Southern Cook County Regional Synopsis

Regional Synopsis

The Greater Chicago area includes the City of Chicago and the "Collar Counties" (Suburban Cook, Lake, DuPage, McHenry, Kane, and Will). The Highway system includes the Edens, Kennedy, Eisenhower, and Stevenson Expressways, as well as the Tri-State (I-294), East-West (I-88), and North-South (I-355) toll-ways. Public transportation consists of the Regional Transportation Agency (RTA), 1-800-972-7000, which includes Metra, www.metrarail.com (train service to & from the suburbs), PACE (bus service in the suburbs), and CTA (bus & train service in the city and certain close-by suburbs). ComEd (1-800-334-7661) provides electric service to most communities in the area, and similarly for NICOR (1-888-642-6748) with gas service. Ameritech (1-800-244-4444) and AT&T (1-800-362-9689) both provide local telephone service. The 911 system serves most communities for emergency police and fire department calls.

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Note: The private school count for each community uses two sources: 1) Schools included in ParentLink's publication School's In-Chicago, and 2) the State of Illinois list of recognized private schools. The child care count for each community uses two sources: 1) centers and preschools included in ParentLink's publication Child Care Connections and 2) centers and preschools listed in the State of Illinois (Dept. of Children & Family Services) list of centers and/or various online directories (Yahoo yellow pages listings), web sites, etc.

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Community Synopses for City of Chicago and Southern Cook County (Alphabetical order after Chicago)

City of Chicago: Population 2,701,926 (2005 estimate +/- 35,660)

Government: City Hall, 120 N. LaSalle St., 312-744-6861 (City Clerk) Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: District 299, Grades K-8: District 299. About 350 private schools are located in Chicago.

Child Care: About 400 child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Chicago.

Public Library: Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St., 312-747-4396.

Park District: Chicago Park District, 312-742-7529

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 44/56.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $245,000*. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,678**. Median Rent: $783

*2005 Estimate, +/- $3,824 ** 2005 Estimate, +/-$185 ***2005 Estimate, +/-$10

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Alsip: 19,700. Number Zip Code 60803

Location: 17 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Rt. 50/Cicero Ave., 127th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-385-6902 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Community District 218. Grades K-8: Alsip-Hazelgreen-OakLawn District 126, Atwood Heights District 125, Blue Island District 130. No private schools are located in Alsip.

Child Care: Two child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Alsip.

Public Library: Alsip Public Library: 11960 S. Pulaski Road. 708-371-5666

Park District: Alsip Park District, 12521 S. Kostner, 708-389-1003

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 65/35.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $141,200. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,196. Median Rent: $646

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Bedford Park: Population 600. Zip Code 60501

Location: 15 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Cicero Ave., 79th. St., 87th. St., Central Ave., Narragansett Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-458-2067.

Schools: Grades 9-12: Reavis District 220. Grades K-8: Summit District 104. No private schools are located in Bedford Park.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Bedford Park.

Public Library: Bedford Park Public Library: 7816 W. 65th. 708-430-3688

Park District: Burbank Park District, 8050 Newcastle Ave., 708-599-2070

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 93/7.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $135,400. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,145. Median Rent: $508

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Blue Island: Population 23,500. Zip Code 60406

Location: 18 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Dixie Hwy., Crawford Ave., 159th. St.

Government: City Hall, 708-597-8602 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Community District 218. Grades K-8: Blue Island District 130, Calumet District 132, West Harvey-Dixmoor District 147. Three private schools are located in Blue Island.

Child Care: Five child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Blue Island.

Public Library: Blue Island Public Library. 2433 York St., 708-388-1078

Park District: Blue Island Park District, 12804 Highland Ave., 708-385-3304

Housing Statistics:

Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 54/46.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $99,400. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,062. Median Rent: $578

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Bridgeview: Population 15,300. Zip Code 60455

Location: 15 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Cicero Ave., 95th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-594-2525 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Argo District 217. Grades K-8: Indian Springs District 109. Two private schools are located in Bridgeview.

