O'Neil Property Group
Will County Real Estate

Will County, Illinois

Illinois’ fourth-largest county β€” diverse communities, strong schools, and an affordable suburban lifestyle with direct access to Chicago. Find your home with a trusted local team.

~$350KMedian Home Price
720K+County Population
40+Communities
5β˜…Google Reviews
~$350KMedian Home Price
720K+County Population
40+Communities
5β˜…Google Reviews

Living in Will County, Illinois

Will County stretches across the southwest suburbs of Chicago, spanning more than 800 square miles and ranking as the fourth-largest county in Illinois by population. Anchored by Joliet β€” the county seat β€” and surrounded by established communities like Plainfield, Naperville, New Lenox, and Frankfort, the county attracts families, professionals, and investors drawn to a wide range of housing options, strong school districts, and proximity to major employment corridors.

What sets Will County apart is the balance of value and variety. Buyers find everything from entry-level homes in Joliet and Romeoville to luxury estates in Frankfort and Homer Glen, with median prices that remain more accessible than DuPage County. School districts like Plainfield 202, Lockport 205, and Lincoln-Way 210 consistently rank among the region’s strongest. New construction remains active in communities like Plainfield, Shorewood, and Manhattan, offering modern floor plans and energy-efficient builds at prices that stretch further than the inner suburbs.

The Des Plaines and DuPage rivers wind through the county, feeding into an extensive network of forest preserves, trails, and recreational areas managed by one of the largest forest preserve districts in the state. Interstates 55, 80, and 355 form the transportation backbone, with Metra lines serving Joliet, Lockport, New Lenox, Frankfort, and Mokena for daily commuters. For families and professionals who want space, strong schools, and a straight shot into Chicago, Will County delivers.

Will County Snapshot

  • County Seat: Joliet
  • Largest Community: Joliet
  • Key Towns: Joliet, Plainfield, Wilmington, Bolingbrook, Manhattan, Channahon, Peotone
  • Major Highways: I-55, I-80, I-355
  • Metra Stations: Joliet, Lockport, New Lenox, Frankfort, Mokena
  • Adjacent Counties: Cook (N), DuPage (NW), Kendall (W), Grundy (SW), Kankakee (S), Kane (NW)
  • Known For: Diverse communities, forest preserves, transportation access, family living, growth corridors

Will County by the Numbers

A quick look at what makes Will County one of the most dynamic suburban markets southwest of Chicago.

🏠~$350KMedian Sale Price
πŸ“ˆ4th LargestIllinois County by Population
πŸŽ“Top 15%School Districts Statewide
πŸš—40–60 minCommute to Chicago Loop
πŸ—οΈActiveNew Construction Builders
πŸ’°2.0–2.8%Avg Property Tax Rate
🌊21,000 acForest Preserve Land
🏑15–25%Less Than DuPage Pricing

Communities in Will County

Each community offers its own character, school district, and housing profile. Explore below to find the right fit for your family, lifestyle, and budget.

Joliet, Illinois downtown
Will County

Joliet

As the county seat and largest city, Joliet offers one of the most diverse housing markets in the region. From historic neighborhoods near the Rialto Square Theatre to newer developments in the west side, buyers find options from the low $100s to $500K+. The city anchors Will County’s transportation network with Metra, I-80, and I-55 access.

County SeatMetra AccessDiverse Housing
Explore Joliet
Plainfield, Illinois community
Will County

Plainfield

One of Will County’s fastest-growing communities, Plainfield is a top pick for families. Plainfield School District 202 earns strong ratings statewide, and neighborhoods like Whispering Hills, Grande Park, and Clublands offer housing at every price point from the low $200s to $700K+.

Top SchoolsNew ConstructionFamily-Focused
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Wilmington, Illinois scenic area
Will County

New Lenox

A highly sought-after community known for excellent schools and a strong sense of neighborhood identity. Lincoln-Way School District 210 is one of the top-performing districts in the state, and housing ranges from established ranch homes to newer construction in the $300K–$600K range. Family-oriented amenities and low crime make New Lenox a consistent favorite.

Top SchoolsFamily-OrientedSafe Community
Explore New Lenox
Bolingbrook, Illinois homes
Will County

Frankfort

An upscale village with a charming historic downtown, top-rated Lincoln-Way schools, and a premium housing market. Frankfort draws buyers looking for executive-style homes, wooded lots, and a walkable town center with local shops and restaurants. Median prices here trend higher, reflecting the community’s desirability.

