Homewood is a village located in Cook County, Illinois, and serves as a suburb of the larger city of Chicago. With a population of 19,323, the village is situated just a few miles south of Chicago proper. It is bordered by several other towns including Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, and Hazel Crest. The village covers a total area of 5.26 square miles, of which 99.11% is land. Homewood lies on the Calumet Shoreline, an ancient sand ridge along Ridge Road. The village is 22 miles due south of The Loop/downtown Chicago, making it a convenient location for those who work in the city but prefer suburban living.
Housing and Economy
The median home price in Homewood is $208,000, and residents pay an average property tax of $4,555, with a county tax rate of 2.19%. The village has two main commercial corridors. Its historic downtown is centered at the intersections of Dixie Highway and Ridge Road, featuring small businesses like coffee shops, restaurants, and bookstores. Another commercial area is along Halsted Street, home to several large national chain retailers. The zip codes for Homewood are 60422 and 60430.
Parks and Recreation
Homewood boasts an extensive park system, known as the “H-F Park District,” which spans over 365 acres and includes 32 parks and recreational spaces. Some unique parks in the area include Lions Club Park and Pool, H-F Ice Arena, and Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center. The village also has the Izaak Walton Preserve, a 193-acre open space filled with woodland, lakes, and diverse wildlife.
Education
Children in Homewood primarily attend schools under the jurisdiction of Homewood public school district 153. The district has three schools: Winston Churchill Elementary, Willow Elementary, and James Hart Junior High School. Most students then go on to attend Homewood-Flossmoor High School, which has won the U.S. Department of Education’s Blue Ribbon Award for excellence three times.
Notable Residents and Community Life
Homewood has been home to several notable residents, including Sarah Bloom Raskin, the 13th United States Deputy Secretary of the Treasury, and Juice Wrld, a popular rapper. The village also has its local newspaper, the HF Chronicle, and a high school radio station, WHFH (88.5FM).
Transportation
Homewood is well-connected by rail, served by both Amtrak and Metra, providing convenient access to downtown Chicago and other parts of Illinois. It is also the American headquarters for Canadian National Railways, which includes a large freight classification yard and major shop facilities.
Conclusion
Homewood, Illinois, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. With its close proximity to Chicago, extensive park system, and strong educational institutions, it’s a place that caters to families and individuals alike. The village’s rich history and community spirit make it a desirable location for those looking to settle in the Chicago metropolitan area.
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