Child Care: Three child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Bridgeview.

Public Library: Bridgeview Public Library: 7840 W. 79th. St. 708-458-2880

Park District: Bridgeview Park District, 8100 S. Beloit Ave., 708-594-1818

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 75/25.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $144,600. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,232. Median Rent: $670

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Burbank: Population 27,900. Zip Code 60459

Location: 15 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Cicero Ave., 79th. St., 87th. St, Central Ave. Narragansett Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-599-5900 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Reavis District 220. Grades K-8: Burbank District 111. Four private schools are located in Burbank.

Child Care: Three child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Burbank.

Public Library: Prairie Trails Public Library: 8449 Moody Ave. 708-430-3688

Park District: Burbank Park District, 8050 Newcastle Ave., 708-599-2070

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 83/17.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $137,800. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,174. Median Rent: $682

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Burnham: Population 4,200. Zip Code 60633

Location: 23 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Dixie Hwy., Crawford Ave., 159th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-862-9150 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton District 205. Grades K-8: Burnham District 154-5. No private schools are located in Burnham.

Child Care: Two child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Burnham.

Public Library: Dolton Public Library: 14037 Lincoln Ave. 708-849-2385

Park District: Dolton Park District, 721 Engle, 708-841-2111.

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 74/26.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $90,400. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $968. Median Rent: $621

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Calumet City: Population 39,000. Zip Code 60409

Location: 30 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southeastern Cook County. Local roads: Dixie Hwy., Crawford Ave., 159th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-891-8110 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton Fractional District 215. Grades K-8: Dolton District 149, Hoover-Schrum District 157, Lincoln District 156, Calumet City District 155. Three private schools are located in Calumet City.

Child Care: One child-care center and/or preschool is located in Calumet City.

Public Library: Calumet City Public Library: 660 Manistree. 708-862-6220

Park District: Calumet Memorial Park District, 612 Wentworth Ave., 708-862-6440

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 63/37.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $90,300. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,012. Median Rent: $630

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Calumet Park: Population 8,500. Zip Code 60827

Location: 21 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Rt. 1, 127th. St

Government: Village Hall, 708-389-0850 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Community District 218. Grades K-8: Calumet District 132. One private school is located in Calumet Park.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Calumet Park.

Public Library: Blue Island Public Library. 2433 York St., 708-388-1078

Park District: Blue Island Park District, 12804 Highland Ave., 708-385-3304

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 68/32.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $91,600. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,017. Median Rent: $621

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Chicago Heights: Population 32,800. Zip Code 60411

Location: 28 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Governors Hwy., Western Ave., Lincoln Hwy., Crawford Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-756-5315 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bloom District 206, Homewood-Flossmoor District 233, Rich District 227. Grades K-8: Chicago Heights District 170, Flossmoor District 161, Park Forest District 163, Brookwood District 167. Five private schools are located in Chicago Heights.

Child Care: Sixteen child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Chicago Heights.

Public Library: Chicago Heights Public Library: 25. W. 15th St. 708-754-0323

Park District: Chicago Heights Park District, 1400 Chicago Road, 708-755-1351

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 63/37.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $94,800. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,035. Median Rent: $566

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Chicago Ridge: Population 14,100. Zip Code 60415

Location: 20 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Rt. 12/20, Rt. 43 - Harlem Ave., Rt. 50 - Cicero Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-425-7700 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Community District 218. Grades K-8: Chicago Ridge District 127-5, Ridgeland District 122. One private school is located in Chicago Ridge.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Chicago Ridge.

Public Library: Chicago Ridge Public Library: 6301 W. Birmingham Ave/512 Chicago Ridge Mall. 708-423-7753/2227.

Park District: Chicago Ridge Park District, 10736 S. Lombard, 708-857-2653

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 52/48.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $138,500. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,154. Median Rent: $676

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Country Club Hills: Population 16,200. Zip Code 60477

Location: 22 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Cicero Ave., 183rd. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-798-2616 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bremen District 228, Rich District 227. Grades K-8: Country Club Hills District 160, Prairie Hills District 144. Two private schools are located in Country Club Hills.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Country Club Hills.