Upscale LivingHistoric DowntownLincoln-Way Schools
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Tree-lined residential street in Manhattan, Illinois
Will County

Homer Glen

A quiet residential community south of Plainfield with family-focused neighborhoods and good value. Many Manhattan homes fall within the Plainfield 202 school district, making it an appealing option for families who want top schools at a lower price point.

Quiet SettingGood ValuePlainfield Schools
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Green countryside landscape near Channahon, Illinois
Will County

Lockport

A historic canal town with a revitalized downtown, scenic riverwalk, and excellent schools. Lockport Township High School District 205 ranks among the best in Will County. Housing ranges from affordable bungalows near the historic district to newer construction in surrounding subdivisions. Metra service provides direct commuter access.

Country LivingAffordableSmall Town
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Rural farmland and open landscape near Peotone, Illinois
Will County

Mokena

A small but highly desirable village in the Lincoln-Way school district with a tight-knit atmosphere and strong property values. Mokena features well-maintained neighborhoods, local parks, and Metra rail service on the SouthWest Service line. Popular with families looking for a quieter pace within easy reach of larger shopping and employment centers.

RuralAcreageCommunity
Explore Mokena
Newer suburban home in Minooka, Illinois
Will County

Shorewood

A rapidly growing village just south of Joliet with newer subdivisions, family-friendly amenities, and solid schools. Minooka’s proximity to I-80 and I-55 makes it commuter-friendly in multiple directions, and residential development continues to attract families.

GrowingFamily FriendlySuburban
Explore Shorewood

Homes for Sale in Will County

Browse all active Will County listings below. Filter by price, community, property type, and more.

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Schools & Education in Will County

Strong schools are a cornerstone of Will County’s appeal. The county’s public districts consistently rank among Illinois’ best.

Plainfield SD 202

Plainfield Β· Manhattan

One of the largest and highest-rated districts in Will County, serving Plainfield and surrounding areas. Known for strong academics, competitive athletics, and consistent growth. Rated A- by Niche.

Lincoln-Way CHSD 210

Joliet

A premier high school district serving New Lenox, Frankfort, and Mokena. Consistently ranks among the top districts in Illinois for academics, athletics, and college readiness.

Lockport Twp HSD 205

New Lenox

Serving Lockport, Homer Glen, and surrounding areas, LTHS 205 is known for strong academics, competitive sports programs, and engaged community involvement. A top-performing district in Will County.

Joliet Twp HSD 204

Portions of Bolingbrook Β· Wilmington area

The largest high school district in Will County, serving Joliet and surrounding communities. District 204 offers diverse academic programs, career-technical education, and competitive athletics across two comprehensive high schools.

Valley View SD 365U

Shorewood

Serving Romeoville and Bolingbrook, Valley View offers a diverse student body with strong academic and extracurricular programs. The district continues to invest in technology and facility upgrades.

Private & Charter Options

Throughout Will County

Multiple private, charter, and faith-based schools offer alternatives for families seeking specialized educational programs and smaller class sizes.

Life in Will County

Beyond homes and schools, Will County offers an extensive forest preserve system, local dining, vibrant downtowns, and a growing community culture across its diverse neighborhoods.

Recreation & Outdoors

  • Forest Preserve Trails: Over 21,000 acres and 116 miles of interlinking trails for biking, hiking, and nature exploration across the county
  • Parks & Green Spaces: Extensive park districts in Joliet, Plainfield, New Lenox, and Frankfort with sports complexes, playgrounds, and natural areas
  • Golf Courses: Multiple courses from executive par-3 to championship 18-hole layouts
  • Water Activities: Des Plaines River paddling, lake fishing, and seasonal events at county forest preserves
  • Nature Preserves: County-managed preserves for hiking, bird watching, and outdoor education

Downtown & Community

  • Frankfort Downtown: Charming shops, restaurants, galleries, and weekly farmers markets in the historic village center
  • Lockport Historic District: Revitalized canal town with dining, retail, the Illinois State Museum annex, and community events along the historic canal
  • Local Events: Joliet Slammers games, Route 66 events, seasonal festivals, concert series, and holiday celebrations year-round
  • Dining: Farm-to-table restaurants, family spots, breweries, and ethnic cuisine reflecting the county’s growth
  • Shopping & Services: Major retailers along Route 34 and Route 30, plus local shops in each community

Moving to Will County

Whether you’re relocating from another state or moving from the inner suburbs, here’s what you need to know.

