Glen Ellyn, IL, a charming village located in DuPage County, is often celebrated for its picturesque settings and vibrant community life.
This article provides an in-depth look at what makes Glen Ellyn a desirable place to live, using data and insights from multiple sources to evaluate the quality of living in this suburban gem.
General Overview of Glen Ellyn
Glen Ellyn, IL, is a picturesque village located in DuPage County, renowned for its charming suburban atmosphere and robust community amenities. As of 2024, the village boasts a population of approximately 28,846 residents, reflecting modest growth in recent years.
This community is characterized by its high educational attainment, with nearly 69% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a median household income significantly above the national average at around $128,132.
Glen Ellyn’s demographic profile shows a predominantly white population (81.8%), with smaller percentages of Asians (7.7%), Hispanics (4.8%), and Blacks (2.6%)​.
The village is well-regarded for its low crime rates and strong emphasis on public safety. The overall crime rate in Glen Ellyn is 60% lower than the Illinois state average, and 62% lower than the national average, making it one of the safer communities in the region.
The Glen Ellyn Police Department, with its 45 sworn officers, ensures a secure environment for all residents​.
Additionally, Glen Ellyn’s vibrant community life is highlighted by numerous annual events such as the “Taste of Glen Ellyn” and the 4th of July Parade and Fireworks, which draw large crowds and foster a strong sense of local pride​
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Glen Ellyn, IL, is notably higher than the national average. As of 2024, Glen Ellyn’s overall cost of living index is 33% higher than the national average, making it a relatively expensive place to reside.
Housing costs significantly contribute to this higher index, with the median home value around $467,600, which is significantly above both state and national averages.
Additionally, rental prices are substantial, with the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment standing at approximately $1,360 per month. Other living expenses, such as groceries and healthcare, are also higher than the national average, with food costs being 14.6% higher and healthcare expenses 21.8% higher.
Transportation costs in Glen Ellyn are only slightly above the national average by about 2.9%, reflecting the village’s accessibility and efficient public transit options.
However, utility costs are fairly moderate, with only a 2% increase compared to the national average.
The overall tax burden in Glen Ellyn is considerably higher, with taxes being 76.4% higher than in some other regions like Wesley Chapel, Florida.
This includes higher property taxes, sales taxes, and various other local taxes that contribute to the overall cost of living. Despite these higher costs, the village’s amenities, safety, and community offerings continue to make Glen Ellyn an attractive place to live.
Safety and Crime Rates
Glen Ellyn, IL, is recognized as one of the safest places to live in the United States. The village’s crime rates are significantly lower than both the state and national averages.
For instance, the overall crime rate in Glen Ellyn is about 13.17 per 1,000 residents annually, placing it in the 93rd percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than 93% of U.S. cities.
Violent crime rates are especially low, with a chance of becoming a victim at 1 in 2,026, and property crime rates stand at 1 in 579. This makes Glen Ellyn considerably safer compared to many surrounding areas.
Violent crimes, including assault, rape, and robbery, are particularly infrequent in Glen Ellyn. The village’s violent crime rate is about 0.49 per 1,000 residents, well below the national average.
Property crimes, such as burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, are also lower than average, contributing to the village’s reputation as a safe place to live.
Residents generally consider thenorthernh part of the city to be the safest, with crime rates varying slightly by neighborhood. Glen Ellyn’s law enforcement is highly regarded for its visibility and responsiveness, contributing to the overall sense of security in the community.
Education System
The education system in Glen Ellyn, IL, is highly regarded for its quality and comprehensive offerings, encompassing both public schools and higher education institutions. Community Consolidated School District 89 (CCSD 89) serves a significant portion of the village, providing education to nearly 2,300 students across five schools. The district boasts a high level of student achievement, with schools such as Arbor View, Park View, and Westfield Elementary Schools ranking in the top 10% of all Illinois public schools based on state testing proficiency.
The district’s average spending per student is $18,446, which is below the state median, yet it maintains robust academic performance and comprehensive educational programs.
Glen Ellyn is also home to the College of DuPage, one of the top-ranked community colleges in the region.
The College of DuPage offers a wide range of associate degree programs, certificates, and continuing education opportunities, serving as a crucial educational resource for both traditional and non-traditional students.
The college has a notable completion rate and provides significant financial aid to its students.
