About Addison
Addison, Illinois is a vibrant and welcoming community in DuPage County, part of the greater Chicago metropolitan area. Home to approximately 35,700 residents, Addison has grown from a small rural settlement into a dynamic suburban village that blends modern amenities with a strong sense of community. Its convenient location, about 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and close to O’Hare International Airport, makes it ideal for commuters, families, and professionals seeking suburban living without sacrificing city access.
The village’s history dates back to the mid-19th century when it was known as Dunklee’s Grove, named after one of the earliest settlers. Officially incorporated in 1884, Addison began as a small crossroads community with farms, mills, and a few local businesses. After World War II, residential development accelerated, transforming farmland into neighborhoods for growing families. Today, Addison covers roughly 10 square miles, featuring a mix of traditional single-family homes, townhouses, and modern condominiums. Tree-lined streets and a variety of housing options make it attractive for first-time buyers, growing families, and empty nesters alike.
Addison is a multicultural community, reflecting the diversity of the Chicago area. Its residents represent a variety of racial and ethnic backgrounds, contributing to a rich and welcoming environment. Median household income is approximately $87,500, and the village maintains a stable economic environment with low poverty rates. This financial stability supports excellent public services, well-maintained neighborhoods, and vibrant community amenities.
Education is a cornerstone of life in Addison. The village is served by multiple public elementary schools feeding into Addison Trail High School, part of DuPage High School District 88. The high school offers a wide array of academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Families seeking private education options can choose from St. Philip the Apostle School, a Catholic school serving pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Additionally, residents have access to nearby higher education institutions such as DeVry University and Chamberlain College of Nursing, providing opportunities for lifelong learning.
Economically, Addison benefits from a diverse employment base. Logistics, manufacturing, corporate offices, and retail all thrive in the village, thanks to its proximity to major highways including I-290 and I-355. Key employers include United Parcel Service, Parts Town LLC, The Pampered Chef, and Walmart, offering roles from warehouse and distribution to corporate and professional positions. This mix supports a strong local economy and opportunities for residents in various fields.
Recreation and culture are abundant in Addison. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Salt Creek Greenway Trail, which winds through scenic parks and connects neighborhoods with forest preserves. Community Park offers playgrounds, sports fields, walking paths, and spaces for family activities. The village also hosts attractions like Safari Land, an indoor amusement center, and the Addison Ice Arena, providing year-round skating and hockey programs. For history and culture, the Addison Historical Museum preserves the village’s heritage through three historic buildings and exhibits showcasing Addison’s agricultural and architectural past.
Addison’s community events foster neighborly connections and civic pride. Seasonal festivals, concerts, parades, and markets bring residents together, making the village feel welcoming and lively. Even the legacy of former attractions, such as Adventureland, a popular mid-20th-century amusement park, adds a unique chapter to local history.
Addison has produced and attracted notable figures across sports, entertainment, and the arts. Among them are Olympic figure skater Alexa Scimeca Knierim, sportscaster Adam Amin, comedian Kyle Kinane, and hockey legends Bobby Hull and Brett Hull. Their connection to Addison reflects the community’s supportive environment and opportunities for talent to grow.
For those considering relocation, Addison offers an ideal combination of suburban charm, cultural richness, and practical convenience. Quality schools, diverse housing options, thriving local businesses, and abundant recreational opportunities make it appealing to families, professionals, and retirees alike. Its close proximity to Chicago ensures residents can enjoy urban amenities while coming home to a welcoming, tight-knit community. Addison is more than a suburb; it is a village with character, opportunity, and a strong sense of place, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to establish roots in the Chicago area.
