Crest Hill, IL: Smart Buys, Strong Community, Easy Commutes

Crest Hill is a fast-growing, budget-friendly suburb just northwest of Joliet in Will County, Illinois. Known for its accessible location, diverse neighborhoods, and reliable real estate values, Crest Hill is popular in 2025 with families, first-time buyers, professionals, and investors looking for affordability, convenience, and steady long-term value.

Location & Transportation

• 40 miles southwest of downtown Chicago
• Fast access to I-55, I-80, and Route 30 for easy commuting
• Close to Metra rail in Joliet for trips to Chicago
• PACE buses serve local routes
• Plainfield Road and Weber Road are main corridors for shopping and dining

Community & Lifestyle

Schools:

• Chaney-Monge School District 88 (elementary/middle)
• Lockport Township High School District 205 (high school)
• Private and parochial school options in surrounding areas

Parks & Recreation:

• Multiple city parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and walking/biking trails
• Close to forest preserves, Des Plaines River, lakes, and prairie paths for year-round outdoor activity
• City holds local events, youth programs, and sports leagues

Shopping & Dining:

• Big-box stores, shopping plazas, grocery options, and pharmacies along Weber and Plainfield Roads
• Mix of local favorites (pizza, Mexican, diners, bakeries) and well-known chains
• Easy drive to major shopping and entertainment centers in Joliet or Plainfield

Healthcare:

• Local urgent care, dentists, and primary doctors in the area
• Minutes to Silver Cross Hospital and St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet

Demographics & Economy

• Population: Around 19,900 (2025 est.)
• Median household income: $71,000–$83,000
• Middle-income community with high homeownership
• Diverse, friendly mix of longtime residents, young families, and newcomers
• Local jobs in logistics, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and education

Real Estate Market Overview (2025)

• Median list price: $260,000–$275,000 (June–July 2025)
• Median sold price: $255,000–$280,000 (up 5–6% year-over-year)
• Price per sq ft: $178–$192 (up ~10% from last year)
• Days on market: 28–52 days (move-in-ready homes sell very quickly)
• Homes for sale: ~60–70 (inventory is up but homes still sell fast)
• Home types: Ranch, split-level, two-story, and townhomes/condos (townhomes/condos start near $200,000)
• Seller’s market: Most move-in-ready or recently updated homes get multiple offers

Investment & Long-Term Value

• 5–6% annual price appreciation for several years
• Affordable entry point for first-time buyers and buy-and-hold investors
• Strong and consistent rental demand (close to Joliet Junior College, Lewis University, business parks)
• Area is seeing retail and commercial growth, providing more shopping and job opportunities
• Property taxes are lower than in Cook County, with less price volatility than hot city markets

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Crest Hill compare to Joliet or Plainfield?

• Lower home prices and property taxes, quieter and more laid-back feel, but still just minutes from all the shopping, jobs, and entertainment of downtown Joliet or growing Plainfield.

Is Crest Hill good for real estate investors?

• Yes! Prices are accessible, values are rising, the rental market is steady, and it’s easier to find cash-flowing single-family or townhome investment properties than in pricier neighboring cities.

What is living in Crest Hill like?

• Convenient, quiet, and neighborly. Residents appreciate friendly blocks, plenty of parks, and proximity to groceries, retail, and restaurants. The area offers a true suburban feel with easy city access.

How Daniel Ellington Can Help

For Buyers: Local market knowledge, up-to-date listings, and strong negotiation to help you secure the best value.

For Sellers: Accurate pricing, full marketing exposure, and negotiation guidance to sell your home fast and for top dollar.

For Investors: Rental market insight, help identifying the best value homes, and strategies to boost long-term returns in Crest Hill’s stable market.

Ready to buy, sell, or invest in Crest Hill? Contact Daniel Ellington for local expertise and personalized real estate service in one of Will County’s best up-and-coming suburban communities.