Is Round Lake Beach Safe, Pros and cons of living in Round Lake Beach

Round Lake Beach, a northern suburb of Chicago in Lake County, Illinois, offers a community with a diverse population and a mix of suburban and natural features. The village is characterized by numerous small lakes and ponds, contributing to its appeal for residents. It was incorporated in 1937 and has since grown into a community of approximately 27,000 people, reflecting a blend of established neighborhoods and evolving residential areas.

The demographic makeup of Round Lake Beach is notable for its diversity. Hispanic residents constitute the largest ethnic group, making up over 56% of the population, followed by White (Non-Hispanic) residents. A significant portion of the population, approximately 25.9%, is foreign-born, indicating a multicultural environment. The median age in Round Lake Beach is around 33.5 to 34 years, suggesting a community with a substantial number of working-age adults and families.

Is it Safe to Live in Round Lake Beach?

Round Lake Beach generally presents a safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate in Round Lake Beach is significantly lower than the national average, with some sources indicating it is 54% lower. This statistic translates to fewer daily occurrences of crime, making it a potentially attractive option for those prioritizing safety in their community.

Violent crime rates in Round Lake Beach are notably lower than the national average, with figures suggesting they are 77% lower. Property crime rates also fall below the national average, though at a less pronounced margin. While specific neighborhood safety can vary, the overall data suggests a community where residents can feel secure, with a lower chance of becoming a victim of crime compared to many other areas in the United States (as reported by AreaVibes and NeighborhoodScout).

Violent Crime Statistics

Violent crimes, which include offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, occur at a substantially lower rate in Round Lake Beach compared to national figures. For instance, the violent crime rate is reported to be 83 per 100,000 individuals, which is 77% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This indicates a generally safe environment concerning more serious offenses.

The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Round Lake Beach is quite low. Some reports indicate a rate of 1 in 1231, which is significantly lower than both the state and national averages (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). These statistics underscore the community’s favorable standing regarding violent crime prevention.

Property Crime Statistics

Property crimes, encompassing burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, are also a consideration for residents. In Round Lake Beach, property crime rates are reported to be lower than the national average, though the difference is not as stark as with violent crimes. For example, one report indicates 901 property crimes per 100,000 residents, which is 48.8% lower than the U.S. average (as reported by AreaVibes).

While property crime rates are below the national average, it’s important to note that they are higher than the rates for violent crime within the village. The chance of becoming a victim of property crime in Round Lake Beach is approximately 1 in 112 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Residents should remain aware of their surroundings and take standard precautions to protect their property.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Round Lake Beach is generally considered to be slightly lower than the national average. One source indicates that the cost of living index is 98, meaning it is 2% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This suggests that everyday expenses, such as food, transportation, and utilities, may be more affordable compared to many other areas across the country.

When compared to the state of Illinois, Round Lake Beach is also reported to be slightly less expensive to live in. This can make it an appealing option for individuals and families looking for a more affordable lifestyle within the broader Chicago metropolitan area. The overall affordability is influenced by various factors, including housing, utilities, and other daily expenses.

Housing Costs

Housing costs in Round Lake Beach present a mixed picture, with home prices being lower than the national average, while rental prices are higher. The median home price in Round Lake Beach was reported to be $247,937 as of March 2026 (as reported by Zillow). This figure is 5.1% higher than the previous year, indicating a growing market for homeownership.

Conversely, the average rent in Round Lake Beach is higher than the national average. As of March 2026, the average rent was $1,850 per month (as reported by Zillow), which is higher than the national average of $1,910. However, other sources suggest the average rent is $841 per month, which is 49% lower than the national average (as reported by Homes.com). This discrepancy may be due to different methodologies or data collection periods, but it highlights the importance of checking current rental market conditions.

Income and Salary

The median household income in Round Lake Beach has seen some variation in reported figures. One report from 2024 indicates a median household income of $86,059 (as reported by Data USA and World Population Review). Another source from 2026 suggests a median income of $89,130 (as reported by Livability.com).

The average annual salary in Round Lake Beach is approximately $47,814 as of April 2026 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). However, other sources cite a higher average salary of $71,854 per year or $35 per hour (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). These figures suggest a range of earning potentials within the community, with the majority of salaries falling between the 25th and 75th percentiles.

Job Market and Major Employers

The job market in Round Lake Beach is diverse, with key employment sectors including manufacturing, retail trade, and healthcare and social assistance. The most common occupations for residents are in office and administrative support, production, and sales-related fields. These sectors reflect the economic activities that drive employment within the village and surrounding areas.

While specific major employers are not detailed in the provided data, the employment landscape suggests opportunities in various industries. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) provides data on where workers are employed, which can offer insights into the broader regional job market. Recent data indicates a slight decline in employment within Round Lake Beach, with a decrease of 1.48% from 2023 to 2024 (as reported by Data USA).

Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate in Round Lake Beach has been reported at 11.2% for 2026 (as reported by Data Commons). This figure suggests a notable portion of the labor force is seeking employment. It is important to consider this rate in the context of broader economic trends and regional employment opportunities.

The labor force in Round Lake Beach is comprised of individuals employed in various sectors. Understanding the unemployment rate provides insight into the local economic health and the availability of job opportunities for residents. Data from the Illinois Department of Employment Security would offer more detailed breakdowns of unemployment trends.

Climate

Round Lake Beach experiences a climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers are generally warm and wet, while winters are cold, snowy, and windy. The temperature typically ranges from approximately 14°F in the winter to 84°F in the summer, rarely dropping below -7°F or exceeding 93°F throughout the year.

