RANK #171 / 996 · POP 517,254 · IL
PROJECTED GROWTH: +2.3%
The Fabyan Windmill in Geneva stands as a distinctive landmark in Kane County, Illinois, a testament to the area's rich history and blend of urban and rural landscapes. Located about 40 miles west of Chicago, Kane County is one of the "collar counties" surrounding the metropolitan area. Commute times to downtown Chicago from towns like Elburn can range from 60 to 80 minutes by train, with various public transit options available throughout the county, including Pace bus routes and Ride in Kane services for eligible residents. The Fox River, a notable natural feature, flows through the county, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. Over 23,000 acres of forest preserves provide extensive outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
Life in Kane County offers a mix of suburban amenities and access to natural spaces, appealing to families and professionals. The public school systems are highly rated, with numerous schools serving the county's students. Recent economic developments focus on attracting new investment and supporting existing businesses through coordinated efforts. The Kane County Economic Development Corporation, a public-private partnership, targets growth in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, food and beverage production, logistics, and life sciences. The county's economy is evolving, with an emphasis on maintaining a skilled workforce and leveraging infrastructure to foster continued prosperity.
Above national median (4.7x)
Below national median
Below-average climate & terrain
Housing is fairly valued at 5.2x relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
IDOT Road and Bridge Projects (7 projects combined)
Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)
|
$107M | Under Construction |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Kane County has a Boom Town Index score of 83/100, ranking #171 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +0.3% and a median household income of $96,400, it's an above-average county on economic indicators.
The median home value in Kane County is $290,100 with median rent at $1,335/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.3323, which is more affordable than the national average.
Population growth: -0.3% year-over-year. Job growth: +0.3%. Home values changed +3.9% in the past 12 months.
Yes — 4.95% of Kane County's population moved from another state, which is above the national average and indicates strong in-migration.