 (Livability.com), though other sources cite median home prices closer to $282,110 to $320,800 (Point2Homes, Niche). These figures are generally higher than the Illinois state average home price (AreaVibes, ZoomProspector).
Rental prices in Pingree Grove are also on the higher side, with a median rent of approximately $2,600 per month for a three-bedroom home (Rentometer). Other reports indicate a median rent of $2,472 for all property types (Zumper), and a median rent price greater than $3,500 per month, with most residents owning their homes (Niche). Most residents in Pingree Grove own their homes, with only a small percentage renting (Niche, AreaVibes).
Job Market and Economy
Pingree Grove’s economy is supported by a workforce of over 5,400 individuals (Data USA). The largest employing industries in the village are Health Care & Social Assistance, Manufacturing, and Construction (Data USA). Information and Construction are among the highest-paying industries (Data USA).
The average salary in Pingree Grove is approximately $54,282 per year, with an hourly rate of $26.10 (ZipRecruiter). However, other sources suggest a higher median household income, ranging from $114,294 to $129,238 annually (Point2Homes, ZoomProspector, Livability.com). The unemployment rate in Pingree Grove is relatively low, reported at 2.6% (Niche).
Climate and Weather
Pingree Grove experiences a climate characterized by warm, wet summers and short, cold, snowy winters. The summer months, from May to September, offer daily high temperatures averaging above 72°F, with July being the hottest month, reaching highs around 82°F (Weather Spark). The winter season, from December to March, brings colder temperatures, with January being the coldest, averaging a low of around 16°F and a high of 29°F (Weather Spark).
Annual precipitation in Pingree Grove averages around 38 inches (Livability.com). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with June typically receiving the most rain, while January sees the least (Weather Spark). The village also experiences an average annual snowfall of about 31 inches (Livability.com).
Education and Schools
Pingree Grove is served by a number of public schools, with ratings that vary across different levels. Cambridge Lakes Charter School is a highly-rated option, consistently receiving strong reviews and rankings, including being named among the best charter schools in Illinois (Niche, SchoolMyKids, Official Website). Hampshire High School also receives good ratings, with a score of 3.97 out of 5 (Niche).
Other schools in the area include Prairie Knolls Middle School and Central Middle School, though Central Middle School has received a lower rating (Niche). Overall, the public schools in Pingree Grove are generally considered highly rated, contributing to the community’s appeal for families (AreaVibes).
Major Employers and Economic Drivers
The primary industries driving employment in Pingree Grove are Health Care & Social Assistance, Manufacturing, and Construction (Data USA). Within these sectors, specific companies contribute significantly to the local economy. For instance, Kindred at Home is a major healthcare employer, while SiteOne Landscape Supply operates within the wholesale sector (Indeed.com).
Manufacturing is also a key industry, with companies like Trident Manufacturing and Elgin Die Mold contributing to the local job market (Indeed.com). The retail and food service sectors are represented by businesses such as Subway and Panera Bread, which are also significant employers in the area (Indeed.com).
Recreation and Lifestyle
Pingree Grove offers residents a suburban-rural mix feel, with numerous parks providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation (Niche). The community is known for its family-friendly events and a strong sense of community spirit (Rentometer). Nearby attractions include Busse Lake and Busse Woods, offering activities like hiking and fishing (Rentometer).
The village’s lifestyle is often described as active and community-oriented. Residents benefit from nearby shopping and dining options, as well as convenient access to major highways and transportation links to the greater Chicago area (Rentometer). The community actively engages in local events, such as the Independence Day Celebration and various holiday festivities (Official Website).