Park Forest, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,156
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,072/yr
-2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,841
-1.9% year-over-year change

Park Forest population

How many people live in Park Forest

Park Forest is home to 21,156 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45% of Park Forest locals are male, and 55% are female.

Total population
21,156
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45%
9,530
Female
55%
11,626
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,530 45% 1.9%
Female 11,626 55% 0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Park Forest is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.6% of the population, while another 23.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
28.6%
45 to 64
23.2%
Over 65
15.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,866 18.3% -6.5%
15 to 24 2,981 14.1% 4.0%
25 to 44 6,050 28.6% 0.8%
45 to 64 4,919 23.2% 6.3%
Over 65 3,340 15.8% 2.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Park Forest, 91.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 20.8% of locals are Caucasian, 67.9% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.3%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,403 91.7% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,124 5.3% 42.3%
Non-citizens 629 3% -1.3%
Racial breakdown
White
20.8%
Black or African American
67.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
5.3%
Value Percent
White 4,410 20.8%
Black or African American 14,371 67.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 307 1.4%
Asian 73 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7 0%
Two or more races 870 4.1%
Other 1,118 5.3%

Households in Park Forest

A peek inside Park Forest households

Park Forest has 8,129 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.3% are families, while the remaining 35.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,129
-1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,902
Family households
5,227
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,902 35.7% -10.0%
Family households 5,227 64.3% 4.8%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Park Forest

The housing landscape of Park Forest

Park Forest's housing consists of 8,841 units, with 61.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 23.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,841
-1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,455 61.7%
1 unit, attached 2,085 23.6%
2 units 92 1%
3 or 4 units 215 2.4%
5 to 9 units 155 1.8%
10 to 19 units 198 2.2%
20 to 49 units 167 1.9%
50 or more units 466 5.3%
Mobile home 8 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Park Forest

In Park Forest, the median construction year is 1958. About 2.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 253 2.9% 52.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 767 8.7% -2.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,236 47.9% -3.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,883 21.3% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 962 10.9% 8.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 272 3.1% -20.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 226 2.6% -18.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 217 2.4% -10.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 25 0.3% 0.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Park Forest occupancy rates

Out of the 8,129 occupied housing units in Park Forest, 65.8% are owner-occupied, while 34.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,129
-1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,778
Owner occupied
5,351
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,778 34.2% -4.8%
Owner occupied 5,351 65.8% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
8.1%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Park Forest housing costs

Housing costs in Park Forest come to a median of $1,137 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,365.

Median housing costs per month
$1,137/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Park Forest
$1,365/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Park Forest

Park Forest education at a glance

About 30.5% of the population in Park Forest went to high school, while 33.9% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 14.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 560 3.4% -4.1%
High school diploma 4,957 30.5% 3.0%
College diploma 5,517 33.9% 8.2%
Associate degree 1,588 9.8% 11.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,382 14.6% 7.5%
Graduate degree 1,257 7.7% -14.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Park Forest

How much people earn in Park Forest

The average annual household income in Park Forest was $75,877 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,072, reflecting a -2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Park Forest
$75,877/year
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Park Forest
$61,072/year
-2.0% year-over-year change

Park Forest income by age

In Park Forest, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $58,325. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $68,494 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,500, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,297 in earnings. Overall, 82.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,500 N/A
25 - 44 $58,325 -6.5%
45 - 64 $68,494 0.5%
Over 65 $56,297 24.6%
Above poverty level
17,283
Below poverty level
3,663
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,283 82.5% 0.8%
Below poverty level 3,663 17.5% 2.5%

Average renter income in Park Forest

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Park Forest, their median household income was $57,015 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$57,015
Rent-to-income ratio
28.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Park Forest

Workforce and job types in Park Forest

The job market in Park Forest is powered by 9,568 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 63.9% are employed by private companies, and 16.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,568
-0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,823
Blue collar
2,745
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,823 71.3% -0.4%
Blue collar 2,745 28.7% -1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
63.9%
Governmental workers
16.4%
Not for profit companies
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 775 8.1% 28.5%
Private companies 6,118 63.9% -0.6%
Governmental workers 1,566 16.4% -18.2%
Not for profit companies 1,109 11.6% 15.3%
Unemployment rate
8.7%
21.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Park Forest stands at 8.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Park Forest

How people get around in Park Forest

Commuting methods vary: 83.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,627 83.3% 1.1%
Taxicab 96 1% 464.7%
Bus or trolleybus 107 1.2% -36.3%
Subway or elevated 47 0.5% N/A
Railroad 310 3.4% -18.4%
Walk 77 0.8% 42.6%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Park Forest by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60466 21,461 8,237 $61,654 $76,771

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FAQs about Park Forest demographics 

What is the total population of Park Forest?

Park Forest has a total population of 21,156 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Park Forest?

The gender ratio in Park Forest is as follows:
  • 45% males (9,530 residents)
  • 55% females (11,626 residents)

What is the median age in Park Forest?

The median age in Park Forest is 36.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Park Forest?

The age distribution in Park Forest is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (3,866 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (2,981 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.6% (6,050 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.2% (4,919 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.8% (3,340 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Park Forest?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Park Forest is as follows:
  • White: 20.8% (4,410 residents)
  • Black or African American: 67.9% (14,371 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (307 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (73 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (7 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (870 residents)
  • Other: 5.3% (1,118 residents)

What percentage of the population in Park Forest are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.7% of the population in Park Forest.

How many housing units are there in Park Forest?

There are 8,841 housing units in Park Forest, reflecting a -1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Park Forest and what is the average household size?

Park Forest has a total of 8,129 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Park Forest?

Park Forest has a median household income of $61,072, representing a -2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Park Forest?

The employment rate is 91.3% in Park Forest, with a workforce of 9,568 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.3% (6,823 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.7% (2,745 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (775 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.9% (6,118 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.4% (1,566 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.6% (1,109 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025