Is Park Forest Village Safe, Pros and cons of living in Park Forest Village

Is it Safe to Live in Park Forest Village?

Park Forest Village presents a complex picture regarding safety, with crime rates that warrant careful consideration. The village experiences a violent crime rate of 1.2 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average of 3.6 per 1,000 residents (as reported by Kurby AI, March 2026). However, other analyses indicate a higher overall crime rate. NeighborhoodScout reports that Park Forest experiences one of the higher murder rates in the nation when compared to cities of all sizes. Furthermore, NeighborhoodScout’s analysis indicates that Park Forest’s property crime rate is 15 per one thousand population, suggesting an above-average chance of becoming a victim of property crime compared to all other communities in America.

The overall crime rate in Park Forest is reported to be 91% above the national average as of May 2026. Residents have approximately a 1 in 158 chance of being a victim of violent crime annually and a 1 in 25 chance for property crime. Park Forest has higher crime than 94% of major U.S. cities with populations over 50,000. Despite these statistics, it’s important to note that crime can vary significantly by neighborhood, and further research into specific areas within Park Forest is recommended before making a move.

Cost of Living and Housing

The cost of living in Park Forest Village offers a significant draw for many, particularly those seeking affordability. The median home value in Park Forest is $94,700, which is substantially lower than the national average. This makes Park Forest a more accessible market for homebuyers compared to many other areas. The village’s affordability index stands at 218, indicating that housing is more affordable than the national baseline of 100.

However, rental costs present a different picture. The median monthly rent in Park Forest Village is $1,354, which is 16% above the national average. This disparity between homeownership costs and rental expenses is a key factor to consider for potential residents. The median household income in Park Forest is reported as $61,072 (as reported by World Population Review), which, when compared to the median rent, suggests that a significant portion of income may be allocated to housing for renters.

Job Market and Economy

Park Forest’s economy is supported by several key industries. The leading sectors for employment include Health Care and Social Services, Education, and Transportation and Warehousing. These sectors provide a diverse range of job opportunities for residents within the village. In 2024, the total number of employed individuals in Park Forest was approximately 9,570, reflecting a slight decline from the previous year.

The unemployment rate in Park Forest was reported at 7.1% in February 2026, according to Data Commons. This figure is higher than some other reports, which place the unemployment rate at 6.3% (as reported by ZoomProspector) or 8.4% (as reported by Kurby AI). The median household income in Park Forest varies across different sources, with figures around $61,072 (World Population Review) and $65,403 (ZoomProspector) being commonly cited.

Climate and Environment

Park Forest Village experiences a climate characterized by warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Summer temperatures typically range in the 70s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures can drop into the 20s. The warmest month is July, with average maximum temperatures around 84°F, and the coldest month is January, with average minimum temperatures around 19°F.

The village receives an average of about 42 inches of precipitation annually. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with June being the wettest month, averaging around 4.66 to 5 inches of rain. Snowfall averages approximately 29 inches per year. The climate offers distinct seasonal changes, providing a typical Midwestern experience with warm summers suitable for outdoor activities and cold winters with potential for snow.

Education and Schools

Educational opportunities in Park Forest Village are provided through a system of public schools. Park Forest School District No. 163 serves students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade and has an overall Niche grade of C. Individual schools within the district receive varied ratings. For instance, Blackhawk Primary Center has an overall Niche grade of B minus.

The student-teacher ratio in Park Forest schools is generally around 12:1 to 14:1. According to state test scores, a significant percentage of students demonstrate proficiency in math and reading, with figures like 75% in math and 76% in reading noted for Park Forest Elementary School (though this school is located in Pennsylvania according to Niche). Parents considering a move to Park Forest should research the specific GreatSchools ratings and Niche grades for schools within their desired neighborhoods.

Demographics and Community

Park Forest Village is home to a diverse population. As of the most recent data, the village has an estimated population of around 21,000 to 21,700 residents. The racial composition is notably diverse, with a significant Black or African American population, making up approximately 67-69% of residents. White residents constitute about 20-21% of the population, with smaller percentages identifying as Hispanic, Asian, Native American, or multiracial.

The median age in Park Forest is around 36.9 to 37 years. For every 100 females, there are approximately 81-82 males. The village was originally designed as a planned community for veterans returning from World War II, which has contributed to its unique community structure and history. This planned origin has fostered a strong sense of place and community engagement among its residents.

Pros and Cons of Living in Park Forest Village

Pros

One of the most significant advantages of living in Park Forest Village is its affordability, particularly regarding housing. The median home value is considerably lower than the national average, making homeownership more attainable for many individuals and families. This affordability extends to the overall cost of living, which is generally less expensive than the national average. The village also boasts a strong sense of community, stemming from its origins as a planned community designed to foster neighborly connections.

Additionally, Park Forest offers a relatively lower violent crime rate compared to the national average, which can be a key factor for safety-conscious individuals. The community is also characterized by its numerous parks and public spaces, contributing to a pleasant living environment and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The proximity to Chicago also provides residents with access to a major metropolitan area’s employment, cultural, and entertainment opportunities.

Cons

Despite its advantages, Park Forest Village faces challenges, notably its higher-than-average property crime rates and overall crime rate. While the violent crime rate may be lower than the national average, the prevalence of property crime is a concern for residents. Rental costs in Park Forest are higher than the national average, which could be a deterrent for those not looking to purchase a home.

The median household income, while decent, may present challenges for some residents when factoring in the cost of living, especially for renters. Furthermore, the village’s population has been experiencing a slight decline in recent years. While schools are available, their overall ratings may not meet the expectations of all families, necessitating research into specific school performance.