Welcome to University Park, Illinois: Where Affordable Living, Natural Beauty, and Suburban Opportunity Come Together

Tucked 40 miles south of downtown Chicago in northern Kankakee County, University Park is a peaceful, family-friendly village that offers the perfect blend of affordability, open space, and strategic growth. With a population of around 7,500, this master-planned community stands out for its tree-lined streets, low crime, and commitment to renewal — making it an ideal choice for families, first-time homebuyers, investors, and those seeking value with access to jobs, nature, and city life.

Named for its proximity to Governors State University, University Park blends academic energy with suburban serenity — where education, opportunity, and community pride go hand in hand.

🌳 A Legacy of Nature & Visionary Planning

Founded in the 1960s as a planned residential community adjacent to Governors State University, University Park was designed with greenbelts, winding roads, and abundant open space. Today, the village maintains over 800 acres of parks, forest preserves, and waterways, creating a lush, leafy backdrop for everyday life.

Residents enjoy:

  • The Old Plank Road Trail — perfect for biking, jogging, or walking to Richton Park, Matteson, and beyond

  • Proximity to Kankakee River State Park (20 minutes away) — ideal for hiking, fishing, boating, and camping

  • Over 20 neighborhood parks with playgrounds, sports fields, splash pads, and fitness zones

  • Quiet cul-de-sacs and mature tree canopy

It’s outdoor living at its finest — where you can kayak on the weekend and be downtown by noon.

🏡 Affordable Homes with Opportunity

One of University Park’s biggest advantages? Extreme value near Chicagoland. Compared to North Side neighborhoods or nearby suburbs, University Park offers some of the most affordable single-family homes in the region, featuring:

  • Ranch-style houses, split-levels, and two-flats on spacious lots

  • Many properties with driveways, garages, and room for renovation or expansion — rare in much of the city

  • Spacious yards and low-density neighborhoods

With lower property taxes than most Cook County communities, it’s an ideal choice for:
✅ First-time buyers
✅ Growing families
✅ Investors focused on long-term appreciation

This is a neighborhood where homeownership is within reach — and pride in property runs deep.

🎓 Life at the Edge of Learning

The presence of Governors State University (GSU) adds intellectual energy and cultural richness to daily life:

  • Public lectures, art exhibits, theater performances, and music events open to the community

  • Educational opportunities for students of all ages, including adult learners and career training

  • Campus greenspace and walking trails accessible to residents

GSU isn’t just a school — it’s a civic anchor that enriches the entire village.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Top Schools & Family Life

University Park is served by strong school districts committed to student success:

  • University Park School District 119 (elementary)

  • High school students attend Bloom Township High School District 206 — known for academics, athletics, and college readiness

The University Park Park District runs year-round programming:

  • Youth sports leagues, swim lessons, summer camps

  • Fitness centers, indoor pools, and senior wellness classes

  • Signature gatherings like Concerts in the Park, Fall Fest, and Holiday Tree Lighting

It’s a community built for families who want safety, stability, and connection.

🚗 Connected Without the Chaos

Despite its rural feel, University Park is surprisingly accessible:

  • Served by Pace Bus route #860 South Peotone (with connections to regional transit)

  • Easy access to I-57 and IL-50 (Richmond Road) for drivers

  • Just 50 minutes from downtown Chicago and 30 minutes from Midway Airport

Whether you're commuting to work, school, or weekend adventures, getting around is fast and efficient.

💼 Economic Strength & Strategic Location

University Park sits near major employment hubs:

  • Close to logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and education jobs

  • Proximity to Peotone (future site of the proposed Chicago casino and industrial development)

  • Business-friendly environment supporting local entrepreneurs and remote workers

Ongoing redevelopment and infrastructure investment are positioning University Park as a rising star in the far south suburbs.

❤️ A Diverse, Inclusive Community

University Park is proudly culturally diverse, with growing African American, Latino, Eastern European, Asian, and immigrant families contributing to its inclusive atmosphere. This diversity is celebrated through multicultural festivals, inclusive park programming, and civic engagement.

Block clubs, faith-based groups, and civic associations help maintain safety, beautification, and connection — reinforcing a deep sense of belonging and shared purpose.

 

Neigborhood Expert