About Will County, Illinois

Will County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Illinois and the entire Midwest region. Located in northeastern Illinois, it serves as a vital link between Chicago's metropolitan area and downstate Illinois communities.

Geography & Location

Will County encompasses approximately 845 square miles in northeastern Illinois, positioned strategically between Cook County (Chicago) to the north and Kankakee County to the south. The county is bordered by DuPage and Cook counties to the north, Kendall County to the west, Grundy County to the southwest, and Kankakee County to the south.

The Des Plaines River flows through the eastern portion of the county, while the DuPage River runs through the northern areas. The Illinois & Michigan Canal, a National Heritage Corridor, passes through Will County and played a crucial role in the region's historical development.

Demographics & Population

Will County has experienced remarkable growth over the past few decades:

• Population: Over 690,000 residents (2020 Census)
• Growth Rate: One of the fastest-growing counties in Illinois
• Diversity: Increasingly diverse population with various cultural communities
• Median Age: Younger than state average, attracting families
• Households: Mix of suburban families, young professionals, and retirees

Major Cities & Communities

Joliet - County Seat

With a population exceeding 150,000, Joliet is the county seat and third-largest city in Illinois. Historic downtown Joliet features entertainment venues, dining, and the famous Old Joliet Prison. The city is home to major attractions including Harrah's Casino, Chicagoland Speedway, and Route 66 Raceway.

Plainfield

Once a small farming community, Plainfield has transformed into one of the county's largest villages with over 44,000 residents. Known for excellent schools, modern subdivisions, and strong community spirit, Plainfield offers a blend of historic downtown charm and suburban amenities.

Bolingbrook

A diverse and rapidly growing community of over 74,000 residents. Bolingbrook features the Promenade Bolingbrook shopping center, excellent parks, and easy access to major highways. The village is known for its strong retail sector and family-friendly atmosphere.

Romeoville

Home to approximately 40,000 residents, Romeoville offers a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The village features numerous parks, golf courses, and the Romeoville Recreation Center.

Other Communities

Will County includes many other vibrant communities: Lockport (historic I&M Canal town), New Lenox (suburban family community), Frankfort (village square and historic charm), Mokena (tight-knit community), Crest Hill, Homer Glen, Manhattan, Monee, Peotone, and many more.

County History

Will County was established on January 12, 1836, and named after Conrad Will, a member of the first Illinois Constitutional Convention. The county's development closely followed the construction of the Illinois & Michigan Canal, which connected Lake Michigan to the Illinois River.

19th Century Development

The I&M Canal, completed in 1848, transformed the region from frontier land to a commercial hub. Joliet became a center for limestone quarrying, steel production, and manufacturing. The county's location made it an important transportation corridor for both waterways and, later, railroads.

20th Century Growth

Throughout the 1900s, Will County maintained its industrial base while gradually adding suburban residential communities. The mid-to-late 20th century saw explosive suburban growth as families moved from Chicago seeking more affordable housing and larger properties.

Modern Era

The 21st century has brought unprecedented growth. New housing developments, commercial centers, and infrastructure improvements have accommodated population increases. The county continues to balance growth with preservation of agricultural land, forest preserves, and historic sites.

Economy & Employment

Will County's economy is diverse and robust:

• Logistics & Warehousing: Major distribution centers for national retailers
• Manufacturing: Traditional strength in steel and industrial production
• Healthcare: Growing sector with multiple hospital systems
• Retail & Hospitality: Shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues
• Agriculture: Still significant in rural areas
• Transportation: Strategic location supports trucking and logistics

Transportation

Will County benefits from extensive transportation infrastructure:

• Highways: I-55, I-80, I-355, US Route 30, US Route 45, and US Route 52
• Rail: Metra commuter rail (Rock Island and SouthWest Service lines)
• Freight Rail: Major rail corridors for goods movement
• Airports: Near Chicago airports (Midway and O'Hare)

Education

The county is served by over 30 school districts offering public education, plus numerous private and parochial schools. Higher education institutions include:

• Joliet Junior College (community college)
• University of St. Francis (Joliet)
• Lewis University (Romeoville)
• Rasmussen College campus

Recreation & Culture

Will County offers abundant recreational opportunities:

• Forest Preserves: Over 22,000 acres of preserved land
• Parks: Hundreds of municipal and county parks
• Entertainment: Chicagoland Speedway, Route 66 Raceway, Hollywood Casino
• Historic Sites: Old Joliet Prison, I&M Canal trails, historic downtowns
• Arts & Culture: Rialto Square Theatre, various community theaters

Why Choose Will County?

Will County offers an attractive combination of factors:

• More affordable housing compared to Cook and DuPage counties
• Excellent schools and family-friendly communities
• Easy access to Chicago while maintaining suburban character
• Growing job market with diverse employment opportunities
• Abundant parks, recreation, and entertainment options
• Strong sense of community in established and new neighborhoods
• Modern infrastructure and continued development