Is Orland Hills Safe, Pros and cons of living in Orland Hills

Orland Hills, a village in Cook County, Illinois, presents a suburban lifestyle with a strong sense of community. It offers a balance of quiet residential living and convenient access to the amenities of the greater Chicago metropolitan area. This guide delves into the key aspects of life in Orland Hills, from safety and cost of living to demographics and local attractions, providing a comprehensive overview for potential residents.

The village is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained neighborhoods, making it a desirable location for those seeking a stable and welcoming environment. With a population of approximately 6,700 residents, Orland Hills fosters a close-knit community where neighbors often know each other, contributing to a relaxed pace of life.

Is it Safe to Live in Orland Hills?

Orland Hills is generally considered a safe community, with crime rates lower than those of many larger urban areas. The crime rate in Orland Hills is approximately 17.62 per 1,000 residents in a typical year (according to CrimeGrade.org). This places the village in the 72nd percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than 72% of U.S. cities (according to CrimeGrade.org).

Violent crime rates in Orland Hills are well below the national average. The violent crime rate is reported as 1.755 per 1,000 residents annually (according to CrimeGrade.org). Property crime also tends to be below average when compared to national statistics for cities of all sizes (according to NeighborhoodScout). Residents generally perceive the southwest part of the village as the safest area.

Crime Statistics Overview

The overall crime rate in Orland Hills is considered low, with the village receiving an “A-” grade for safety from CrimeGrade.org, indicating a crime rate lower than the average U.S. city. The chance of being a victim of crime in Orland Hills varies by neighborhood, with some areas having a lower risk than others. For instance, the chance of being a victim of crime ranges from 1 in 44 in the northwest neighborhoods to 1 in 80 in the southwest (according to CrimeGrade.org).

When examining property crimes, Orland Hills also shows favorable statistics. NeighborhoodScout reports that the property crime rate is below average compared to national benchmarks. Common property crimes in Orland Hills include burglaries and vehicle thefts, with occasional vandalism reported in certain neighborhoods (according to DoorProfit).

Community Safety Initiatives

The Orland Hills Police Department is actively involved in maintaining community safety through patrols and engagement programs. The village benefits from a close-knit population and a community-oriented atmosphere that contributes to a secure environment. Residents can feel comfortable exploring local areas, particularly in well-populated places like community parks and shopping centers (according to DoorProfit).

The cost of crime per resident in Orland Hills is approximately $281 per year, which is lower than both the national and Illinois state averages. This figure reflects tangible costs associated with the criminal justice system, victim expenses, and lost economic contributions (according to CrimeGrade.org).

Cost of Living in Orland Hills

Orland Hills offers a cost of living that is generally higher than the national average, largely influenced by housing expenses. The overall cost of living is approximately 16% higher than the national average (according to Payscale). This figure can vary based on individual career paths, salaries, and the real estate market.

Housing costs are a significant factor, with expenses being about 33% higher than the national average. Utility prices, however, are about 5% lower than the national average, and transportation costs are slightly higher, at 4% above the national average (according to Payscale). Grocery prices are also about 4% higher than the national average.

Housing Market and Rental Costs

The median home value in Orland Hills is around $280,300 (according to Data USA). However, other sources place the median home value closer to $245,300 (according to Kurby AI) or $256,939 (according to Livability.com). The median rent in Orland Hills is approximately $1,359 per month for gross rent (according to Point2Homes), or $1,323 per month for average rent (according to Apartments.com). Other estimates place the median rent at $1,367 (according to Kurby AI) or $2,350 (according to Zillow).

For renters, the median household income was $50,565 in 2022 (according to Point2Homes). The rent-to-income ratio in the area is about 32.3%, indicating that a notable portion of earnings goes towards housing expenses. A rent-to-income ratio under 30% is generally considered more affordable.

Income and Salary Expectations

The median household income in Orland Hills has seen growth, reaching $122,039 in 2024 (according to Data USA). This is well above the national median income. The average per capita income in Orland Hills is approximately $59,745 (according to Data USA). For those employed, the average salary in Orland Hills is about $23.11 per hour or $48,068 per year, as of April 2026 (according to ZipRecruiter).

