About 40 miles north of Chicago, Zion is home to over 24,000 residents and connects to a rich history that continues to shape its identity today. Founded in 1901 by evangelist John Alexander Dowie, the city was planned as a religious utopia, with streets named after biblical figures.
While Zion evolved beyond its original vision, landmarks such as Shiloh House and community events such as the Jubilee Days Festival reflect its past. The city tells a tale of transformation — century-old architecture stands alongside modern developments, and a diverse population mirrors Zion's growth from one man's singular vision to a thriving community.
Zion shows its century old history in this clock at Veterans Memorial Park in Central Zion.
The Zion Historical Society hosts a Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair at Shiloh House in Zion.
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Zion offers diverse, affordable home styles
Zion’s housing market is affordable compared to the greater Chicago metro area, with a median home price of $233,000. While lower than the national median, prices have increased in recent years. According to Courtney Caraway, managing broker at Gallery Realty Inc., Zion offers options that attract both first-time buyers and those looking to upgrade.
The city features several distinct neighborhoods. Beulah Park is known for its tree-lined streets and proximity to Illinois Beach State Park on the shores of Lake Michigan. Central Zion reflects the city’s history, with early 20th-century homes and modern renovations. South Central Zion offers newer developments and larger lots.
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, Zion reports violent and property crime rates below national averages.
There are a variety of home styles in Central Zion including Cape Cod and traditional.
Beulah Park has many single story ranch style homes, each with their own character.
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Public and private education choices in Zion
Zion Elementary School District 6 scores a C on Niche, while Zion-Benton Township High School District 126 has a B-minus grade. The Zee-Bees athletic teams compete in the North Suburban Conference's football, basketball, soccer, volleyball and track and field programs.
For higher education, the College of Lake County’s Lakeshore Campus offers associate degrees and workforce training. Zion is also home to Shoreland Lutheran High School, which has an A-minus grade on Niche, and Our Savior’s Lutheran School, a Pre-Kindergarten through 8th-grade private school.
Zion-Benton Township High School has approximately 2200 students.
The College of Lake County’s Lakeshore Campus provides workforce training and degrees.
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Illinois Beach State Park protects endangered wildlife
One of Zion’s biggest draws is Illinois Beach State Park, a 6-mile stretch along Lake Michigan with hiking trails, fishing areas and wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot grasshopper sparrows, Brewer’s blackbirds and migrating warblers. Anglers can catch largemouth bass and bluegill, and with over 650 plant species, the park protects more than 60 threatened or endangered species.
Beyond the lakefront, Shiloh Park features sports fields, playgrounds and picnic areas, while Shiloh Park Golf Course offers an 18-hole course. Adjacent to the park is Shiloh House, the 25-room mansion built by Zion’s founder. Today, it serves as the headquarters for the Zion Historical Society.
The city’s proximity to Lake Michigan also moderates its climate, offering cool breezes in the summer and milder winters than inland areas.
Take a stroll along Isherwood Beach in North Dunes Nature Preserve near Kendron Park.
Grab a friend and tee off at the Shiloh Park Golf Course, near Hermon.
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Diverse dining and shopping on Sheridan Road
Zion has a mix of local restaurants and national chains. It’s All Good Coffee & Espresso is a popular café. El Lago specializes in Mexican cuisine, and Captain Porky’s is known for its seafood and barbecue. Shopping is concentrated along Sheridan Road and Green Bay Road.
Community events are central to Zion’s culture, and the Jubilee Days Festival is one of the city’s most anticipated traditions. Held every Labor Day weekend, the festival features a parade that winds through the heart of Zion, live music, food vendors and fireworks. Caraway says it gives “residents a chance to gather on Sheridan Road and enjoy their neighbors.”
It’s All Good Coffee is a popular spot along Sheridan Road in Zion to chat with friends.
Healthyums is a popular family run health conscious cafe in West Zion, along Sheridan Road.
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Metra access and major highways to Chicago
Zion’s location offers convenient access to Chicago, with U.S. Route 41 and Interstate 94 providing direct routes to the city. The Zion Metra station on the Union Pacific North Line connects commuters to Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Local roads such as Sheridan Road, Green Bay Road and 21st Street link neighborhoods and commercial areas. While public transportation options are limited, most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting and errands.
Zion’s economy is bolstered by major employers such as the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), alongside a robust manufacturing and retail sector.
Crime
Data from the FBI shows that larceny, burglary, and general violent crime were the most common reports in the city in 2019. The local police force is split into four districts that are divided between major streets on the city’s east and west sides.
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