The Commute Advantage

Will County sits at the crossroads of I-55, I-80, and I-355, with efficient access to downtown Chicago (40–60 min depending on community), the I-55 corridor job centers, and southwest suburban employment hubs. Multiple Metra lines serve Joliet, Lockport, New Lenox, Frankfort, and Mokena, providing reliable rail commuter alternatives. The county’s highway network connects residents to O’Hare, Midway, and the greater Chicagoland region.

Cost of Living

Compared to DuPage County, buyers find comparable homes at 15–25% lower price points. Schools are competitive across multiple high-performing districts. Property taxes average 2.0–2.8% depending on municipality, and overall cost of living is lower than Naperville, Hinsdale, or Downers Grove. Will County’s size and diversity offer strong long-term appreciation potential, particularly in growth corridors around Plainfield, New Lenox, and Frankfort.

I-55 Corridor

Primary north-south highway connecting Joliet to Chicago Loop and southwest suburbs

I-80 Access

Southern county connectivity for industrial and logistics employment

Metra Rail

Aurora & Naperville stations within 15–25 min drive

I-355

North-south corridor through the heart of the county

Lower Taxes

Competitive property tax rates vs. inner suburban counties

Strong Schools

Multiple districts in top 15% statewide rankings

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What Is Your Home Worth?

Get a free, no-obligation home valuation from our team. We’ll provide a detailed market analysis based on recent sales, current inventory, and local market conditions in your community.

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Why O’Neil Property Group?

We’re not just real estate agents β€” we’re Will County residents who live, work, and raise families here. Our local expertise makes the difference.

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Local Expertise

We know these neighborhoods β€” school ratings, commute patterns, property values, and market trends β€” because we live here. We answer questions other agents can’t.

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Market Intelligence

Constant field presence means we understand current conditions, hidden opportunities, and realistic pricing β€” not what the market was doing six months ago.

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Relationship-Driven

We work with local lenders, inspectors, contractors, and title companies β€” relationships built over years that translate to smoother transactions for our clients.

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Professional Consultation

We start by understanding your goals before we talk homes or strategies. Your priorities drive every recommendation we make.

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5-Star Client Experience

Our Google reviews reflect a consistent commitment to transparent communication, honest advice, and results that speak for themselves.

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Regional Coverage

Based in Joliet and serving six counties. Whether you’re comparing Plainfield to Plainfield or Geneva to Glen Ellyn, we guide you through every option.

Trusted by Will County Homeowners

Real results from real clients. Here’s what buyers and sellers say about working with our team.

Google 4.9 β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 50+ reviews

Common Questions About Will County Real Estate

Answers to the questions buyers, sellers, and relocating families ask most about living in Will County.

