$146,791Average Value$300Average Price per Sq Ft5Homes For Sale
The East Side holds firm to its industrial roots
East Side-Chicago Heights is a populous southside suburb just 32 miles from Downtown Chicago. The neighborhood was historically settled by large-scale manufacturers seeking to create an outer-ring industrial suburb. By the early 20th century, workers and their families populated the East Side. Many residents still work in the manufacturing industry today. “The area offers nice homes at decent prices,” says Donna Dalke, a real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. “A number of buyers flip their houses as a way to reinvest in the community.” These modest, single-family homes accompany local eateries, markets and forest preserves surrounding the industrial sector. After more than a century of development, East Side-Chicago Heights continues to evolve through city-wide planning and resources.
American Foursquare and bungalows line streets in East Side-Cook County in Chicago Heights.
An aerial view shows the typical homes nestled in East Side-Cook County.
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Vintage homes & new builds showcase the East Side’s history
Homes on the East Side are typically more affordable than those in surrounding Chicago Heights neighborhoods. Those constructed in the early 20th century fall between $75,000 and $230,000, well below average for the Chicago Metropolitan Area. Residential streets occasionally boast 21st-century builds, replacing the lots’ previous historic homes. Homebuyers looking to invest will find a handful of properties requiring additional care before moving in. These properties range in price from $11,000 to $70,000. Overall, architectural styles vary between Cape Cods, classic Chicago Bungalows and brick two-flats catering to the neighborhood’s renters. Out front, sidewalks outline tight, square lawns with small gardens and decorations. A mix of paved and gravel driveways lead to detached garages, but street parking is also common.
Homebuyers will note that among East Side’s residential pockets are remnants of the neighborhood’s industrial past. Street corners display vacant historic buildings that once housed local businesses. As of 2024, the City of Chicago Heights is actively implementing a comprehensive plan to repurpose or demolish these buildings by 2030.
East Side-Cook County has a variety of home styles to suit your needs.
The homes of East Side-Cook County tend to be modest on quiet streets.
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A mile-long commute to the industrial sector
The Union Pacific Railroad and Canadian National Railway each pass through East Side-Chicago Heights. Prominent employers like Ford Motor Company, Behr Paints and Chicago Steel & Iron line the tracks. Various manufacturers surround them, forming a hub of industrial complexes just east of State Street. Employees on the East Side can expect a mile or so commute, though traffic tends to congest along Route 30. Most residents are car-dependent, but Pace Suburban bus stops still line Route 30 and Halsted Street. The nearest emergency room is Franciscan Hospital, 6 miles west on 203rd Street.
Chicago commuters make the 32-mile trip north on Interstate 94. The nearest Metra station, 211th Street, sits 3 miles from the East Side on Route 30. Riders can expect an hour-long ride north to Millenium Station in Downtown Chicago. Chicago Midway International Airport is the nearest commercial airport, 23 miles north. Gary/Chicago International Airport is equidistant, 23 miles east in Indiana.
Chicago Heights School District 170 provides resources for families
Students attend Chicago Heights School District 170. The district provide free breakfast every day of the week, and partners with No Kid Hungry to supply free meals throughout the summer. Additionally, the district’s Parent Academy provides learning strategies and curriculum resources for guardians to promote their involvement.
Families to the north attend Jefferson Elementary School, which earns a C on Niche. To the south, Lincoln Elementary earns a B. Both schools feed into Chicago Heights Middle, which also earns a C. Bloom High School is part of Bloom Township High School District 206. With a C-plus on Niche, Bloom High continues to provide free breakfast and lunches. Further, students can participate in career and technical education courses in preparation for graduation.
The Chicago Heights Comprehensive Plan
A handful of buildings throughout the East Side remain vacant following an economic downturn a few decades back. In 2014, the city established a comprehensive plan geared toward greater livability and economic growth. The plan encourages elected officials, local business owners, current homeowners and future investors to help improve conditions through community development.
Organizations like the South Cooke Intermediate Service Center and Harold Colbert Jones Memorial Community Center have made it their mission to provide resources to current residents. These include healthcare, public benefits, childcare, summer camps and tutoring.
Jewel-Osco partners with District 170 for free vaccinations
The Java Sip on State Street offers coffee and breakfast, a go-to for industry employees on their way to work. In the heart of Chicago Heights, Halsted Street provides service centers and dining options like Shark’s Fish & Chicken. From hearty sandwiches and fish dinners to-go, Sharks is one of the closest eateries to East Side residents. Up the road, D&D Foods is an Italian market and deli offering meats, cheeses and Italian subs for lunch. South on Chicago Road, Heights Fresh Market, a Mexican grocery store selling imported and domestic products—the Jewel-Osco nearby partners with Chicago Heights School District 170 to provide free vaccinations throughout the year. Save A Lot and Dollar Tree sit next door.
