Woodridge is a village located primarily in DuPage County, Illinois, with small portions extending into Will and Cook counties. It serves as a southwestern suburb of Chicago. With a population of 33,826, Woodridge is a relatively young community, with the majority of its homes, businesses, and churches constructed after the 1950s. The village was incorporated on August 24, 1959, and was founded by housing developer Albert Kaufman.
History
Woodridge has a rich history that dates back to its incorporation in 1959 with less than 500 residents. It was named for its location in a wooded area above a steep hillside, locally known as “The Ridge,” which overlooks the DuPage River’s East Branch and the Des Plaines Valley. The village has grown significantly over the years and was ranked No. 61 on Money magazine’s “100 Best Places to Live” in July 2007.
Geography and Distance to Chicago
The village is situated at coordinates 41.7452° N and 88.0486° W and has a total area of 9.79 square miles. Woodridge is approximately 25 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, making it a convenient location for those who work in the city but prefer a suburban lifestyle.
Demographics
Woodridge has a diverse population, with a racial makeup of 60.85% White, 10.04% African American, 13.30% Asian, and 14.80% Hispanic or Latino. The median age is 37.5 years, and the population density is 3,488.71 inhabitants per square mile.
Housing and Taxes
The median home price in Woodridge is $285,000, and the average property tax is $6,527. The average county tax rate is 2.29%, which is something to consider for potential homeowners. The primary ZIP code for the area is 60517.
Economy and Commerce
Woodridge is home to the Home Run Inn pizzeria chain and was the home of Pabst Brewing Company from 2006 to 2011. The village also has a large industrial area in the far south section, served by an industrial spur for the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad.
Education
Woodridge is served by School District 68, which maintains six elementary schools and one junior high school. Most Woodridge secondary school students attend Downers Grove North or South High Schools in the recently renamed Community High School District 99.
Transportation
Two interstates run through Woodridge: the Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355) and the Stevenson Expressway (I-55), providing easy access to various parts of Chicago and beyond. Bus service is provided by Pace, under the coordination of the Regional Transportation Authority.
Recreation
The Woodridge Park District maintains a well-distributed group of local parks and open spaces, offering facilities for picnicking as well as sports like baseball, basketball, tennis, soccer, and cricket. The village is also home to two multi-screen movie theaters and is located near the renowned Morton Arboretum.
Conclusion
Woodridge 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, Woodridge has something for everyone.
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