Public Library: Grande Prairie Public Library 3479 W. 183rd. Street in Hazel Crest, 708-798-5563

Park District: Hazel Crest Park District, 2600 W. 171st. St., 708-335-1500

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 92/8.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $109,400. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,205. Median Rent: $972

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Crestwood: Population 11,300. Zip Code 60445

Location: 21 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Rt. 12/20, Rt. 43 - Harlem Ave., Rt. 50 - Cicero Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-371-4800 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Community District 218. Grades K-8: Blue Island District 130, Forest Ridge District 142, Midlothian District 143. No private schools are located in Crestwood.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Crestwood.

Public Library: Crestwood Public Library: 4955 W. 135th. St. 708-4371-4090

Park District: Alsip Park District, 12521 S. Kostner, 708-389-1003

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 82/18.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $149,000. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,108. Median Rent: $640

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Dolton: Population 25,600. Zip Code 60419

Location: 23 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southeastern Cook County. Local roads: Lincoln Ave., Indiana Ave.

Government: City Hall, 708-849-4000 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton Twp. District 205. Grades K-8: Dolton District 148, Dolton District 149. One private school is located in Dolton.

Child Care: Six child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Dolton.

Public Library: Dolton Public Library: 14037 Lincoln Ave. 708-849-2385

Park District: Dolton Park District, 721 Engle, 708-841-2111

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 82/18.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $92,800. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,082. Median Rent: $686

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Evergreen Park: Population 20,800. Zip Code 60805

Location: 17 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Western Ave., 95th. St., Pulaski Rd.

Government: Village Hall, 708-422-1551 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Evergreen Park District 231, Grades K-8: Evergreen Park District 124. Two private schools are located in Evergreen Park

Child Care: Four child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Evergreen Park

Public Library: Evergreen Park Public Library: 9400 S. Troy Ave. 708-422-8522

Park District: Evergreen Park Recreation Department, 3450 W. 97th. St., 708-499-0041

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 85/15.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $134,900. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,160. Median Rent: $623

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Flossmoor: Population 9,300. Zip Code 60430

Location: 25 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Governors Hwy., Western Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-798-2300 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Homewood-Flossmoor District 233, Grades K-8: Flossmoor District 161. Two private schools are located in Flossmoor.

Child Care: Number child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Flossmoor.

Public Library: Flossmoor Public Library: 1000 Sterling Ave. 708-798-4006.

Park District: Homewood-Flossmoor Park District, 3301 Flossmoor Rd., 708-957-0300

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 95/5.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $216,200. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,947. Median Rent: $989

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Ford Heights: Population 3,500. Zip Code 60411

Location: 28 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Governors Hwy., Western Ave., Lincoln Hwy., Crawford Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-758-3131

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bloom District 206, Rich District 227Grades K-8: Ford Heights District 169. No private schools are located in Ford Heights.

Child Care: One child-care center and/or preschool is located in Ford Heights.

Public Library: Chicago Heights Public Library: 25. W. 15th St. 708-754-0323

Park District: Chicago Heights Park District, 1400 Chicago Road, 708-755-1351

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 32/68.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $42,300. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $668. Median Rent: $465

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Glenwood: Population 9,000. Zip Code 60425

Location: 23 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Glenwood-Lansing Rd., Cottage Grove Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-753-2400

Schools: Grades 9-12: Homewood-Flossmoor District 233, Bloom District 206. Grades K-8: Brookwood District 167. One private school is located in Glenwood.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Glenwood.

Public Library: Glenwood-Lynwood Public Library. 320 Glenwood-Lansing Road, 708-758-00909

Park District: Chicago Heights Park District, 1400 Chicago Road, 708-755-1351

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 86/14.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $126,800. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,199. Median Rent: $702

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Harvey: Population 30,000. Zip Code 60426

Location: 20 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: 159th. St., Indiana Ave., Halsted St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-210-5300. Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton District 205, Bremen District 228 Grades K-8: Harvey District 152, West Harvey-Dixmoor District 147, South Holland District 151. One private school is located in Harvey.

