Will County Public RecordsIllinois

As of 2023, Will County, IL, has a population of approximately 698,000. The median age is about 38. Females make up 50.5% and males 49.5% of residents. Racially, the county is 63% White, 16% Hispanic or Latino, 13% Black or African American, 6% Asian, and about 2% identify as other or multiracial. The population reflects significant diversity, with a growing proportion of minority groups in recent years.

Will County, IL, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2023, the overall crime rate was 1,850 per 100,000 residents, with violent crime at 220 and property crime at 1,630 per 100,000. These figures are notably below the Illinois state averages. The Will County Sheriff’s Office actively reports on crime through annual public safety reports, emphasizing transparency and community partnerships. Enhanced patrols and community programs contribute to a gradual decline in crime over recent years, promoting a safer environment for residents.

Will County, IL, had 464,957 registered voters in 2022. The County Clerk’s Office oversees elections, including primaries, generals, and consolidated local elections at over 300 polling locations. In the 2020 presidential election, turnout was 74%, with Democrats slightly outpolling Republicans—Biden received 52% to Trump’s 46%. Key local issues include property taxes, public safety, and infrastructure. Both major parties are active, and election results are published online. Early voting, mail-in voting, and Election Day precinct voting are all available to residents.

Will County, IL, serves over 150,000 students across 200+ public schools, including 30+ high schools. Approximately 90% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 33% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school ratings range from 6 to 8 (GreatSchools). The county offers a range of adult education and vocational programs through community colleges like Joliet Junior College. School safety is a priority, with most schools reporting above-average safety scores. Robust STEM, arts, and college prep programs are available, supporting student achievement and diverse educational needs.

Will County, IL, had an employment rate of approximately 63.4% in 2023. Major industries include health care (13.7%), retail (11.8%), and manufacturing (10.2%). Common occupations are office/administrative (13.6%) and sales (10.3%). About 80% of workers commute outside their city for work, with a mean travel time of 32.3 minutes; nearly 67% drive alone. Key employment destinations include Joliet and Chicago.

Will County, IL, boasts a homeownership rate of about 79%, with a median home value near $275,000 as of 2024. Rental occupancy is roughly 21%, and median monthly rent is approximately $1,400. The area features diverse housing types, including suburban single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, with sought-after neighborhoods like Naperville, Joliet, and Plainfield. Recent years have seen property values increase by 5-7% annually. Property taxes average 2.7% of assessed value, among the highest in Illinois, translating to a median annual tax bill around $6,800.