Park Forest, IL
Population 20,898 · Illinois
About Park Forest, IL
Park Forest is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 20,898 residents. The median household income is $62,305 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Park Forest is 36.9 years.
Housing in Park Forest has a median home value of $106,200 and median monthly rent of $1,341. Of the 9,015 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 5,296 owner-occupied and 2,917 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Park Forest is 7.2% and the poverty rate is 17.2%. 25.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 33.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Park Forest, IL
Compared to national averages, Park Forest has a median household income of $62,305 (17% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $106,200, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,341 is 15% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Park Forest's income is 17% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 36% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Park Forest, IL?
Park Forest offers affordable housing with a median home value of $106,200, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($62,305) that falls below the national average. However, Park Forest’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Park Forest has a population of 20,898 with a median age of 36.9 years. Compare Park Forest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Park Forest
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Moline | 20,837 | $63,328 | $135,300 | Compare |
| Dolton | 20,979 | $58,706 | $140,500 | Compare |
| South Holland | 21,016 | $87,378 | $201,200 | Compare |
| Grayslake | 20,707 | $113,697 | $293,900 | Compare |
| Montgomery | 21,205 | $96,985 | $270,700 | Compare |
| Geneva | 21,299 | $136,621 | $415,800 | Compare |
| Libertyville | 20,493 | $162,270 | $499,300 | Compare |
| Frankfort | 20,417 | $153,714 | $461,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Park Forest
What is the population of Park Forest, IL?
The population of Park Forest, IL is 20,898 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Park Forest?
The median household income in Park Forest, IL is $62,305 per year.
What is the median home value in Park Forest?
The median home value in Park Forest, IL is $106,200.
What is the average rent in Park Forest?
The median monthly rent in Park Forest, IL is $1,341.
What is the unemployment rate in Park Forest?
The unemployment rate in Park Forest, IL is 7.2%.