However, SalaryExpert reports a different average salary of $73,076 per year, which equates to an hourly rate of $35. Income levels vary by age group, with households led by residents aged 45 to 64 earning a median income of $127,429 (according to Point2Homes). The poverty rate in Orland Hills is reported at 6.43% (according to Data USA).

Demographics of Orland Hills

Orland Hills is home to a population of approximately 6,719 people as of 2024, with a projected population of 6,562 in 2026 (according to Data USA and US Census Bureau). The village has experienced a slight population decline in recent years. The median age in Orland Hills is around 35.8 years (according to Data USA and NeighborhoodScout).

The racial composition of Orland Hills is predominantly White, making up about 76% of the population (according to Niche and US Census Bureau). Other significant demographic groups include Hispanic residents at 11.8% to 12% and Black or African American residents at 7.3% (according to Niche, US Census Bureau, and Point2Homes). Approximately 14% of Orland Hills residents were born outside the United States (according to Data USA).

Age and Gender Distribution

The age distribution in Orland Hills shows a significant portion of the population in the adult working and middle-aged brackets. Adults between 25 and 44 years old constitute about 28.1% of the population, while those aged 45 to 64 make up approximately 31.1% (according to Point2Homes). The median age is 35.8 years, with males having a median age of 32 and females around 42.1 years (according to Data USA).

In terms of gender, there are more males than females in Orland Hills, with approximately 124.3 males for every 100 females (according to Data USA). This contrasts with the 2020 census data, which indicated 95.9 males for every 100 females (according to Wikipedia).

Citizenship and Foreign-Born Population

A high percentage of Orland Hills residents are U.S. citizens, with approximately 97.6% holding citizenship as of 2024 (according to Data USA). This figure is higher than the national average of 93.2%. The foreign-born population constitutes about 14% of the residents, which is comparable to the national average (according to Data USA).

The percentage of foreign-born citizens in Orland Hills has seen a slight decrease, from 15.6% in 2023 to 14% in 2024. Non-citizens make up a small portion of the population, around 2.4% (according to Niche).

Job Market and Major Employers

The job market in Orland Hills is supported by its approximately 3,742 working residents. The primary employment sectors for residents include Retail Trade, Educational Services, and Health Care & Social Assistance (according to Data USA). Key job roles are concentrated in Sales & Related Occupations, Business & Financial Operations Occupations, and Management Occupations.

While specific major employers within Orland Hills are not extensively detailed in the provided data, nearby Orland Park lists companies such as Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurants and Marquette Bank as significant employers (according to Zippia). Walmart and Taco Bell are also listed as companies with a large number of employees in the broader Orland Hills area (according to Indeed.com).

Employment and Unemployment Rates

The employment rate in Orland Hills is currently around 92.40%, indicating a low unemployment rate (according to BestNeighborhood.org). The unemployment rate itself is cited as 6.1% (according to Point2Homes) and also as 4.5% (according to Niche). Employment in Orland Hills saw a slight decline of -1.19% from 2023 to 2024 (according to Data USA).

The workforce in Orland Hills is diverse, with residents commuting to various job opportunities. The village’s proximity to Chicago also provides access to a larger and more varied job market. Major employers in Will County, a nearby region, include Amazon, Plainfield School District #202, and Silver Cross Hospital (according to Will County Center for Economic Development).

Industries and Economic Drivers

The local economy in Orland Hills is supported by a range of industries. Retail trade plays a significant role, alongside educational services and healthcare. The village also benefits from its position within the Chicago metropolitan area, which has a robust economy driven by diverse sectors including manufacturing, technology, and finance.

Economic incentives such as Tax Increment Finance (TIF) districts and Cook County Class 6b property assessment reduction incentives are available to businesses looking to invest in Orland Hills (according to The Village of Orland Hills, IL). These initiatives aim to foster economic growth and attract new businesses to the area.

Climate in Orland Hills

Orland Hills experiences a climate typical of the Midwest, characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, humid, and wet, while winters are cold, snowy, and windy. The village experiences partly cloudy conditions throughout the year.