Child Care: Eleven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Harvey.

Public Library: Harvey Public Library: 155th. & Turlington Ave. 708-331-0757

Park District: Harvey Park District, 15335 Broadway Avenue, 708-331-3857

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 56/44.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $70,500. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $879. Median Rent: $593

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Hazel Crest: Population 14,800. Zip Code 60429

Location: 22 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Dixie Hwy., Crawford Ave., 159th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-335-9600 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bremen District 228, Thornton District 205, Homewood-Flossmoor District 233. Grades K-8: Prairie Hills District 144, Hazel Crest District 152-5, Homewood District 153. Two private schools are located in Hazel Crest.

Child Care: Seven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Hazel Crest.

Public Library: Grande Prairie Public Library: 3479 W. 183rd St. 708-798-5563

Park District: Hazel Crest Park District, 2600 W. 171st. St., 708-335-1500

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 81/19.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $98,700. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,158. Median Rent: $934

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Hickory Hills: Population 13,900. Zip Code 60457

Location: 19 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Harlem Ave., 95th. St., Rt. 45, 79th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-598-4800 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Consolidated District 230, Argo District 217. Grades K-8: North Palos District 117, Indian Springs District 109. One private school is located in Hickory Hills.

Child Care: Two child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Hickory Hills.

Public Library: Green Hills Library 8611. W. 103rd. St. 708-598-8446 (Palos Hills)

Park District: Hickory Hills Park District, 8047 W. 91st. Place, 708-598-1233

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 73/27.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $164,200. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,354. Median Rent: $646

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Hodgkins: Population 2,100. Zip Code 60525

Location: 18 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: U.S. 45/Mannheim Rd., 55th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-579-6700 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Argo District 217. Grades K-8: LaGrange District 105 (South). No private schools are located in Hodkins.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Hodgkins.

Public Library: Hodgkins Public Library: 6500 Wenz Ave. 708-579-1844

Park District: Hodgkins Park District, 8997 Lyons St., 708-354-6563

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 65/35.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $160,800. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,236. Median Rent: $604

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Homewood: Population 19,500. Zip Code 60430

Location: 25 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Dixie Hwy., Western Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-798-3000 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Homewood-Flossmoor District 233. Grades K-8: Homewood District 153, Flossmoor District 161. One private school is located in Homewood.

Child Care: Nine child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Homewood.

Public Library: Homewood Public Library: 17917 Dixie Hwy. 708-798-0121

Park District: Homewood-Flossmoor Park District, 3301 Flossmoor Rd. in Flossmoor, 708-957-0300

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 85/15.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $137,300. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,319. Median Rent: $741

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Justice: Population 12,200. Zip Code 60458

Location: 18 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: 79th. St, Archer Ave

Government: Village Hall, 708-458-2520 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Argo District 217. Grades K-8: Indian Springs District 109. No private schools are located in Justice.

Child Care: One child-care center and/or preschool is located in Justice.

Public Library: Justice Public Library: 7641 Oak Grove Ave., 708-496-1790

Park District: Justice Park District, 7747 S. Oak Grove Ave., 708-458-1370

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 53/47.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $143,500. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,199. Median Rent: $712

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Lansing: Population 28,300. Zip Code 60438

Location: 26 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southeastern Cook County. Local roads: Dixie Hwy., Crawford Ave., 159th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-895-7200 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton Fractional District 215. Grades K-8: Sunnybrook District 171, Lansing District 158. Seven private schools are located in Lansing.

Child Care: Seven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Lansing.

Public Library: Lansing Public Library: 2750 Indiana Ave. 708-474-2447

Park District: Lan-Oak Park District, 17551 Chicago Ave., 708-474-5020

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 75/25.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $118,700. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,082. Median Rent: $658

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Lemont: Population 31,100. Zip Code 60439

Location: 27 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County, and Northwestern Will County. Local roads: McCarthy Rd., Lemont Rd./State St.

