Welcome to Homewood, IL: Suburban Living with Urban Energy

About Homewood

Located just 25 miles south of downtown Chicago, Homewood, Illinois is a thriving village known for its tree-lined streets, award-winning schools, and vibrant downtown district. Homewood combines the best of small-town comfort and big-city accessibility, offering residents a well-rounded lifestyle in one of the most sought-after south suburbs.

With a population of just under 20,000, Homewood has built a reputation for community involvement, strong public services, and consistent investment in infrastructure, business, and culture. Recognized by CNN and Money Magazine as one of the “Best Places to Live,” Homewood stands out as a destination for families, professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Living in Homewood

Housing and Neighborhoods:
Homewood features a variety of housing styles, from well-maintained historic homes and mid-century ranches to modern condos and new developments. Neighborhoods are safe, walkable, and full of character — with easy access to parks, schools, and shopping.

The village’s zoning and planning efforts have maintained a balance of residential charm and modern convenience, making Homewood a place where people put down roots.

Cost of Living:
While slightly higher than some surrounding communities, the cost of living in Homewood reflects the quality of schools, services, and amenities. Homeownership remains accessible, especially when compared to northern and western suburbs. The value is clear — Homewood delivers on livability.

Education:
Homewood is served by Homewood School District 153 and Homewood-Flossmoor High School District 233, both of which are highly rated. Homewood-Flossmoor High School is nationally recognized for its academic excellence, sports programs, and extracurricular offerings.

Nearby colleges such as Prairie State College, Governors State University, and South Suburban College provide convenient options for higher education and workforce training.

Business and Economy

Homewood’s economy is robust and diverse, supported by local government initiatives to attract and retain businesses. The village features a bustling downtown business district, a mix of small businesses, restaurants, service providers, and national retailers. The pedestrian-friendly downtown area is a central draw for both residents and visitors.

Homewood’s business development is supported by tax incentives, TIF districts, and a proactive chamber of commerce. Small business owners benefit from a strong local customer base, accessible commercial space, and a village administration committed to economic growth.

The village also benefits from proximity to major employment hubs in Chicago, Tinley Park, and Matteson, giving residents both local job options and easy access to regional opportunities.

Things to Do in Homewood

Parks and Recreation:
The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District manages dozens of parks and recreational facilities, making outdoor activity part of everyday life. Top spots include:

Irwin Park: A local favorite for concerts, picnics, and community events.
Patriots Park: Great for family playtime and sports.
H-F Ice Arena: A regional draw for skating lessons, hockey leagues, and public skate sessions.

Arts and Culture:
Homewood places a strong emphasis on the arts. Murals, sculptures, and public art installations can be found throughout the village. Events like Downtown Art & Garden Street Fair, Rail Fest, and Homewood’s Fall Fest draw thousands each year.

The Homewood Science Center also provides a unique blend of STEM education and public programming for all ages.

Dining and Shopping:
Homewood’s downtown is home to a mix of independent boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants offering everything from classic American fare to global cuisine. Highlights include:

Redbird Café: A popular local eatery with healthy, creative options.
La Voute Bistro + Bar: Upscale dining in a renovated historic bank.
Grady’s Snack N’ Dine: A retro-style diner and family favorite.

Nearby shopping centers and big-box retailers in neighboring areas offer even more convenience without compromising the local vibe.

Community and Lifestyle

Events and Festivals:
Homewood is known for its community events, which are professionally organized and well-attended:

Homewood Artisan Street Fair: A curated market featuring regional artists and makers.
4th of July Parade and Festival: A beloved local tradition with fireworks, live music, and family fun.
Holiday Lights Festival: A downtown winter celebration complete with carriage rides, tree lighting, and hot cocoa.

Public Services and Safety:
Homewood is served by dedicated police, fire, and emergency services. The village invests in infrastructure, maintains its roads and public spaces well, and offers programs for seniors, veterans, and youth. Resident satisfaction with local services is consistently high.

Transportation and Accessibility

Homewood’s location and transportation options make it a commuter’s dream. Key access points include:

Metra Electric Line: The Homewood station provides direct service to downtown Chicago’s Millennium Station.
Interstates I-80 and I-294: Minutes away for easy regional access.
Pace Bus Service: Reliable connections to nearby suburbs and Metra stops.

Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to O’Hare or Midway airports, or taking a weekend trip downtown, Homewood offers stress-free access to everything the region has to offer.

Why Choose Homewood?

Homewood, IL combines the feel of a close-knit community with the energy of a progressive, well-managed suburb. It’s a place where schools are top-tier, businesses are supported, and residents are engaged. Homewood consistently ranks among the best places to live in Illinois — and for good reason.

Whether you’re buying a home, growing a business, or just looking for a vibrant place to live, Homewood delivers on quality, convenience, and community.