The average temperature in Orland Hills typically ranges from 18°F in the winter to 84°F in the summer. Temperatures rarely drop below -1°F or exceed 92°F. The warm season lasts from late May to mid-September, with July being the hottest month, averaging a high of 83°F and a low of 66°F (according to Time and Date).

Seasonal Weather Patterns

Monthly rainfall varies throughout the year, with June typically receiving the most rain at approximately 3.7 inches. January sees the least amount of rainfall, averaging about 0.9 inches (according to Time and Date). Average annual rainfall is around 33 inches (according to The Village of Orland Hills, IL).

Winter temperatures in Orland Hills can be quite cold, with January having an average low of 19°F and a high of 32°F. The average winter temperature is around 25°F (according to The Village of Orland Hills, IL). Snowfall averages about 39 inches per year (according to The Village of Orland Hills, IL).

Temperature and Precipitation Averages

The average high temperature in Orland Hills during the summer is around 83°F, with average lows in the mid-60s. The average summer temperature is approximately 71°F (according to The Village of Orland Hills, IL). The cold season lasts from early December to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 42°F.

Precipitation occurs year-round, with significant seasonal variations. The average annual rainfall is around 40 inches, with an average annual snowfall of 28 inches (according to Livability.com). These figures are consistent with typical Midwestern weather patterns.

Education in Orland Hills

Orland Hills is served by several school districts, providing educational opportunities for its younger residents. The village’s schools are generally well-regarded, contributing to its appeal as a family-friendly community. Niche.com provides ratings for various schools in and around Orland Hills.

Among the highly-rated elementary schools are Christian Hills School and Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School, both private institutions with a PK-8 grade range and a rating of 4.33 out of 5 (according to Niche). Meadow Ridge School, a public school within Orland School District No. 135, receives a perfect rating of 5 out of 5 (according to Niche).

School District Performance

Orland School District No. 135 receives an overall Niche grade of A-, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5, and is recognized for its quality education (according to Niche). Consolidated High School District No. 230, which serves older students, also holds a strong rating of 4.38 out of 5 (according to Niche).

These districts are committed to providing a strong academic foundation. Factors such as state test scores, college readiness, and graduation rates are used to assess school district performance. The focus on these metrics ensures that students are well-prepared for future academic and career pursuits.

Public and Private School Options

Residents have access to both public and private educational institutions. Public schools like Century Junior High School are rated 4 out of 5 by Niche. Southland College Prep Charter High School, a public charter school, also serves the area with a rating of 3.7 out of 5 (according to Niche).

For those seeking private education, options like Christian Hills School and Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School offer comprehensive programs. These schools contribute to the diverse educational landscape available to families in Orland Hills, providing choices that cater to different preferences and needs.

Pros and Cons of Living in Orland Hills

Orland Hills offers a compelling mix of suburban advantages, including a strong sense of community and generally safe surroundings. The village provides a relaxed pace of life, making it an appealing option for families and individuals seeking a quieter lifestyle outside of a major city.

The affordability of housing, particularly when compared to the national average, is another significant advantage. This, combined with a median household income that is well above the national median, allows residents to maintain a comfortable standard of living. The village’s proximity to Chicago also offers convenient access to urban amenities and employment opportunities.

Advantages of Orland Hills

One of the primary benefits of living in Orland Hills is its family-friendly environment and community-oriented atmosphere. The village boasts well-maintained parks and neighborhoods, fostering a welcoming setting for residents of all ages. Safety is also a key draw, with crime rates lower than those in many larger cities (according to CrimeGrade.org).

The cost of living, while slightly higher than the national average overall, is made more manageable by relatively affordable housing options. The median home value and rent prices are competitive, especially considering the suburban location and access to amenities. The median household income is robust, supporting a comfortable lifestyle for many residents (according to Data USA).

Potential Challenges

A potential drawback for some residents might be the higher cost of living, particularly concerning housing expenses, which are above the national average (according to Payscale). While overall salaries are competitive, the rent-to-income ratio indicates that housing costs can consume a significant portion of a household’s earnings.

The job market within Orland Hills itself may be limited, with many residents commuting to surrounding areas or to Chicago for employment. While the village has a stable economy, the range of major employers directly within its borders might not be as extensive as in larger urban centers. The population has also seen a slight decline in recent years, which could be a consideration for some.