Government: Village Hall, 630-257-1550 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Lemont District 210. Grades K-8: Lemont-Bromberek CSD 113A. Three private schools are located in Lemont.

Child Care: Five child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Lemont.

Public Library: Lemont Public Library: 50 E. Wend St. 630-257-6541

Park District: Lemont Park District, 16028 127th St., 630-257-6787

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 83/17.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $225,700. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,478. Median Rent: $753

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Lynwood: Population 7,400. Zip Code 60411

Location: 30 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southeastern Cook County. Local roads: Glenwood-Dyer Rd./Rte. 83, Torrence Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-758-6101 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton Fractional District 21, Bloom District 2065. Grades K-8: Sandridge District 172, Sunnybrook District 171. No private schools are located in Lynwood.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Lynwood.

Public Library: Glenwood-Lynwood Public Library. 320 Glenwood-Lansing Road, 708-758-00909

Park District: Chicago Heights Park District, 1400 Chicago Road, 708-755-1351

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 88/12.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $140,800. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,373. Median Rent: $639

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Markham: Population 12,600. Zip Code 60426

Location: 20 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Dixie Hwy., Crawford Ave., 159th St.

Government: City Hall, 708-331-4905 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bremen District 228, Homewood-Flossmoor District 233. Grades K-8: Prairie Hills District 144, Hazel Crest District 152-5. One private school is located in Markham.

Child Care: Five child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Markham.

Public Library: Markham Public Library: 16640 Kedzie Ave. 708-331-0130.

Park District: Markham Park District, 16053 Richmond Ave., 708-596-3368.

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 84/16.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $75,200. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $894. Median Rent: $776

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Matteson: Population 12,900. Zip Code 60443

Location: 30 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Governors Hwy., Western Ave., Lincoln Hwy., Crawford Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-283-4900 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Rich District 227, Grades K-8: Matteson/Richton District 159, Matteson District 162. Two private schools are located in Matteson.

Child Care: Seven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Matteson.

Public Library: Matteson Public Library, 801 S. School Ave., 708-748-4431

Park District: Matteson Parks & Recreation Dept., 4450 W. Oakwood Lane, 708-748-1080

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 82/18.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $135,100. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,332. Median Rent: $711

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Midlothian: Population 14,300. Zip Code 60445

Location: 21 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Rt. 50/Cicero Ave., Rt. 83

Government: Village Hall, 708-389-0200 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bremen District 228. Grades K-8: Midlothian District 143, Forest Ridge District 142. One private school is located in Midlothian.

Child Care: Five child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Midlothian.

Public Library: Midlothian Public Library: 14701 Kenton Ave. 708-535-2027

Park District: Midlothian Park District, 14500 S. Kostner, 708-371-6191

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 80/20.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $114,800. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,077. Median Rent: $593

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Oak Forest: Population 28,000. Zip Code 60452

Location: 22 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Cicero Ave., 159th. St.

Government: City Hall, 708-687-4050 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bremen District 228. Grades K-8: Forest Ridge District 142, Prairie Hills District 144, Arbor Park District 145, Tinley Park District 146. One private school is located in Oak Forest.

Child Care: Five child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Oak Forest.

Public Library: Acorn Public Library: 15624 Central. 708-687-3700

Park District: Oak Forest Park District, 15601 S. Central Ave., 708-687-7270

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 82/18.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $149,200. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,306. Median Rent: $667

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Oak Lawn: Population 55,200. Zip Code 60453

Location: 15 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Cicero Ave., 95th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-636-4400 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Community District 218, Oak Lawn District 229Grades K-8: Ridgeland District 122, Oak Lawn-Hometown District 123, Atwood Heights District 125. Ten private schools are located in Oak Lawn.

Child Care: Eleven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Oak Lawn.