What is the real estate market like in Will County?
Will County’s market remains strong with steady appreciation, consistent buyer demand, and a healthy mix of resale and new construction inventory. Median home prices are around $350,000. Homes in top school districts and newer subdivisions tend to sell quickly. Contact our team for the latest market analysis specific to your community of interest.
Is Will County a good place to live?
Will County consistently ranks among Illinois’ most desirable suburban areas. The combination of excellent schools, diverse housing stock, forest preserve recreation, and manageable commute times to Chicago makes it attractive for families and professionals. Property values offer genuine long-term appreciation, and community engagement is strong across all towns.
What towns are in Will County?
The primary communities in Will County include Plainfield, Joliet (the county seat), Wilmington, Bolingbrook, Manhattan, Channahon, Peotone, and portions of Minooka. Joliet and Plainfield are the largest, while Wilmington and Bolingbrook are growing rapidly. Each town has its own character and housing profile.
How long is the commute from Will County to Chicago?
Via I-55, expect 40–60 minutes to downtown Chicago depending on traffic and destination. Metra commuter rail stations in Aurora and Naperville are 15–25 minutes away by car, providing an alternative for daily commuters. Communities along I-55 like Joliet and Plainfield have the most direct highway access.
What are property taxes like in Will County?
The average property tax rate in Will County is approximately 2.0–2.8%, which is competitive compared to DuPage and Kane counties. Exact rates vary by community and school district. Smaller towns like Channahon and Peotone may have slightly different rates. We can provide exact tax information for any specific property or area.
Which Will County communities have the best schools?
Plainfield SD 202 and Lincoln-Way CHSD 210 both rank in Illinois’ top 15% statewide. Lockport Twp HSD 205 and Joliet Twp HSD 204 offer smaller, community-focused educational environments. Homes in top-rated school districts typically command 5–10% premiums over the county average.
Is Will County affordable compared to other Chicago suburbs?
Yes. Comparable homes cost 15–25% less than similar properties in Naperville, Downers Grove, or western DuPage. School quality is comparable, and the trade-off is a slightly longer commute to downtown Chicago. This value proposition makes Will County attractive for families and investors seeking suburban quality at accessible price points.
Are there new construction homes available in Will County?
Absolutely. Plainfield and Bolingbrook have active new construction programs with multiple national and regional builders. Joliet also has planned new developments. Our team has relationships with major builders and can provide early notice of new releases, pre-sale opportunities, and builder incentives.
What is the difference between Joliet and Plainfield?
Plainfield is the larger community with more suburban sprawl, newer construction, and the county’s strongest school district (308). Joliet is the county seat with a more vibrant downtown, walkable core, balanced residential-commercial mix, and slightly lower home prices. Choose Plainfield for family suburban living; Joliet for downtown amenities and community feel.
Where can I find homes with acreage in Will County?
Wilmington is the primary area for acreage properties, offering scenic rural parcels and ranch-style homes on multiple acres. Parts of Bolingbrook, Peotone, and outer Plainfield also have larger-lot properties. Contact our team for acreage-specific searches and current availability.
Is Will County growing?
Will County has been one of Illinois’ largest and most dynamic counties for over two decades. Population growth, new residential development, and commercial expansion continue, particularly in Joliet, Plainfield, and Frankfort. This growth trend supports strong property value appreciation and community investment.
What is the fastest-growing town in Will County?
Plainfield leads in population growth and residential development, with continuous new construction. Bolingbrook is the county’s emerging growth hub with modern subdivisions and planned infrastructure. Both offer strong resale potential and appreciation as they continue to develop.
Is Will County good for real estate investment?
Yes. The county combines affordable entry prices with strong appreciation potential. Rapid growth, excellent schools, and I-55 accessibility attract owner-occupants and renters. New construction offers low-maintenance rentals, and the county’s growth trajectory supports long-term value increases.
What is the best community for families in Will County?
Joliet and Plainfield are the most popular family communities due to their top-rated schools, parks systems, and neighborhood amenities. Wilmington offers a quieter, more rural family experience. The right choice depends on your school district preference, commute needs, and lifestyle priorities.
How do I search for homes in Will County?
Use our IDX search tool on this page to browse active listings filtered by price, community, property type, and school district. For personalized search assistance, private showings, or off-market opportunities, contact our team directly at 630-425-8815.
What is the median home price in Will County?
The median home sale price in Will County is approximately $350,000, reflecting strong suburban demand and active new construction. Prices range from ~$250K for starter homes to $500K+ for luxury properties. Specific pricing varies significantly by community, school district, and property condition.
Do I need a real estate agent to buy in Will County?
Not legally required, but strongly recommended. A knowledgeable local agent provides market expertise, negotiation skill, transaction management, and insider knowledge of neighborhoods and schools that typically results in better outcomes. Our team offers free consultations to discuss your specific situation.
What should I know before buying in Will County?
Get mortgage pre-approval, identify your priority community and school district, understand commute options, research property taxes and insurance costs, and work with a local agent who knows the market. We recommend scheduling community tours and neighborhood visits before making offers.
Are there waterfront homes in Will County?
Select communities along the Des Plaines River offer waterfront and river-adjacent properties. Pond-front homes are also available in several newer subdivisions. Waterfront inventory is limited and tends to sell quickly. Contact our team for current waterfront availability.
How do I relocate my family to Will County?
Start by identifying your priority community and school district. Get pre-approved for financing. Schedule community tours and home viewings with our team. We provide comprehensive relocation guidance including school registration help, utility setup information, and local service referrals. Call us at 630-425-8815 to get started.
What utilities are available in Will County?
ComEd provides electricity throughout the county. Nicor Gas handles natural gas service. Local water and sewer services vary by municipality. All major communities have broadband internet and strong cellular coverage. Contact individual municipalities for specific utility setup information, or ask our team for guidance.
Can O’Neil Property Group help with buying and selling?
Yes. We represent buyers, sellers, and investors across Will County and five surrounding counties. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, selling and relocating, or building an investment portfolio, our team provides full-service representation with deep local expertise. Reach us at 630-425-8815.

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