With tree-lined streets, a welcoming small-town feel, and easy access to city amenities, Palos Hills has quietly earned a spot among Illinois’ top 10 places to live, according to a recent ranking by WorldAtlas.com.
For Mayor Jerry Bennett, the recognition is a reflection of a community decades in the making.
“The City of Palos Hills is very proud and honored to have been named one of the top 10 cities to live in Illinois,” Bennett said. “For the city to receive this recognition, we believe all of our residents will feel gratified they chose the right hometown to raise a family, retire, or start a business.”
A southwest suburb of Chicago, Palos Hills is known for its blend of rural tranquility and suburban convenience, the website said.
Adjacent to more than 20,000 acres of Cook County Forest Preserve land, the city offers an uncommon closeness to nature, including walking trails, open land, and new parks thread through the community like green lifelines. The city’s own nine-hole municipal golf course is another point of local pride, offering affordable recreation surrounded by natural beauty.
Mayor Bennett, who has served the community for over four decades, says that balance of “country and urban” is at the heart of what makes Palos Hills so special.
“Palos Hills has become a safe and attractive, yet affordable, community,” he said. “Our city tax rate is among the lowest in Cook County, and our crime rate is one of the lowest in Illinois.”
The numbers back him up. Palos Hills boasts a cost of living that’s below the national average — housing expenses are about 6% lower, and utilities 12% lower — making it an ideal place for both young families and retirees. With home values still below the state average and an expanding population, the city is drawing new residents who want more for their money without sacrificing safety or quality of life.
Education is another key reason families are planting roots in Palos Hills.
The city is served by elementary school districts 117 and 118, and Amos Alonzo Stagg High School. All are ranked in the top 10 percentile in Illinois. Palos Hills is also home to Moraine Valley Community College, widely regarded as one of the top community colleges in the state.
“The city continues to grow in population with many young families choosing to locate in our community because of our outstanding educational opportunities,” Bennett said.
In addition to its schools and parks, the city’s cultural offerings and diverse dining scene help round out the picture. From savory Middle Eastern dishes to comforting Polish fare, Palos Hills’ restaurants are a reflection of the community’s diversity and vibrancy.
“I moved to Palos Hills in 1972,” Bennett said. “I’ve been honored and proud to have been a part of its growth over the last 44 years, and to see it now recognized as one of the top 10 cities in Illinois to live.”
For those who already call it home, the recognition is simply affirmation of what they’ve known all along.
“We chose to live in Palos Hills and raise our children here because of everything the city has to offer,” resident Steve Szymczak, said.
I have lived here over 40 years raising my family and have seen many changes for the good, but feel the city lacks in character. Our main street should reflect that lack of character with more small businesses welcoming residents as well as visitors.