Last Updated on December 9, 2025 by Kari-Ann Ryan
Cicero is one of the oldest suburbs bordering the City of Chicago and has long been known for its mix of historic character, cultural tradition, and everyday convenience. It sits just west of Chicago’s city limits, which places it in a unique category. It has the suburban boundaries and government structure of a town, yet carries an unmistakable urban feel shaped by busy commercial corridors, dense residential blocks, and long-established neighborhoods.
People considering Cicero usually ask the same core questions. Is it affordable. What is the housing really like. How are the schools. Is commuting convenient. What about safety. Are there things to do. How does the cost of living compare. And how does the day-to-day experience stack up against nearby suburbs like Oak Park, Berwyn, and Forest Park.
This guide breaks down each of these topics with practical detail, local context, and an honest look at what living in Cicero is truly like.
Housing and Cost of Living in Cicero
Housing is one of the biggest reasons people consider Cicero. The median value of an owner-occupied home is around $259,000, according to recent home-value analyses. Other indexes that track typical property prices place the average home cost closer to $218,000, which is more than 30% below the national average. This places Cicero among the more affordable communities in the Chicago metro area.
Rent follows the same trend. The average rent for all apartment types combined is roughly $1,500 per month based on Zillow. A typical 1-bedroom averages around $1,250, and a 2-bedroom often falls just below $1,500. This is noticeably lower than many city neighborhoods and nearby western suburbs.
Cost-of-living calculators consistently show that housing in Cicero is about 20%–25% below the national average. Utilities tend to sit slightly below the national baseline, while transportation costs—to and from work, school, or errands—can sit slightly above average due to heavy traffic routes and frequent driving.
The main tradeoff with affordability is age. Many homes were built several decades ago. While some have been updated, others may require improvements to mechanical systems, insulation, or interior finishes. Anyone planning to buy in Cicero should budget for ongoing maintenance, especially in older two-flats and multi-unit buildings.
Income Levels and Local Economics
The median household income in Cicero is around $68,500, according to the most recent census-based estimates. Average household income is slightly above $80,000, which places Cicero somewhat below the Chicago metro median but within a workable range when combined with the lower cost of housing.
Families often choose Cicero because the housing market aligns better with their income. When you can secure more square footage or an additional bedroom without taking on a disproportionately high mortgage, financial stability is easier to maintain.
Local spending tends to be manageable thanks to a mix of national chains and long-standing family-owned businesses, many of which offer competitive pricing. Groceries, dining, and everyday services remain accessible to most budgets.
Location, Transportation, and Commuting
Cicero’s location is one of its strongest advantages. The town sits immediately west of Chicago, and the commute into the city is direct. Downtown Chicago is roughly 7 miles away, making it accessible by car or train.
Driving commuters benefit from proximity to the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) and Interstate 55. Residents who prefer public transportation have access to the Metra BNSF Railway, which connects Cicero directly to Union Station. Multiple CTA and Pace bus routes run through the community, offering options for people who don’t drive.
The downside is traffic. Major roads like Cicero Avenue, Cermak Road, Roosevelt Road, and 26th Street serve as commercial corridors, and they can experience significant congestion during rush hours and weekends. Many residents rely on side streets to avoid backups.
Community Culture and Daily Life
Cicero has one of the most distinct cultural identities among Chicago’s inner-ring suburbs. Recent demographic estimates indicate that close to 90% of residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, which shapes the food scene, local businesses, events, and everyday atmosphere.
You find bakeries, taquerias, restaurants, grocery markets, and family-run shops throughout the town. Cultural festivals draw large crowds, and holiday celebrations are vibrant and community-focused. Many families have lived in Cicero for 20–30 years or have multi-generational ties to the area, which contributes to a strong sense of community continuity.
Daily errands are convenient for most residents. Many blocks are walkable, with grocery stores, pharmacies, parks, and neighborhood shops within a short distance. This everyday accessibility is part of the town’s appeal.
Parks, Recreation, and Green Space
Cicero has parks and playgrounds distributed across the community, but it does not offer the same amount of large green space as suburbs farther west or north. For example, someone seeking extensive forest preserves or long running paths may need to travel to nearby Berwyn, Riverside, or North Riverside.
For basic recreation, sports, and family outings, Cicero’s parks serve the community well. Larger recreational outings typically involve a short drive.
Schools and Education
The public school system in Cicero serves a diverse population. Performance varies across schools. Some perform steadily with supportive staff and strong bilingual programs, while others face challenges with class size, resources, or proficiency scores.
According to statewide educational data, the percentage of Cicero residents with a high school diploma sits below the Illinois average, and the percentage of adults holding a bachelor’s degree is also lower than the statewide figure. These numbers do not reflect every block or every family, but they do shape the overall educational landscape.
Families prioritize school-by-school research. Many also look into private or parochial schools in Cicero or in nearby suburbs. Some choose magnet or charter options depending on their location and educational goals.
Safety and Neighborhood Variation
Cicero is a dense community, and like many close-in suburbs bordering Chicago, the character of each block can vary. Some areas are quieter with long-term homeowners, while others have frequent foot traffic, multi-unit buildings, and more street activity.
