Moving to Elmwood Park, Illinois: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide
Considering moving to Elmwood Park, Illinois? This small Cook County village offers convenient location, Italian heritage, and immediate Chicago access. With approximately 25,000 residents in 2025, Elmwood Park combines working-class character with city proximity and Near West suburbs’ affordable option.
Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Elmwood Park:
Elmwood Park’s 2025 population is approximately 25,000 residents in this Cook County village immediately west of Chicago. The median age is around 42 years, with working families, Italian American residents, and diverse households. The population is approximately 68% White, 18% Hispanic, 8% Asian, 4% Black or African American. Elmwood Park features primarily residential neighborhoods, Italian heritage influences, commercial corridors, and serves as a bedroom community. The village attracts working-class to middle-class families, Italian Americans maintaining community connections, and those seeking immediate Chicago access with affordability. Elmwood Park appeals to those prioritizing location and value. The community maintains Italian American character while diversifying.
Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Elmwood Park:
Elmwood Park offers moderate affordability for immediate Chicago proximity. Median home values range from $280,000 to $370,000 in 2025, lower than many Cook County areas while being adjacent to Chicago. The median household income is approximately $72,000. Rental properties average $1,300 to $1,800 monthly. Illinois’ state income tax is flat 4.95%. Property taxes are significant (Cook County). Overall cost of living is competitive for the location, making Elmwood Park attractive for working families and those seeking Chicago proximity with affordability. The village provides value given the immediate city access. Housing costs create accessibility while maintaining quality location.
Economy and Job Market:
Elmwood Park residents typically work in Chicago or throughout Cook County. The village’s small size means limited local employment. Easy access to Chicago via CTA and highways enables city employment. Many residents work in diverse sectors throughout the metro. The broader Chicagoland economy offers vast opportunities. Typical commute times to Chicago are short (15-25 minutes). The village serves as a residential community for workers throughout the region.
Education:
Elmwood Park Community Unit School District 401 serves village students with Elmwood Park High School. School quality is adequate. The small district serves the community with schools reflecting the village’s working-class character and diverse population.
Recreation and Lifestyle:
Elmwood Park offers Italian American heritage with restaurants, bakeries, and community traditions. The village maintains parks and recreation facilities. Residents enjoy immediate Chicago access (5 miles) via CTA and highways for entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions. The lifestyle emphasizes working-class values, Italian heritage, family connections, and Chicago proximity. The community celebrates Italian traditions while welcoming diversity. Living in Elmwood Park means accepting small-village limitations, embracing working-class character, and prioritizing immediate Chicago access while enjoying Near West suburbs affordability with Italian American heritage creating community character.
Healthcare and Services:
Elmwood Park residents access healthcare through nearby Chicago hospitals including Loyola University Medical Center, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, and facilities throughout the region. The immediate Chicago proximity ensures comprehensive medical care access.
Transportation:
Elmwood Park benefits from CTA bus routes providing Chicago access, Metra Milwaukee District West Line (nearby), Interstate 290 (Eisenhower Expressway), and Harlem Avenue. Pace operates suburban bus routes. Most residents use personal vehicles. Typical commute times to Chicago are 15-30 minutes.
Conclusion:
Moving to Elmwood Park in 2025 offers convenient Near West living with Italian heritage, working-class character, and immediate Chicago access. The village’s combination of moderate housing costs, city proximity, and community atmosphere makes it ideal for working families and those seeking Cook County affordability where Italian American heritage meets Chicago convenience and small-village character defines accessible suburban living.