Algonquin is a city located in McHenry County and Kane County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 30,176 residents, making it one of the larger suburbs of Chicago.
Population and Demographics
According to the latest census data, Algonquin has grown rapidly in recent decades. The population has increased by over 45% since 2000, when there were 20,732 residents. Much of this growth can be attributed to the city’s proximity to major highways and suburban Chicago job centers, as well as its good schools, parks and recreation facilities.
The racial makeup of Algonquin is predominantly white (nearly 80%), with Hispanic/Latino residents making up over 10% of the population. Asian, Black and multiracial individuals each represent around 2-3% of residents. The median age is 36.7 years old, with over 27% of the population under the age of 18.
Economy and Major Employers
Algonquin has a strong local economy, with major employers in various industries. Some of the top companies with headquarters or major operations in Algonquin include:
- Panduit – Maker of networking infrastructure and industrial electrical wiring products
- DuraLabel – Manufacturer of digital label printers and blank labels
- Foodiecolour – Supplier of natural food colors and ingredients
- Algonquin State Bank – Local community bank with over $400 million in assets
- DCI Marketing – Provider of mailing services, data management and printing
In addition, Algonquin has many national retail chains and restaurants located along Randall Road, the city’s main commercial corridor. Major shopping centers include Algonquin Commons and Woods Creek Center.
The unemployment rate in Algonquin is around 5%, lower than the national average. The economy features a mix of manufacturing, technology, retail, finance and healthcare employers providing stable local jobs.
Popular Landmarks and Attractions
Some of the most popular landmarks and attractions in Algonquin include:
- Algonquin Historic Village Hall – The original Algonquin village hall built in 1902, now a museum.
- Raging Buffalo Snow Park – Indoor snowboard and ski facility with terrain parks.
- Algonquin Commons – Large outdoor shopping center with stores, restaurants and entertainment.
- Gaslight Park – Picturesque park along the Fox River with walking paths.
- Tempel Farms Golf Course – Highly rated 18-hole public golf course.
Algonquin’s natural areas and parks are also popular recreation spots. The Prairie Trail runs through the city, connecting cyclists and pedestrians to nature preserves, forests and the Fox River.
Sports Teams and Activities
Residents of Algonquin have several sports teams to root for at the local high schools, as well as opportunities for youth and adult recreational sports.
The Algonquin Tomahawks are the local high school football, basketball, volleyball and other teams competing in the Fox Valley Conference. The Jacobs High School Golden Eagles also field competitive teams in many sports.
Popular youth sports leagues in Algonquin include soccer, baseball, football, basketball, gymnastics and more. Adults can join recreational leagues for sports like soccer, sand volleyball, basketball, softball and hockey.
Outdoor activities like golf, swimming, boating, fishing and biking are also widely enjoyed given the city’s natural amenities like the Fox River and Prairie Trail.
City Government
Algonquin has a Council-Manager form of municipal government. The city council consists of a mayor and six council members who appoint a professional city manager to oversee day-to-day operations.
The Algonquin City Council meets regularly and residents can access meeting schedules, agendas, minutes and videos online. The city government provides a full range of services including police, fire, public works, recreation programs, building permits, and more.
Residents seeking information or assistance from the city can visit the City of Algonquin website or contact the main line at (847) 658-2700.
Things to Do
Some of the top things to do in Algonquin for visitors and residents include:
- Shopping and dining at Algonquin Commons, Woods Creek Center and downtown Algonquin.
- Using the recreational trails for walking, running or biking.
- Trying snowboarding or downhill skiing at Raging Buffalo Snow Park.
- Playing a round of golf at Crystal Tree Golf Club or Tempel Farms.
- Attending community events like Founders’ Days, the Algonquin Art Fair and more.
- Visiting the Algonquin Historic Village Hall and managed forest preserves.
- Boating, kayaking or fishing on the Fox River.
With its natural beauty, recreation opportunities, good schools, and business-friendly environment, Algonquin offers an attractive suburb in which to live, work, and raise a family.