Carol Stream is the 27th most diverse suburb among 364 communities in Illinois. The village’s residents take pride in their diversity; 84% value and respect different backgrounds. This vibrant community of nearly 40,000 has much to do, but its strong sense of community makes it unique.

The village keeps your family safe, with crime rates 22% lower than the national average. The area boasts 45 parks and recreation centers that offer year-round activities for residents of all ages. The median household income of $103,525 shows the community’s economic strength, though living costs are 12% higher than the US average.

This guide covers everything about Carol Stream, including housing, safety, activities, and daily life. Whether planning a move or learning about the area, you’ll find practical information about this welcoming Illinois community.

What You Should Know About Carol Stream

Carol Stream covers 9.44 square miles in DuPage County, with land making up 96.64% and water covering 3.36%. The village is 25 miles west of Chicago and 4 miles north of Wheaton. Its location gives residents access to the city while keeping suburban peace.

Current estimates show 38,966 residents call Carol Stream home. The village boasts a rich cultural tapestry with 53.7% White, 19.5% Asian, and 18.3% Hispanic or Latino residents. The community’s international character is evident. 28.6% of residents were born abroad. 40% of households use a non-English language at home.

The village experiences all four seasons distinctly throughout the year. In July, temperatures reach an average high of 84°F. In contrast, January sees chilly lows around 13.6°F. Each year, the area gets about 38 inches of rain and 31 inches of snow in winter. September stands out as one of the most enjoyable months weather-wise.

Carol Stream’s residents value education highly, with 90.3% of adults completing high school and 43.8% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The community’s economic strength shows in its median household income of $105,395.

Finding Your New Home

Carol Stream has several great neighborhoods. 

Armstrong Park attracts families with its friendly atmosphere, beautiful homes, and top-rated schools. 

Cambridge Pointe welcomes residents with various housing choices, from single-family homes to townhouses, and the community features beautiful walking paths. 

Easton Park, developed between 2000 and 2015, offers affordable townhomes with lovely pond views and easy access to shopping centers.

The housing market in Carol Stream shows remarkable strength. Home prices now reach a median of $364,333, showing a 13.9% jump from last year. Houses typically stay on the market for 17 days, and 40% sell above the asking price. Prices vary based on size – single-bedroom homes have increased by 19.9%, while five-bedroom properties dropped by 5.8%.

Renters can expect to pay around $1,647 for an 865-square-foot apartment. The local real estate market features single-family homes, townhouses, and condos with prices between $179,000 and $661,000. The average cost per square foot stands at $211, which puts Carol Stream’s housing costs above many other Illinois communities. Quick sales and competitive pricing show sellers have an advantage in this market.

Carol Stream Safety and Services

Carol Stream’s public safety record shows crime rates 22% lower than the national average. Residents enjoy a safer environment with only eight crimes per 1,000 people. We recorded violent crimes at just 1 per thousand inhabitants, while property crimes stayed at 8 per 1,000 residents.

The village’s Police Department has 74 dedicated officers committed to community safety. The department’s new drone program helps improve public safety responses, and its traffic safety initiatives effectively target impaired drivers on local roads.

Emergency medical services thrive with 50 licensed paramedics who operate three advanced life support ambulances—two paramedics staff each ambulance with vital equipment for critical care. Carol Stream residents benefit greatly – the Fire District covers any ambulance fees their insurance doesn’t pay.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program strengthens local emergency preparedness. Team members develop vital skills such as:

• Simple fire suppression strategies
• Emergency medical treatment
• Search and rescue techniques
• Disaster response coordination

Outreach Carol Stream has served village residents since 1986 with comprehensive social services. This center helps older adults with practical assistance, transportation, and regular social activities. The police social services division offers 24/7 emergency support. They provide free counseling and victim advocacy services.

Daily Life in Carol Stream

Community Consolidated School District 93 runs innovative programs that benefit Carol Stream students. The district’s Summer STEAM Camp engages over 300 students in hands-on projects. Students can join Chess Club and Career Day programs to connect with professionals in any discipline.

Heritage Plaza Shopping Center’s anchor store Jewel-Osco, serves shoppers at West Army Trail Road and North County Farm Road. 

Angelo Caputo’s Fresh Markets features Bar Angelo with its hundreds of craft beers and imported wines. 

ALDI on Schmale Road lets customers order online with easy curbside pickup.

The community has excellent medical facilities. UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group provides primary care services, and Duly Health and Care on Belmont Lane provides detailed family medicine to complement these services.

Getting around the region is easy:

• O’Hare International Airport is 20 miles northeast and takes about 35 minutes to reach
• Pace bus routes 709 and 711 connect residential areas like Greenway, Lakehaven, and the Carol Stream Industrial Park
• Nearby Hanover Park and Bartlett stations give access to the Metra Rail System

The area’s significant roads include I-355 (the Veteran’s Memorial Tollway), which connects to I-290 and I-88, making commutes simple. The leading local roads are North Avenue, Army Trail Road, and Gary Avenue.

Fun Things to Do in Carol Stream

Carol Stream Park District manages 440 acres of parks and open space, earning several awards for its excellence. The district connects 38 neighborhood parks through a vast trail system that gives outdoor enthusiasts plenty of recreation choices.

The park has 23 miles of paths and trails. They connect to regional systems and forest preserves. The Great Western Trail cuts through the village and provides 61 miles of hiking, biking, and nature paths. Residents enjoy five miles of paved trails and three recreation centers maintained by the park district.

Coral Cove Water Park stands out as a family favorite with these features:

• Two tall waterslides and a deep water plunge pool
• Interactive water playground and spray zone
• Large walk-in swimming pool with diving board
• Spacious patio deck and café

Families love the 18-hole professionally designed Coyote Crossing Mini Golf course. It’s perfect for a fun day out or practicing your short game. The park district runs sports leagues for all ages and offers programs in:

• Dance and gymnastics
• Aquatics and fitness classes
• Summer camps
• Special interest activities

The Rockin’ Jump trampoline park safely allows kids to bounce, leap, and tumble. The Town Center hosts community events year-round, and the Summer Concert Series draws big crowds. The park district organizes free special events regularly and runs an accredited preschool program. These features make Carol Stream a perfect spot for families who want year-round activities.

Planning a Move to Carol Stream in 2025

Carol Stream is a welcoming community. It blends suburban comfort with urban convenience. Families value the village’s strong safety record as crime rates remain well below national averages. The park system covers 440 acres of green space and 23 miles of trails. It offers year-round outdoor activities for residents.

The Armstrong Park area and Easton Park offer family-friendly homes that fit your lifestyle. Carol Stream’s schools and community are excellent, so it’s worth a look despite its higher prices than nearby areas.

The village is a prime spot that gives you quick access to Chicago. It has its own identity. This comes from local shops, parks, and events. The ARG Team stands ready to help you settle into Carol Stream smoothly. Life in this dynamic Illinois community means you’ll be part of a diverse place where neighbors care about each other.