Public Library: Oak Lawn Public Library: 8427 S. Raymond. 708-422-4990

Park District: Oak Lawn Park District, 5760 W. 95th. St., 708-857-2225

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 83/17.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $157,000. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,249. Median Rent: $687

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Olympia Fields: Population 4,700. Zip Code 60461

Location: 25 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Governors Hwy., Western Ave., Lincoln Hwy., Crawford Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-503-8000 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Homewood-Flossmoor District 233, Rich District 227. Grades K-8: Flossmoor District 161, Matteson District 162. No private schools are located in Olympia Fields.

Child Care: One child-care center and/or preschools is located in Olympia Fields.

Public Library: Park Forest Public Library, 400 Lakewood Blvd., 708-748-3731

Park District: Olympia Fields Park District, 20712 Western Ave., 708-481-7313

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 95/5.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $234,200. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,985. Median Rent: $2,000+

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Orland Hills: Population 6,800. Zip Code 60462

Location: 27 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: 143rd. St., 159th. St., 96th. Ave., Harlem Ave.

Government: City Hall, 708-349-6865

Schools: Grades 9-12: Consolidated District 230. Grades K-8: Kirby District 140. Two private schools are located in Orland Hills.

Child Care: One child-care center and/or preschool is located in Orland Hills.

Public Library: Tinley Park Public Library: 17101 71st. Ave. 708-532-0160

Park District: Orland Park Recreation Department, 14560 Ravinia Ave., 708-403-7275

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 78/22.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $156,900. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,282. Median Rent: $755

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Orland Park: Population 36,000. Zip Code 60462

Location: 26 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: 143rd. St., 159th. St., 96th. Ave, Harlem Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-403-6155 Community Web Sites: Community Profile, Village Profile

Schools: Grades 9-12: Consolidated District 230. Grades K-8: Orland District 135, Kirby District 140, Tinley Park District 14, Palos District 118. One private school is located in Orland Park.

Child Care: Eleven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Orland Park.

Public Library: Orland Park Public Library: 14760 Park Lane. 708-349-8138

Park District: Orland Park Recreation Department, 14560 Ravinia Ave., 708-403-7275

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 91/9.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $208,300. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,508. Median Rent: $760

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Palos Heights: Population 11,300. Zip Code 60463

Location: 22 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Harlem Ave./Rt. 43, 111th. St., McCarthy Rd.

Government: Village Hall, 708-361-1800 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Community District 218, Consolidated District 230. Grades K-8: Palos Heights District 128, Palos District 118. Five private schools are located in Palos Heights.

Child Care: Seven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Palos Heights.

Public Library: Palos Heights Public Library: 12501 71st. Avenue, 708-448-1473

Park District: Palos Heights Recreation Dept., 6601 W. 127th. St., 708-361-1807

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 97/3.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $219,500. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,558. Median Rent: $1,053

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Palos Hills: Population 17,700. Zip Code 60463

Location: 22 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Harlem Ave./Rt. 43, 111th. St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-598-3400 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Consolidated District 230. Grades K-8: North Palos District 117, Palos District 118. No private schools are located in Palos Hills.

Child Care: Five child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Palos Hills.

Public Library: Green Hills Public Library 8611 W. 103rd. St. 708-598-8446

Park District: Palos Heights Recreation Dept., 6601 W. 127th. St., 708-361-1807

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 78/22.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $174,000. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,283. Median Rent: $758

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Palos Park: Population 4,700. Zip Code 60464

Location: 22 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Harlem Ave./Rt. 43, 111th. St., McCarthy Road.

Government: Village Hall, 708-448-2700 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Consolidated District 230. Grades K-8: North Palos District 117, Palos District 118. No private schools are located in Palos Park.

Child Care: Number child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Palos Park.

Public Library: Palos Park Public Library: 12330 Forest Glen Blvd. 708-448-1530

Park District: N Palos Park Recreation Dept., 8901 W. 123rd. St., 708-361-1535

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 97/3.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $286,800. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,818. Median Rent: $763

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Park Forest: Population 23,500. Zip Code 60466

Location: 35 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County and Northern Will County. Local roads: Western Ave., Lincoln Hwy.

