Worth is a village located in Cook County, Illinois, United States. According to the 2020 census, the population of Worth was 10,834. Worth was first incorporated as a village in 1917. The village has a total area of 2.42 square miles, all land.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Worth had a population of 10,834 people. The racial makeup of Worth is 76.3% White, 3.2% African American, 0.3% Native American, 2.9% Asian, 13.8% from other races, and 3.5% from two or more races. 23.1% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race.
The median age in Worth is 34.5 years. The gender makeup is 50.1% male and 49.9% female. The most common ancestries in Worth are Polish (19.2%), German (18.9%), Italian (18.8%), Irish (12.5%), Mexican (4.3%).
Worth has seen steady population growth since its incorporation in 1917. Some key population stats:
- 1930 census: 1,583 people
- 1960 census: 5,273 people
- 1990 census: 9,580 people
- 2010 census: 10,792 people
For more information on Worth’s demographics, check out the Worth Wikipedia page.
History of Worth
The history of Worth dates back to the early 1800s when the area was still prairie land. In the 1830s and 1840s, Dutch, German and Luxembourgian immigrants began settling in the area, farming the land. The main village of Worth sprouted up around the intersection of Oak Park Ave and 111th Street.
Worth was incorporated as a village in 1917. The village was named after General William Jenkins Worth, a commander during the Mexican-American War. Incorporation allowed Worth to provide municipal services to residents and control local zoning and development.
Significant moments in Worth history:
- 1832 – First settler Charles M. Thurber arrives
- 1850s – Influx of Dutch, German and Luxembourgian immigrants
- 1874 – St. Louis – Chicago Railway is built through town
- 1917 – Worth is incorporated as a village
- 1960s – Residential and commercial development booms
- 1990s – Worth modernizes infrastructure and recreation
To learn more about the history of Worth, visit the Worth village history page.
Economy and Major Employers
The major industries providing employment in Worth are manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and retail trade. Some of the largest employers in Worth include:
- Advocate Christ Medical Center – hospital
- ArcelorMittal – steel manufacturer
- Chicago Rail Link – railway company
- Grocers Supply – food distributor
- Ozinga Bros – concrete and building materials
- Walmart Supercenter – retail
Other notable companies based in Worth include Allied Tube & Conduit, Citizens Bank, and Maclean-Fogg.
The unemployment rate in Worth is around 5%. The median household income is $67,500, slightly higher than the national median. Most residents commute to jobs in nearby Chicago.
For more on the Worth economy and job market, check out the Worth economy data.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Worth include:
- Worth Park District – Operates parks, trails, the community center, pool, and recreation programs. Major parks include Commissioners Park and Gale Moore Park.
- Centennial Park – Large village park featuring baseball diamonds, playgrounds, and a sprayground.
- Worth Water Tower – Historic limestone water tower built in 1927.
- Children’s Farm at the Center – Petting zoo, pony rides, and educational programs.
- Sundown Meadow Forest Preserve – Over 200 acres with trails, wildlife, and equestrian facilities.
Be sure to also check out the Worth Facebook page to keep up with community events and happenings.
Sports
Worth has one high school, Worth Junior High School (Go Mustangs!), which competes in the Metro Suburban Conference. Popular sports include football, basketball, soccer, baseball, and volleyball.
The village is also home to several youth athletic leagues and clubs, such as:
Worth also has a bowling alley, golf course, indoor sports complex, and several parks and fields that host local adult sports leagues and tournaments.
Tourism
Worth draws in some tourism due to its close proximity to Chicago. Worth’s small-town charm, parks, and family attractions make it a nice destination for a day trip from Chicago. Some popular tourist activities include:
- Visiting the Children’s Farm at the Center petting zoo
- Hiking and biking on the trails at Sundown Meadow Forest Preserve
- Playing a round of golf at St. Andrews Golf & Country Club
- Catching a show at the Worth’s Grand Pavilion
- Trying local dining options and shopping along 111th Street
The Worth Chamber of Commerce provides listings and resources for businesses and visitors.
Living in Worth
Worth provides a small town atmosphere while still being close to big city amenities. Worth has highly rated schools, safe neighborhoods, local businesses, and a vibrant community. The village offers many family-friendly activities through the Worth Park District.
Housing ranges from historic downtown homes to suburban developments. The median home value is around $265,000. Worth has seen growth in recent years, with new homes, townhouses, retail, and apartment complexes being constructed.
Worth is located just 23 miles from downtown Chicago, providing residents with easy access to the city. Several major highways including Interstate 294 run through the town.
Residents enjoy quality village services, low property taxes, excellent parks and recreation, and a great sense of community. Worth offers the perks of suburbia with its own unique charm and identity.