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Crystal Lake, Illinois

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What It Is Like to Retire in Crystal lake

Crystal Lake is an affluent suburb west of Chicago near the lake of the same name. Crystal Lake was so named because of its cyrstal clear waters. The population was 40,493 in 2014. The Crystal Lakes Park District operates several beautiful parks in the city.  The historic downtown district has been revitalized and showcases several examples of the collectible terra cotta tiles made here by the Teco pottery plant. Photo of downtown and photo of Clock located at the intersection of Brink and William Streets courtesy of Wikipedia and cosmo1976 (public domain); photo of Sunset over Crystal Lake courtesy of Wikipedia and Otherbeach, Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0/

Where to Retire in Crystal lake and Home Prices

There are several neighborhoods to choose from, as well as active communities in the area. Lakewood is an exclusive private community on the lake that is closely associated with the Turnberry Country Club. Zillow reports the median home value to be $284,928 in late 2021.

What Is Special about Crystal lake

The former Dole Mansion on Crystal Lake was one of the most famous mansions in Illinois.  Now it is owned by the Lakeside Legacy. There is a festival held on the grounds every year. The Teco pottery produced here is quite famous and museum worthy, some of which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

What Is Not Special about Crystal lake

Winters are cold, real estate taxes are high. Boating on the lake has been tied up in controversies.

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Who Will Like Retirement in Crystal lake

People who want to stay in Illinois but live in the suburbs near a nice lake might like it in Crystal Lake.

Local Economy Is Driven by

This is  a suburban economy but it also has some larger employers here in the city.

Climate and Physical Environment

About 50 miles from Chicago. Average low is just below 20 degrees F.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

The historic downtown has some interesting shops and restaurants. Raue Center for the Performing Arts seats 750 and performs plays and hosts concerts. Raue Center provides an annual Jazz Festival. Nearby Chicago is of course a national arts center.

Crime

Crime rate is about  a third of the national average.

Medical facilities

There are 3 hospitals within 10 miles - in Barrington, McHenry, and Woodstock.

Transportation

Metra Rail Union Pacific offers commuter rail service to Chicago. O'Hare Airport, one of the largest in the world, is 50 miles.

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