York is a city located about 50 miles southwest of Chicago in Kendall County, Illinois, United States. According to the Wikipedia page for York, the population was 18,520 at the 2020 census, making it the 197th most populous city in Illinois.
Population and Demographics
The population of York has grown rapidly in recent years. Since the 2000 census, the population has more than tripled as the Chicago metropolitan area expands further from the city center. Once a small farming town, York has seen an influx of families and businesses relocating to the area.
The racial makeup of York is predominantly white at about 90% of the population. Hispanics make up the largest minority group at just under 10%. The median age is 34.5 years old with over 30% of the population under the age of 18.
York public schools are part of York Community Unit School District 115 which operates 10 schools in the area including 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, 2 high schools, and an early childhood center.
Economy and Major Employers
While York originated as an agricultural community, today’s economy is driven by a mix of industries. Many residents commute into Chicago for work while others are employed locally by major companies and organizations.
Some of the largest employers in York include:
- Raging Waves Waterpark – Amusement park
- York School District 115 – Public schools
- DT Constructions – Construction company
- Senior Services of Northern Illinois – Non-profit senior services
- Woodberry Market – Grocery store
- York City Government – Municipal jobs
- Heyde Sewer and Plumbing – Plumbing company
Other major industries in York include healthcare, retail, food service, and manufacturing. The York Economic Development Corporation works to promote local business growth and attract new companies to the area.
Attractions and Things to Do
Some of the most popular attractions and activities in York include:
- Hometown Days Festival – Summer festival with carnival rides, food, and live music
- Raging Waves Waterpark – Large outdoor waterpark with over 40 slides and attractions
- Jaycees Park – Park with baseball fields, playgrounds, fishing pond, and walking paths
- White Pelican State Fish Hatchery – Hatchery with trails and educational exhibits
- Blackberry Farm – Living history museum depicting 19th century life
- Fox River Trail – Scenic hiking and biking along the Fox River waterway
- Bristol-Kendall Fire Protection District Museum – Small museum at the town’s fire station
- Downtown York – Shops, restaurants, and seasonal events in the downtown district
The York area also offers golfing, bowling, escape rooms, gun ranges, parks, and other recreational activities. The town hosts seasonal events and festivals throughout the year.
Sports
York is home to several athletic teams across different sports. The most notable is likely the York Foxes, the local high school sports teams. The York Foxes compete in the Northern Illinois Big 12 Conference across 14 different sports programs.
Popular York Foxes teams include:
- Football
- Volleyball
- Basketball
- Baseball
- Soccer
- Wrestling
In addition to school sports, York has community leagues and programs for youth sports like soccer, football, basketball, and baseball.
Location and Transportation
York is located about 12 miles southwest of Aurora, Illinois and 50 miles southwest of Chicago. The town is situated along several major transportation routes.
Key highways include:
- Illinois Route 47
- U.S. Route 34
- Illinois Route 71
The Metra commuter rail also services the York area with a station stop in downtown York on the BNSF Railway Line.
Living in York
York offers a small town atmosphere yet convenient access to larger suburbs and the Chicago metropolitan area. The historic downtown district along with ample parks and recreation facilities make it a popular place to live, work, and raise a family.
Housing options range from affordable apartments to luxurious new construction homes in the expanding subdivisions. The area is served by York Community Unit School District 115 for public education. Several options for private schools are also available.
Crime rates are relatively low and York has been recognized as one of the safest cities in Illinois. The town maintains a family-friendly culture with community events and activities year round.