Recent crime data shows that Cicero’s total crime rate is around 1,581 crimes per 100,000 residents annually. This places Cicero near or slightly below national averages depending on the category and year. Interpretation depends heavily on personal expectations and the specific area of town.
The best approach for evaluating safety is walking or driving the area at different times of day, talking with local residents, and observing activity levels. This provides a more accurate sense of the block’s personality than raw data alone.
Is Cicero Right for You?
| If You Want… | Cicero Is a Good Fit Because… | But Consider… |
|---|---|---|
| More affordable housing | Prices are significantly below the metro average | Some properties may require upgrades or repairs |
| Easy access to Chicago | Short commute by car or train to downtown | Traffic is heavy on major roads during peak hours |
| Strong cultural identity | Community events, family-owned shops, diverse food options | This is not a quiet, slow-paced suburb |
| Walkability | Many daily errands can be done within a few blocks | Side streets are better for walking than main corridors |
| A lively atmosphere | Dense community with active streets and local businesses | Some blocks feel crowded and busy at most hours |
| A place to build family roots | Multi-generational households and long-time residents are common | School options require careful research by area |
Things to Do in and Around Cicero
Cicero provides access to a mix of local and regional amenities. For day-to-day needs, residents rely on independent restaurants, neighborhood shops, community events, and sports programs.
Major attractions nearby include:
- Brookfield Zoo, roughly 15 minutes away
- Restaurants and entertainment districts in Berwyn and Oak Park
- North Riverside Mall, about 10 minutes from many parts of Cicero
- Downtown Chicago, about 15–20 minutes by car depending on traffic
Overall Quality of Life
Cicero works well for people who want:
- More affordable housing
- Close proximity to Chicago
- A lively, culturally rich community
- Walkable neighborhoods with everyday convenience
It may be less ideal for someone who prioritizes:
- Highly ranked public schools
- Quiet, low-density neighborhoods
- Large green spaces directly within the town
- Minimal traffic or congestion
Planning a Move In or Out of Cicero, IL
If you’re preparing to move into Cicero or relocating to another suburb, you’ll want a moving company that understands the area’s streets, older building layouts, and typical move-day challenges.
Mid-West Moving & Storage has moved families and businesses in Cicero for more than 40 years. Our crews handle local and long-distance moves, residential and commercial relocations, packing services, and secure storage for situations where dates don’t line up.
If you want support from an experienced team that knows how to manage Cicero’s busy streets, apartment buildings, older homes, and multi-unit properties, we’re here to help.
Call 847-593-7201 or request a free quote online. Mid-West Moving & Storage provides dependable moving services for anyone moving into Cicero or moving out to a new chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there quieter areas or “better” neighborhoods within Cicero?
Cicero has pockets that feel very different from one another. Some streets have
mostly single-family homes with long-time owners and a quieter pace. Other areas
near major roads or commercial corridors feel much busier. People who want a
calmer environment often look for blocks that sit a little farther from Cicero
Avenue, Cermak Road, or 26th Street and pay attention to how many multi-unit
buildings are on the block. Walking or driving the area in the evening and on
weekends is one of the best ways to get a feel for whether it matches your
preference.
Is Cicero a good option for retirees or older adults?
Cicero can work for older adults who want to stay close to Chicago, live near
family, or remain in a familiar cultural community. The town’s walkability and
access to buses can be helpful for people who no longer want to drive everywhere.
At the same time, older housing and multi-story buildings with stairs can be a
drawback for anyone with mobility issues. Seniors considering Cicero often focus
on ground-floor units, elevator buildings, or homes with fewer steps, and they
look closely at how close they are to medical offices, pharmacies, and grocery
stores.
Are property taxes high in Cicero?
Property taxes in Cicero follow Cook County’s tax structure. While they are not
the lowest in Illinois, they are often more manageable than in northern Cook
County communities or suburbs with top-tier school districts. The exact tax
burden varies by property type, neighborhood, and assessed value, so buyers
should always check the specific tax bill for the home they are considering.
Director of Marketing & Development
Kari-Ann Ryan is a dynamic marketing strategist with a proven track record in brand development, corporate visibility, and business growth. As the Director of Marketing & Development for Mid-West Moving & Storage and Chicago Office Movers, she leads all branding, marketing, and business development initiatives, driving awareness and engagement across multiple industries.
With extensive experience in multi-brand marketing, nonprofit fundraising, event planning, and retail management, Kari-Ann brings a comprehensive and results-driven approach to her role. She is a dedicated leader in the business community, actively involved in the Schaumburg Business Association and the GOA Regional Business Association. She also serves as a Board Member for the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, reinforcing her commitment to advocacy and philanthropy.
In addition to her corporate role, Kari-Ann is the founder of LMJ’s Lost Souls – Alzheimer’s Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to awareness, education, and fundraising for Alzheimer’s research and support.
She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Western Michigan University and is Certified in Constant Contact Email Marketing, with expertise in social media strategy and digital engagement.
