Niles is a village in Cook County, Illinois, United States with a population of over 29,000 residents as of the 2020 census. Located directly north of Chicago, Niles straddles the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway.
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 census, Niles had a population of 29,717. Niles is considered part of the Greater Chicago metropolitan area. It has a diverse population made up of the following racial demographics:
- White: 49.8%
- Asian: 33.0%
- Hispanic or Latino: 9.0%
- Black or African American: 3.4%
- Two or more races: 3.1%
- Other race: 1.7%
The median age in Niles is 42.8 years old. The village has a fairly even gender split with 49.5% male and 50.5% female residents.
Niles Economy and Major Employers
Niles has a strong local economy with several major employers. Top companies headquartered in Niles include:
- Nikon Americas – US headquarters
- Wirtz Beverage Illinois – alcoholic beverage distributor
- Panasonic Corporation of North America – technology company offices
Other major Niles employers are in the healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, and service industries. The village has a healthy local economy with low unemployment. Niles’ convenient location near Chicago and O’Hare International Airport also makes it attractive to businesses.
Attractions and Things to Do in Niles
Niles has plenty of attractions and activities for residents and visitors to enjoy:
- Tam-O’Shanter Golf Course – renowned public golf course
- Fountain Blue Banquet and Convention Center – event venue
- Leaning Tower of Niles – replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Restaurants – Niles has a variety of cuisine from Thai, Indian, Italian, and more
- Golf Mill Shopping Center – mall with over 100 stores
- Niles Public Library – public library with events and services
- Museums – Niles Historical Society Museum and Niles Police Department Museum
The village hosts several annual events such as the Niles Summer Fest in July and the Leaning Tower YMCA Turkey Trot run on Thanksgiving. There are also year-round opportunities for biking, walking, and nature activities at spots like Tam Golf Course and Oakton Park.
Sports
Niles is home to the Niles Township High School District 219 which has two high schools – Niles West High School and Niles North High School. Both schools have sports teams that compete in the Central Suburban League conference. Popular sports include football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, wrestling, swimming, baseball, softball, and more.
The village also has several youth sports leagues such as Niles Baseball League, Niles Soccer League, and Niles Youth Football & Cheer. Adults can join recreational leagues and classes through the Niles Fitness Center.
Niles Village Government
Niles has a Council-Manager form of government. The village president and six council members are elected to represent residents. The day-to-day operations are handled by a professional village manager appointed by the council. You can learn more about Niles’ elected officials, services, and departments on the official village website.
Residents can also connect with the village on Facebook and Twitter to stay informed about local news and events.