Government: Village Hall, 708-748-1112 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Rich District 227, Grades K-8: Crete-Monee C U District 201U, Park Forest District 163, Matteson District 162, Steger District 194. One private school is located in Park Forest.

Child Care: Eighteen child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Park Forest.

Public Library: Park Forest Public Library: 400 Lakewood Blvd. 708-748-3731

Park District: Park Forest Recreation Department, 200 Park Forest, 708-748-2005

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 74/26.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $84,400. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $978. Median Rent: $689

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Richton Park: Population 12,500. Zip Code 60471

Location: 32 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Lincoln Hwy., Cicero Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-481-8950 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Rich District 227, Grades K-8: Matteson/Richton District 159, Matteson District 162. No private schools are located in Richton Park.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Richton Park.

Public Library: Richton Park Public Library: 4045 Sauk Trail. 708-481-5333

Park District: Richton Park Recreation Dept., 44455 Sauk Trail, 708-481-5086

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 66/34.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $125,700. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,197. Median Rent: $694

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Riverdale: Population 14,000. Zip Code 60827

Location: 23 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southeastern Cook County. Local roads: Halsted St., 127th. St., Sibley Blvd.

Government: Village Hall, 708-841-220 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton District 205. Grades K-8: Patton District 133, Dolton District 148. One private school is located in Riverdale.

Child Care: Seven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Riverdale.

Public Library: Riverdale Public Library: 208 W. 144th. St. 708-841-3311

Park District: Riverdale Park District, 151 W. 137th. St., 708-841-0095; Ivanhoe Park District, 144th & Stewart, 708-841-8720

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 57/43.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $82,600. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $956. Median Rent: $652

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Posen/Robbins: Population 4,700 (Posen), 6,600 (Robbins). Zip Code 60469 (Posen), 60472 (Robbins)

Location: 21 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Dixie Hwy., Rt. 83

Government: Village Hall, 708-385-0139 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bremen District 228. Grades K-8: Posen-Robbins District 143.5. One private school is located in Posen, none are located in Robbins.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Posen or Robbins.

Public Library: William Leonard Public Library, 13820 Central Park Ave. in Robbins, 708-597-2760.

Park District: Posen Park District, 14300 Campbell Ave., 708-371-1484.

Housing Statistics: Posen: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 79/21.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $91,700. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $965. Median Rent: $539

Robbins: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 56/44.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $56,400. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $706. Median Rent: $526

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Sauk Village: Population 10,400. Zip Code 60411

Location: 35 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southeastern Cook County. Local roads: Torrence Ave., Lincoln Hwy.

Government: Village Hall, 708-758-3333 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bloom District 206. Grades K-8: C. C. District 168. Two private schools are located in Sauk Village.

Child Care: One child-care center and/or preschool is located in Sauk Village.

Public Library: Sauk Village Public Library: 7 Surreybrook Plaza. 708-757-4771.

Park District: Chicago Heights Park District, 1400 Chicago Road, 708-755-1351.

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 81/19.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $77,300. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $847. Median Rent: $716

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South Chicago Heights: Population 4,000. Zip Code 60412

Location: 35 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southeastern Cook County. Local roads: Torrence Ave., Lincoln Hwy.

Government: Village Hall, 708-755-1880 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bloom District 206. Grades K-8: Steger District 194, Chicago Heights District 170. One private school is located in South Chicago Heights.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in South Chicago Heights.

Public Library: Steger-South Chicago Heights Public Library. 54 E. 31st. St. in Steger, 708-755-5040

Park District: Chicago Heights Park District, 1400 Chicago Road, 708-755-1351.

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 71/29.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $93,600. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,028. Median Rent: $546

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South Holland: Population 22,100. Zip Code 60473

Location: 23 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: 159th. St., Indiana Ave., Halsted St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-210-2910 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton District 205. Grades K-8: South Holland District 151, South Holland District 150, Dolton District 149. Six private schools are located in South Holland.

Child Care: Eleven child-care centers and/or preschools are located in South Holland.