“Chicago Heights is also just a short distance from Homewood, a great place to find local shops and restaurants,” Dalke says. Those traveling to Homewood can take Halsted Street 5 miles north for Target, Best Buy, Menards and Home Depot.
Supermercado La Loma has fresh produce, meat & groceries in the East Side-Chicago Heights area.
Patrons of the Chicago Heights grocery store, La Loma, pick up fresh cuts of meat.
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Thorn Creek’s forest preserves & 23 miles of trails
Thorn Creek passes through East Side-Chicago Heights. Forest preserves like Halsted Woods and Joe Orr Woods surround the 21-mile tributary of the Little Calumet River. Both provide access to the Thorn Creek Trail System, which features over 23 miles of trails passing through wetlands and woodlands. Closer to home, King Park is walkable for residents along Route 30. The park provides basketball courts, open fields and a playground for nearby families. Chicago Heights Country Club’s west course is operated by the parks district, meaning the 9-hole greenway is open to the public with below-average fees.
A Chicago Heights resident enjoys the sunshine while walking her dog at McEldowney Park.
Play some basketball with friends at Wacker Park.
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From Music in the Park to Fiesta Chicago Heights
Each summer, Chicago Heights hosts a Music in the Park series. Held at various parks throughout the city, including King Park, the series celebrates holidays like Juneteenth with live performances and local vendors. Later in September, residents honor Mexican Independence Day with Fiesta Chicago Heights. The two-day festival features traditional Mexican food, dancing, live music and art. The annual parade begins on 10th Street and slowly makes its way north to Prairie State College. Additionally, locals can head to surrounding suburbs like Homewood for holiday and farmer’s markets.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tameka Lewis-Madkins,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Wacker Park
Playground
Jirtle Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Picnic Area
Chicago Heights Park District
Trails
Playground
Petarca Park
Picnic Area
Landeen Park
Playground
Thorn Creek Trail
Bike Trails
Trails
Joe Orr Woods
Transit
Airport
Chicago Midway International
43 min drive
Bus
Halsted St & 12th St
Bus
Halsted St & 15th St & Emerald Ave
Bus
Halsted St & 13th St
Bus
Lincoln HWY & Washington Ave
Bus
Halsted St & 7th Pl
Bus
Lincoln HWY & State St
Bus
Lincoln HWY & Shields Ave
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
East Side-Chicago Heights
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
3
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
East Side-Chicago Heights Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in East Side-Chicago Heights, Chicago Heights sell after 35 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in East Side-Chicago Heights, Chicago Heights over the last 12 months is $376,750, down 45% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fully remodeled 2 story frame house on a corner lot. Move-in ready. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms , 2 full baths and full basement. The open yard concept, and unique layout are just a couple of the features that make this property a must see. It is located near shopping and transportation.
Discover the potential of this charming investment property located in the heart of Chicago Heights. This 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home spans 924 square feet and offers a fantastic opportunity for investors or those looking to craft their dream home. The exterior boasts durable vinyl siding and a built garage, ensuring both style and functionality. Although the property requires some repairs, the
Great investment property, first home or retirement home in Chicago Heights. Freshly painted. Currently being rented (month to month) by long-term renter but new owner might be able to adjust for current rates. This area is experiencing an addition of a lot of new homes. This property may be eligible for a special community lending program.
Michele NixonBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago
Property Id: 945111This beautiful newly rehabbed 1 bedrooms apartment with a modern look is located in Chicago Heights with an open loft concept. This unit has hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, slam-proof cabinets, and oversized windows. With spacious bedrooms, a living room and additional smaller room, this is a great place to hang out and enjoy with friends and family.
This updated and spacious rental offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. The main level features a bright living room, formal dining room, and a fully rehabbed kitchen with quartz countertops, modern finishes, and a convenient mud room. Upstairs, you'll find two generously sized bedrooms and a full bathroom. The home also includes a clean basement, perfect for extra storage. Enjoy the large
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tameka Lewis-Madkins,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
4,181
Median Age
33
Population Density
2 ppl/acre
Population under 18
31.8%
Above the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
13.2%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$44,254
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$56,447
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
80.9%
College Graduates
11.6%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
2.4%
Below the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
60.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
37''
Average Winter Low Temperature
15°F
Average Summer High Temperature
84°F
Annual Snowfall
30''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
29/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
1/ 100
Minimal Transit
Transit Score®
23/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