The village receives an average annual precipitation of about 38 inches, with rainfall distributed relatively evenly throughout the year. June is typically the wettest month, averaging around 4 to 5 inches of rain, while January is the driest, with about 0.6 inches (as reported by WorldWeatherOnline and IDcide). Snowfall averages around 40 to 43 inches annually, with the snowless period lasting from April to November.

Average Temperatures

During the summer months, the average maximum temperature in Round Lake Beach reaches around 82-84°F in July, with average minimums around 62-63°F (as reported by IDcide and WorldWeatherOnline). These warm temperatures create a pleasant environment for outdoor activities. In winter, January sees average maximum temperatures around 27-30°F and average minimums around 12-14°F, indicating very cold conditions.

The temperature variations between day and night are generally limited, with a difference of about 16-19°F. This consistency can make planning daily activities easier, regardless of the season. The overall temperature range provides a typical Midwestern climate experience.

Rainfall and Precipitation

Round Lake Beach experiences a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest month being June. The average rainfall in June is approximately 4.11 inches (as reported by IDcide), contributing to the warm and wet summer climate. The drier season generally occurs from October to March.

The village receives an annual average precipitation of about 9.99 inches according to one source (as reported by IDcide), while another indicates 38 inches (as reported by WorldWeatherOnline). This variation might be due to different measurement periods or methodologies. Regardless, residents can expect regular precipitation throughout the year, with higher amounts during the summer months.

Education

The public school system in Round Lake Beach is generally considered above average. The Niche.com platform provides ratings for schools, with some elementary schools receiving C-minus to A-minus grades. For example, Round Lake Beach Elementary School has a C-minus overall Niche grade, with 375 students in grades 1-5 and a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1 (as reported by Niche).

For secondary education, Grayslake North High School, which serves Round Lake Beach, has a rating of 3.92 out of 5 on Niche. Round Lake Community Unit School District No. 116, which serves the area, has an overall Niche grade of B+ and a rating of 3.83 out of 5 (as reported by Niche).

School Ratings

School ratings in Round Lake Beach show a range of performance. While some elementary schools may have lower grades, high schools generally receive better ratings. Grayslake North High School, for example, is recognized with an A- grade on Niche, indicating strong performance in academics and student life (as reported by Niche). This suggests that while elementary education may have areas for improvement, secondary education is a strong point.

The overall Niche grade for Round Lake Beach as a suburb is a B+, with many residents noting that the public schools are above average. This indicates a generally positive perception of the educational opportunities available to students in the area. The district’s performance is a key factor for families considering a move to Round Lake Beach.

Demographics

Round Lake Beach is a diverse community with a population of approximately 27,000 to 27,300 residents (as reported by Data USA, World Population Review, and Point2Homes). The population is characterized by a significant Hispanic or Latino presence, making up over 56% of the residents (as reported by Data USA). White (Non-Hispanic) residents constitute another substantial portion of the population.

The village has a notable foreign-born population, with about 25.9% of residents born outside the United States (as reported by Data USA). This multicultural aspect contributes to the unique character of Round Lake Beach. The median age of residents is around 33.5 to 34 years old, indicating a relatively young to middle-aged population, with a slightly higher male to female ratio.

Population Breakdown

The population of Round Lake Beach is approximately 27,079 according to the most current US Census data (as reported by Data USA). Males constitute about 52.4% of the population, while females make up 47.6% (as reported by Point2Homes). This gender distribution is fairly balanced, with a slightly higher proportion of males.

Citizenship within Round Lake Beach shows that 73.3% of the population are US-born citizens, with an additional 11.6% being naturalized citizens. A remaining 15.1% of residents are non-citizens (as reported by Point2Homes). This breakdown highlights the diverse origins and legal statuses of the community’s inhabitants.

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The racial and ethnic composition of Round Lake Beach is varied. Hispanic or Latino individuals represent the largest demographic group, accounting for 56.1% of the population (as reported by Data USA). White residents make up approximately 34.5% of the population, while other racial groups, including Black or African American (4.2%), Asian (2.2%), and Native American, are present in smaller percentages (as reported by Data USA, World Population Review, and Point2Homes).

The presence of multiple racial and ethnic groups contributes to the cultural richness of Round Lake Beach. This diversity is a defining characteristic of the community, reflecting broader demographic trends in the Chicago metropolitan area. Understanding these demographics is key to appreciating the social fabric of the village.

Pros and Cons of Living in Round Lake Beach

Pros

Round Lake Beach offers a cost of living that is generally below the national average, making it an economically attractive option for many. The village boasts significantly lower violent crime rates compared to the national average, contributing to a sense of safety and security for its residents. Furthermore, the community is diverse, with a notable presence of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds, fostering a rich social environment.

The climate provides a distinct four-season experience, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The presence of numerous lakes and ponds adds natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Additionally, the public school system, particularly at the high school level, generally receives above-average ratings, which is a significant draw for families.

Cons

One of the primary cons of living in Round Lake Beach is the higher-than-average rental costs, which can be a deterrent for those seeking affordable housing options. While property crime rates are below the national average, they are higher than violent crime rates, indicating a need for continued vigilance. The unemployment rate, reported at 11.2% for 2026, also suggests potential challenges in the local job market.

The climate, while offering distinct seasons, can be extreme, with very cold winters. Some sources also indicate a slight increase in the total crime rate year over year, and resident opinions on safety can vary by neighborhood. The diversity of school ratings, with some elementary schools receiving lower grades, might be a concern for families with younger children.