Loading ...Ten Neighborhoods in Illinois with Thriving Arab Communities
Arab people are scattered across the US, many having formed strong communities in their respective areas. Illinois has several notable Arab communities that form part of a large collective Arab population within the state. We’ll be looking at 10 of the largest ones, including Chicago itself, and also give you an overview of those cities’ rental and housing opportunities.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago itself has a significant and growing Arab community. This despite rental prices steadily increasing over the past year. There’s a good diversity between regular and upscale properties available, both of which offer reasonably competitive rental prices. Because warmer months cause higher rental demand, prices do seem to veer to the higher side between May and August every year.
Skokie
Arab communities thrive in Skokie because it is not only a family-friendly city but also one where professionals can enjoy decent salaries and corporate job opportunities. Rentals in Skokie are significantly lower than average, giving you the opportunity to take out additional cover like renters insurance. It is important to understand what is covered by your renters insurance policy, so do your research and consider this as an additional option when renting.
Oak Lawn
Arab communities in Oak Lawn enjoy the family-oriented amenities this city provides. These include great parks, recreational options, and schools. The rentals are slightly lower than Skokie in certain areas of the city, making this an affordable option to move to. Oak Lawn is also close to Chicago, giving residents quick access to the main city’s many work and shopping districts.
Wheaton
Wheaton is becoming more and more appealing to Arab families due to its cleanliness and good management. For this reason many of the homes here rent out for higher prices, in a mid-range level between Chicago and Skokie. Wheaton has a vibrant nightlife downtown as well as several popular shopping centers.
Des Plaines
Des Plaines is another city with a growing Arab community. This city has a very diverse housing market, including townhouses, single-bedroom apartments, and full-size family homes. If you’re planning to move to Des Plaines you can expect affordable rental costs as well as home purchasing options.
Elmhurst
Arab families will love Elmhurst due to its notable standard of good schools and kid-friendly recreation. Rentals here are on the more expensive side here, as is the housing market, due to the high standard of the neighborhoods here. There’s high demand in Elmhurstfor accommodation, but construction is always progressing to provide more housing opportunities for residents and landlords alike.
Cicero
Just west of Chicago is Cicero, an affordable city that provides access to those who want to work in the big city itself. There’s a diverse culture here including large Arab communities from various Palestinian countries. Cicero is known for its affordable living costs and working-class families. Many people who work in Chicago live in Cicero as they can earn well while living in a more affordable area.
Naperville
Naperville is about as popular as Chicago itself. Families of various ethnicities flock to this city, and Arab families are no exception. With a growing Arab community moving here due to its higher income living standards, Naperville shows no signs of slowing down as a desirable destination for people moving to Illinois. The demand for housing is high, which is a sign that expansion is about to accelerate soon.
Aurora
If you want to move to a city in Illinois that’s currently undergoing fast expansion, then Aurora is a great option. Arab communities are forming quickly as many choose this city as their destination for raising a family and participating in the expanding job market.
Aurora offers access to main highways leading to neighboring cities, including Chicago. There are many housing options that are not limited to family homes, offering single-bedroom apartments, small townhouses, and even studio apartments.
Bridgeview
Rentals are very affordable in Bridgeview, giving young Arab professionals opportunities to get started in the job market. Homes go for less than in neighboring cities in Illinois, and work opportunities are expanding. Bridgeview already has a very diverse community of residents, forming an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion among the people who live here.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to join one of Illinois’ many Arab communities, these ten cities stand out as excellent options. Do some research on schools, recreational centers, and healthcare facilities on each one to get a better idea of which city fits your needs perfectly.
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