Park Forest in 1948 began to provide housing for veterans returning from World War II which gave it the nickname “GI town”. It is located approximately 30 miles south of Chicago. It has an innovative design that has been used as a model throughout the world by towns. Park Forest was ranked by the Business Insider as third in the nation for affordable housing.
Park Forest residents live in either Cook or Will county. There is easy access to three Metra commuter rail line stations. Over 59 percent of the homes in Park Forest are single-family and another 40 percent are multi-family.
Park Forest has various parks, recreation facilities, ball parks, playgrounds and picnic facilities. Park Forest has one of the most popular outdoor swimming complexes in the state. The village has multiple private and public schools.