Is North Riverside Safe, Pros and cons of living in North Riverside
Is it Safe to Live in North Riverside?
North Riverside, Illinois, presents a mixed picture regarding safety. While some sources indicate a higher-than-average crime rate, others suggest that specific neighborhoods within the village are quite safe. Understanding these nuances is crucial for potential residents.
The overall crime rate in North Riverside is reported to be higher than the national average, with a D grade in safety, meaning it is safer than only 21% of U.S. cities (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). However, this statistic should be viewed in context, as crime levels can vary significantly by neighborhood within the village.
Crime Statistics in North Riverside
Property crime rates in North Riverside are a significant concern, with a rate of 398.7 per 100,000 residents, which is 143.7% above the national average (according to Crime Explorer). Larceny and property crime are the most common offenses, contributing to this elevated rate.
Conversely, violent crime rates are reported to be below the national average. The violent crime rate stands at 85.4 per 100,000 residents, which is 19.6% lower than the national average (as reported by Crime Explorer). This suggests that while property crime is an issue, violent offenses are less prevalent.
When examining crime by neighborhood, the north part of North Riverside is generally considered the safest, with fewer incidents reported annually compared to other areas (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Conversely, the southeast neighborhoods experience a higher risk of being a victim of crime.
Cost of Living in North Riverside
The cost of living in North Riverside, Illinois, is generally higher than both the national and state averages. This is influenced by various factors, including housing, transportation, and other daily expenses.
Housing costs in North Riverside are notably higher than the United States average, earning a score of 3 out of 10 for affordability (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). This makes finding affordable housing a potential challenge for some residents.
Despite the higher overall cost, certain expenses are more aligned with national averages or are even lower. The cost of food is less expensive than the U.S. average, and healthcare costs are also lower (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). Transportation costs are on par with the national average.
Housing Market in North Riverside
The housing market in North Riverside shows a median home value of $345,962, which has increased by 6.0% over the past year (as reported by Zillow). This indicates a growing real estate market, though prices can fluctuate.
Home prices in North Riverside are generally higher than the Illinois average. The median home price is reported at $278,000 as of March 2026, with homes selling after an average of 128 days on the market (as reported by Redfin). This suggests a somewhat competitive market.
Rental prices in North Riverside are more affordable compared to the national average. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $874 per month, which is 47% lower than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com). This makes renting a more accessible option for many.
Job Market and Economy in North Riverside
North Riverside’s economy is supported by a range of industries, with a median household income of $77,170 (as reported by Data USA). The average salary for a job in North Riverside, IL, is approximately $62,000 per year, or $29.81 per hour (as reported by Zippia).
The unemployment rate in North Riverside is reported at 5% (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). While this figure indicates a segment of the population seeking employment, it’s important to consider the broader economic landscape and job opportunities within the region.
Major employers in the broader Cook County area, which includes North Riverside, contribute to the local economy. These often include sectors like retail, healthcare, and manufacturing, providing diverse employment opportunities for residents.
Climate in North Riverside
North Riverside experiences a climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters, typical of the Midwest region. Temperatures can vary significantly throughout the year.
Summers in North Riverside are warm, with average high temperatures in July reaching around 84°F, while winter temperatures in January can drop to an average low of 20°F (as reported by Weather Spark). This temperature range necessitates preparation for both warm and cold weather conditions.
Precipitation is distributed throughout the year, with June being the wettest month, averaging 3.6 inches of rain (as reported by Weather Spark). The village also experiences snowfall during the winter months, contributing to its seasonal weather patterns.
Education in North Riverside
North Riverside is served by several school districts, with varying ratings and performance levels. The quality of education can differ depending on the specific school and district.
For elementary and junior high education, schools within Riverside School District No. 96, such as A.F. Ames Elementary School, generally receive good ratings (as reported by Niche). However, the overall performance of school districts in the broader area can vary.
High school education options include institutions like Riverside Brookfield Township High School, which holds a 4 out of 5 rating (as reported by Niche). Proviso East High School, part of Proviso Township High School District No. 209, has a lower rating, indicating a difference in educational quality and resources.
Demographics of North Riverside
North Riverside has a population of approximately 7,045 residents as of 2026 (as reported by Data USA). The village has a diverse demographic makeup, with a significant portion of its population identifying as White or Hispanic.
The racial composition includes approximately 60.99% White residents, 31.02% Hispanic residents, and 8.72% Black or African American residents (as reported by Data USA). This diversity reflects the broader demographic trends in the Chicago metropolitan area.
The median age in North Riverside is around 39.4 years, with a slightly higher proportion of males to females (as reported by Data USA). A notable percentage of residents are U.S. citizens, with a low poverty rate of 7.94% (as reported by Data USA).