I’ll create a blog post about the City of Hazel Crest following the specified guidelines. I’ll use web search to gather accurate information about the city. Based on the search results, I’ll craft a blog post about the City of Hazel Crest:
Nestled in the heart of Cook County, Hazel Crest is a vibrant suburban community with a rich history and diverse population. Located approximately 25 miles south of Chicago, this village has evolved from a small settlement to a thriving suburban destination that reflects the dynamic landscape of the Chicago Southland.
Historical Roots and Founding
The story of Hazel Crest begins in 1890 when William and Carrie McClintock first arrived in the area. Purchasing 80 acres between Homewood and Harvey, they were drawn by the promising activity along the Illinois Central Railroad. Carrie McClintock played a pivotal role in the community’s development, leading a petition to change the area’s name from South Harvey to Hazel Crest, inspired by the abundant hazelnut bushes that dotted the landscape.
Demographic Transformation
Hazel Crest has undergone significant demographic shifts throughout its history. As of 2026, the village boasts a population of approximately 12,841 residents. The community has experienced a notable demographic evolution:
- Racial Composition:
- 84.67% Black or African American
- 7.87% White
- 4.09% Other races
- 2.92% Two or more races
- Median Age: 38.1 years
- Median Household Income: $68,393
Economic Landscape
The economic profile of Hazel Crest reveals a community with both challenges and opportunities:
- Poverty Rate: 23.95%
- Homeownership Rate: 70.3%
- Median Property Value: $181,400
Community and Infrastructure
Hazel Crest is characterized by its complex municipal structure, overlapping with various local governments. The village is served by:
- 4 Elementary School Districts
- 3 High School Districts
- 3 Townships
- 2 Community College Districts
- Shared Library District with Country Club Hills
Transportation and Commuting
Residents of Hazel Crest have diverse commuting patterns:
- 71.1% drive alone to work
- 11.9% work from home
- 7.99% use public transit
The community's proximity to major transportation routes, including the Illinois Central Railroad and Interstate 80/94, provides excellent connectivity to Chicago and surrounding suburbs.
Despite facing challenges such as a slight population decline, Hazel Crest remains a resilient and dynamic community. Its rich history, diverse population, and strategic location continue to make it a unique and important part of the Chicago Southland.
When was Hazel Crest incorporated?
+Hazel Crest was incorporated in 1911, with an initial population of around 310 residents.
What is the median age in Hazel Crest?
+The median age is 38.1 years, with females having a slightly higher median age of 40.1 years compared to males at 36.2 years.
How diverse is Hazel Crest?
+Hazel Crest is predominantly African American, with 84.67% of residents identifying as Black or African American, making it one of the most diverse suburbs in the Chicago area.