Vernon Hills is a suburban village located in Lake County, Illinois, and serves as a retail hub for its surrounding areas like Libertyville, Lake Forest, and Mundelein. With a population of 26,786, Vernon Hills offers a mix of suburban tranquility and urban amenities. The village was founded in 1958 and has seen steady growth, particularly since the 1980s and 1990s through the annexation of surrounding areas.
History
The land that would become Vernon Hills began as a 200-acre farm in 1857. It remained relatively static until the 1960s when it was purchased for residential development and a golf course. The village officially incorporated on June 16, 1958, with 123 residents. Over the years, Vernon Hills has grown geographically and demographically, with significant developments like the Corporate Woods business park and the Hawthorn Center.
Geography and Distance to Chicago
Situated at coordinates 42.2211° N, -87.9533° W, Vernon Hills has a total area of 7.917 square miles, of which 97.39% is land. The village is approximately 37 miles away from downtown Chicago, providing a convenient location for those who work in the city but prefer a suburban lifestyle.
Demographics
The village has a diverse population, with a racial makeup of 56.01% White, 2.36% African American, and 25.81% Asian. The median age is 34 years, and the population density is 2,708.3 inhabitants per square mile.
Housing and Taxes
The median home price in Vernon Hills is $380,000, and the average property tax is $11,210. The average county tax rate is 2.95%, which is something to consider for potential homeowners. The primary zip code for the area is 60061.
Economy and Commerce
Vernon Hills is home to several major employers and businesses, including CDW, Zebra Technologies, and American Hotel Register Company. Recently, the village developed a $200 million shopping center known as Mellody Farm, featuring a variety of restaurant and retail businesses.
Education
The village is served by the Hawthorn School District, which includes six grade schools and two middle schools. High school students attend either Vernon Hills High School or Libertyville High School. The village also has its first full-service library, the Aspen Drive Library, offering a wide range of books, movies, and music.
Parks and Recreation
Vernon Hills boasts the 184-acre Vernon Hills Athletic Complex, which was acquired from land that had belonged to the U.S. Army and the U.S. Navy at different times. The complex offers various recreational opportunities for residents.
Transportation
Vernon Hills has a station on Metra’s North Central Service, providing daily rail service between Antioch, Illinois, and Chicago. The village is also serviced by Pace buses, offering additional public transportation options.
Conclusion
Vernon Hills, Illinois, offers a balanced lifestyle with its proximity to Chicago, diverse population, and various amenities. Whether you’re looking for good schools, a range of housing options, or a community with a rich history and promising future, Vernon Hills has something for everyone.
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