West Chicago is a city located in DuPage County, Illinois, and is a western suburb of Chicago. With a population of 25,166, West Chicago offers a blend of suburban living and historical richness. The city was initially established around the first junction of railroad lines in Illinois and was formerly named Junction and later Turner, after its founder, John B. Turner.
History
West Chicago has a storied history that dates back to the 1830s when Erastus Gary homesteaded 760 acres on the banks of the DuPage River. The city was initially established around the first junction of railroad lines in Illinois. It was formerly named Junction and later Turner, after its founder, John B. Turner, president of the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad in 1855. The city has seen various industries set up shop, including the Borden’s milk condensing plant, the Turner Cabinet Company, and the Turner Brick Company.
Geography and Distance to Chicago
Situated at coordinates 41.8848° N, 88.2039° W, West Chicago has a total area of 15.72 square miles, of which 15.38 square miles is land and 0.34 square miles is water. The city is approximately 30 miles away from downtown Chicago, making it a convenient location for those who work in the city but prefer a suburban lifestyle.
Demographics
The city has a diverse population, with a racial makeup of 67.6% White, 2.5% Black, 51.1% Hispanic, and 5.9% Asian. The median age is 34.0 years, and the population density is 1,629.49 inhabitants per square mile.
Housing and Taxes
The median home price in West Chicago is $441,300, and the average property tax is $10,106. The average county tax rate is 2.29%, which is something to consider for potential homeowners. The primary zip codes for the area are 60185 and 60186.
Economy
The city’s economy is diverse, and it continues to attract quality business and residential development.
Education
The city of West Chicago has two high schools—one public school, West Chicago Community High School, and one private, Wheaton Academy. There are seven public elementary schools and two middle schools within the city.
Transportation
West Chicago is served by the Union Pacific West Metra service via West Chicago station. The DuPage Airport is also located in the city, and another Metra station is being planned on the STAR Line on North Avenue.
Points of Interest
West Chicago is home to the Truitt-Hoff Nature Preserve, part of DuPage County’s West Chicago Prairie Forest Preserve, one of the largest and best-preserved prairies in the Midwest. The city is also home to Kline Creek Farm, an 1890s living history farm, as well as the West Chicago City Museum.
Conclusion
West Chicago, 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, West Chicago has something for everyone.
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