Public Library: South Holland Public Library: 16250 Wausau Ave., 708-331-5262

Park District: South Holland Recreation Department, 501 E. 170th. St., 708-331-2940

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 93/7.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $133,600. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,309. Median Rent: $637

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Steger: Population 9,700. Zip Code 60475

Location: 35 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southeastern County. Local roads: Torrence Ave., Lincoln Hwy.

Government: Village Hall, 708-754-3395 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Bloom District 206. Grades K-8: Steger District 194. One private school is located in Steger.

Child Care: Two child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Steger.

Public Library: Steger-South Chicago Heights Public Library. 54 E. 31st. St. in Steger, 708-755-5040

Park District: Chicago Heights Park District, 1400 Chicago Road, 708-755-1351.

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 66/34.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $98,000. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $988. Median Rent: $610

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Summit: Population 10,600. Zip Code 60501

Location: 12 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Cicero Ave., 79th. St., 87th. St., Central Ave., Narragansett Ave.

Government: Village Hall, 708-563-4852. Community Web Sites: Summit-Argo, Village Profile

Schools: Grades 9-12: Argo District 217, Grades K-8: Summit District 104. No private schools are located in Summit.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Summit.

Public Library: Summit Public Library: 7816 W. 65th. 708-430-3688

Park District: Summit Park District, 5700 S. Archer Road, 708-496-1012

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 53/47.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $109,200. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,061. Median Rent: $553

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Thornton: Population 2,600. Zip Code 60476

Location: 26 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southern Cook County. Local roads: Rte. 83.

Government: Village Hall, 708-877-4456 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Thornton District 205, Grades K-8: Thornton District 154. No private schools are located in Thornton.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Thornton.

Public Library: South Holland Public Library: 16250 Wausau Ave., 708-331-5262

Park District: South Holland Recreation Department, 501 E. 170th. St., 708-331-2940

Housing Statistics: No statistics are available.

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Tinley Park: Population 48,400. Zip Code 60477

Location: 29 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: 159th. St, Harlem Ave

Government: City Hall, 708-444-5000 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Consolidated District 230, Bremen District 228. Grades K-8: Arbor Park District 145, Kirby District 140, Tinley Park District 146, Summit Hill District 161. Four private schools are located in Tinley Park.

Child Care: Ten child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Tinley Park.

Public Library: Tinley Park Public Library: 17101 71st. Ave. 708-532-0160

Park District: Park District of Tinley Park, 16801 S. 80th. Ave., 708-532-8698

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 85/15.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $169,300. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,341. Median Rent: $709

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Willow Springs: Population 5,000. Zip Code 60480

Location: 20 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: U.S. 45, I-171

Government: Village Hall, 708-839-2701 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Lyons District 204, Argo District 217. Grades K-8: Willow Springs District 108, Pleasantdale District 107. No private schools are located in Willow Springs.

Child Care: No child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Willow Springs.

Public Library: Justice Public Library: 7641 Oak Grove Ave., 708-496-1790

Park District: Justice Park District, 7747 S. Oak Grove Ave., 708-458-1370

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 86/14.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $215,200. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,367. Median Rent: $663

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Worth: Population 11,000. Zip Code 60482

Location: 20 miles from Downtown Chicago in Southwestern Cook County. Local roads: Harlem Ave./Rt. 43, 111th St.

Government: Village Hall, 708-448-1181 Community Web Site

Schools: Grades 9-12: Community District 218, Grades K-8: Worth District 127, Alsip-Hazelgreen-OakLawn District 126. No private schools are located in Worth

Child Care: Two child-care centers and/or preschools are located in Worth.

Public Library: Worth Public Library: 6917 W. 111th. St. 708-448-2855

Park District: Worth Park District, 115th. & Beloit, 708-448-7080

Housing Statistics: Percentages (%) of Owner-Occupied/Rental Housing: 69/31.

Median Price of Housing (Owner-Occupied): $141,400. Median Mortgage/Selected Owner Costs: $1,192. Median Rent: $653

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