Hazel Crest, IL: Affordable Living Set for Growth

Hazel Crest, IL: Affordable Living Set for Growth

Things to Do in Hazel Crest, Illinois

Hazel Crest offers a blend of suburban charm and urban accessibility, appealing to families, professionals, and investors:

  • Hazel Crest Village Center: Enjoy local shops, dining, and community events like the Hazel Crest Family Fun Fest, fostering a strong community spirit.

  • Wind Creek Chicago Southland Casino: A short drive to East Hazel Crest, this 2024-opened casino offers 1,400 slot machines, dining, and entertainment, boosting regional appeal.

  • Sand Ridge Nature Center: Nearby in South Holland, explore hiking trails, wildlife exhibits, and family-friendly nature programs.

  • Chicago Access: With quick expressway access via I-294 and I-80, residents can reach Chicago’s Loop in about 30 minutes for world-class dining, museums, and entertainment.

Revitalization efforts, including commercial redevelopment along Kedzie Avenue, are attracting new businesses like retail and dining options, enhancing Hazel Crest’s appeal as a place to live or invest.

Schools in Hazel Crest, Illinois

Hazel Crest is served by Prairie-Hills Elementary School District 144 and Thornton Township High School District 205, offering quality educational options for families. Notable schools include:

  • Mae Jemison School: Provides a nurturing environment with strong programs for young learners.

  • Prairie-Hills Junior High School: Known for its extracurricular activities and student development programs in Hazel Crest.

  • Hillcrest High School: Offers academics, vocational training, and athletics in nearby Country Club Hills.

Nearby Prairie State College in Chicago Heights provides higher education and workforce training. I, Daniel Ellington, can help you find homes near top schools tailored to your family’s needs.

Parks and Recreation

Hazel Crest’s parks and nearby recreational areas enhance its appeal for active lifestyles and community connection:

  • Tower Park: Located in Hazel Crest, features playgrounds, basketball courts, and picnic areas, ideal for family outings and community events.

  • Cherry Creek Park: Offers green spaces and walking paths for relaxation and recreation in Hazel Crest.

  • William Powers State Recreation Area: A short drive away near Wolf Lake, provides fishing, boating, and trails.

Properties near these parks are increasingly desirable as revitalization efforts improve community amenities. I can guide you to homes in prime locations to maximize lifestyle and value.

Median Home Price in Hazel Crest

Hazel Crest’s real estate market is affordable and dynamic, with revitalization driving interest. As of April 2025, the median home price is $180,000, up 2.9% from last year, with a median price per square foot of $124. Homes spend about 44 days on the market, reflecting a somewhat competitive market (Redfin score 46/100) with 103 homes for sale, up 14.9% from January 2025. Over the past five years, Hazel Crest has seen a cumulative appreciation rate of approximately 80% (16% annually), aligning with Cook County’s suburban trends.

The commercial redevelopment along Kedzie Avenue, supported by local economic initiatives, is expected to boost property values, particularly in neighborhoods like Hazel Crest Proper and Potomac Highlands. Buyers have options across single-family homes, townhomes, and condos, while sellers benefit from steady demand. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling for top value, I, Daniel Ellington, will leverage my expertise to secure the best deal.

Typical Property Taxes in Hazel Crest

Property taxes in Hazel Crest are a key consideration for homeowners and investors. In Cook County, the median annual property tax bill is around $4,500, with rates typically ranging from 1.8-2.5% of assessed value (calculated at 33.33% of market value). For a $180,000 home, expect an annual tax bill of approximately $3,240-$4,500, though homestead or senior exemptions can reduce this. Hazel Crest’s affordability compared to Cook County’s median home price of $340,000, combined with quick expressway access via I-294 and I-80 and revitalization momentum, makes it a budget-friendly option with growth potential.

I, Daniel Ellington, can connect you with tools like Cook County’s Property Tax Calculator and specialists to explore tax-saving strategies, ensuring you maximize your investment.

Why Invest in Hazel Crest Real Estate?

Hazel Crest’s real estate market offers compelling opportunities, fueled by its revitalization efforts:

  • Strong Appreciation: An 80% appreciation rate over five years positions Hazel Crest as a high-value suburb in Cook County.

  • Affordable Entry Point: With a median home value of $180,000, Hazel Crest is significantly below Cook County’s $340,000, appealing to first-time buyers and investors.

  • Rental Demand: With 25% of homes rented and proximity to Chicago, Hazel Crest attracts tenants, with median rents around $1,200-$1,600 monthly, offering solid cash flow.

  • Prime Location: Just 24 miles from Chicago, quick expressway access via I-294 and I-80 enhances commuter appeal, supported by commercial redevelopment.

  • Revitalization Momentum: Efforts to redevelop Kedzie Avenue’s commercial corridor, with new retail and dining options, signal economic growth, making areas like Hazel Crest Proper prime for investment.

From rehabbed bungalows to townhomes, I, Daniel Ellington, can help you identify high-return properties tailored to your investment goals, capitalizing on Hazel Crest’s upward trajectory.

Why Choose Daniel Ellington as Your Hazel Crest Real Estate Expert?

Navigating Hazel Crest’s affordable market, with its revitalization potential, requires local expertise and a strategic approach. As your trusted real estate professional, I offer:

  • Market Mastery: Deep knowledge of Hazel Crest’s neighborhoods, from Hazel Crest Proper to Potomac Highlands, and their unique trends.

  • Personalized Guidance: Tailored strategies for first-time buyers, families, or investors to meet your specific objectives.

  • Negotiation Expertise: Proven skills to secure top value for sellers and competitive deals for buyers in a dynamic market.

  • Comprehensive Support: Access to lenders, inspectors, and tax specialists to streamline your transaction and maximize savings.

Ready to buy, sell, or invest in Hazel Crest? Contact me, Daniel Ellington, at [insert contact info] to schedule a consultation and start your journey today!

Final Thoughts

Hazel Crest, Illinois, offers an affordable blend of suburban living, community charm, and investment potential, and I particularly like the quick expressway access via I-294 and I-80 for seamless commutes. Poised for growth with commercial redevelopment along Kedzie Avenue and community-focused initiatives, Hazel Crest is set for a bright future. Whether you’re seeking a starter home, a rental property, or a quick sale, I, Daniel Ellington, am here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out today to unlock the opportunities in Hazel Crest’s thriving real estate market!

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