The College of DuPage’s commitment to accessible and high-quality education is reflected in its extensive program offerings and support services, catering to a diverse student body and preparing them for successful transfers to four-year institutions or entry into the workforce.
Economic Factors
Glen Ellyn, IL, boasts a vibrant economy supported by a diverse range of sectors and a proactive approach to economic development. The village has a strong commercial presence, highlighted by a mix of retail, dining, and service businesses.
Economic initiatives such as the Downtown Retail Interior Improvement Award Program and the Commercial Façade Improvement Award Program provide financial assistance to businesses for enhancing their premises.
These programs are designed to maintain the attractiveness and competitiveness of Glen Ellyn’s commercial areas, encouraging both new investments and the growth of existing businesses.
Additionally, the village supports economic growth through tax increment financing (TIF) districts, which help fund infrastructure improvements and spur further development.
The labor force in Glen Ellyn is well-educated and highly skilled, contributing to the village’s economic resilience. Approximately 74.9% of residents aged 25 to 64 hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, significantly higher than the national average.
This educated workforce supports a median household income of about $128,132, which is substantially above the national median. The village’s strategic location near major transportation routes and its proximity to Chicago further bolster its economic prospects, making it an attractive location for both businesses and residents. For those planning to relocate to Glen Ellyn, hiring a moving company can facilitate the transition, ensuring a smooth move and helping new residents get acquainted with the community.
Community and Culture
Glen Ellyn, IL, is a village that prides itself on a strong sense of community and vibrant cultural life. The village hosts a variety of community events and festivals that foster a close-knit atmosphere among residents.
One of the standout events is the annual “Taste of Glen Ellyn,” a celebration that features local food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities, drawing residents and visitors alike.
Additionally, the Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce organizes numerous events throughout the year, including the Jazz Up Music Festival, the Summer Sidewalk Sale, and the Festival of the Arts, all of which contribute to the village’s lively community spirit.
Cultural initiatives in Glen Ellyn also play a significant role in enriching the community. The village has recently hosted the “Olmec Trails: Culture and Legacy” project, bringing hand-painted Olmec head sculptures to Prairie Path Park as part of a larger county-wide exhibition.
This project, in collaboration with the Glen Ellyn Park District, showcases the village’s commitment to celebrating diverse cultural heritages.
Moreover, the McAninch Arts Center (MAC) at the College of DuPage offers a range of cultural programming, including the Lakeside Pavilion Free Outdoor Summer Series, which features music, theater, and dance performances that are free to the public.
These cultural events and initiatives not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also attract visitors, further strengthening the community’s dynamic cultural landscape.
Real Estate Market
The real estate market in Glen Ellyn, IL, has shown significant growth in 2024. Home prices have seen a notable increase, with the median sale price reaching $559,000, up 12.8% from the previous year.
This upward trend reflects a robust demand for properties in the area, which is also evident in the decreased average time homes spend on the market—now down to 40 days compared to 64 days last year.
This strong seller’s market suggests that properties are highly sought after and often sell quickly.
Moreover, the inventory of homes for sale in Glen Ellyn has expanded by 6.5% from April to May 2024, with a median list price of $461,500.
The sale-to-list price ratio is approximately 98.02%, indicating that homes are selling very close to their listing prices. This competitive market is driven by a combination of high demand and limited supply, making it a favorable environment for sellers.
Buyers looking to enter the Glen Ellyn market should be prepared for competitive bidding and potentially higher-than-average home prices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Glen Ellyn, IL, stands out as a desirable place to live due to its strong community, excellent education system, and high quality of life.
While the cost of living is higher, the benefits of residing in such a vibrant and safe community often outweigh the expenses. For those seeking a blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities, Glen Ellyn offers an ideal home.
For those considering a move to Glen Ellyn, it’s advisable to hire a professional moving company in Glen Ellyn, IL to assist with the relocation.
These companies can efficiently transport your belongings and help you settle into your new home, easing the stress of moving.
Moreover, moving companies often provide valuable insights about the local area, helping you familiarize yourself with the city.
Glen Ellyn’s transportation infrastructure also supports a high percentage of residents working from home, with around 19.7% of the population engaged in remote work, highlighting the village’s adaptability to modern work trends.
This combination of excellent public transportation and work-from-home options makes Glen Ellyn a highly attractive place for new residents.
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