Mount Prospect IL

Mount Prospect – A friendly village with a big heart, Mount Prospect blends small-town charm with suburban convenience just 20 miles northwest of Chicago. Known for its tree-lined streets, welcoming neighborhoods, and vibrant community spirit, this Illinois gem offers the perfect setting for families, professionals, and anyone looking for a quieter pace without straying too far from city life. Whether you're strolling through downtown boutiques, enjoying summer concerts in the park, or exploring its rich local history, Mount Prospect makes it easy to feel right at home.

• Population: ~56,000
• Weather: All four seasons; cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers (20–85°F)
• Places To Visit: Randhurst Village, Mount Prospect Historical Society, Capannari Ice Cream, Melas Park, River Trails Nature Center
• Top Activities: Family picnics at the park, summer festivals, ice skating in winter, supporting local businesses downtown, nature walks along the Des Plaines River
• Famous Food: Deep-dish pizza at local spots, classic Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, homemade scoops from Capannari’s

Mount Prospect, IL, located just northwest of Chicago, is a thriving suburban community known for its strong local economy and access to regional job markets. With major sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and education, the village offers a variety of stable and rewarding career paths. Below are the top 5 jobs in Mount Prospect that are currently in high demand.

Mount Prospect might be a quiet suburb, but that doesn’t mean students don’t have awesome places to hang out, have fun, and take a break from the daily grind. Whether you want to sip coffee, shoot hoops, enjoy nature, or unwind with a group of friends, this town offers some surprisingly cool options.

Capannari Ice Cream – This local gem is more than just a scoop shop. With a chill outdoor patio and award-winning flavors, it’s the perfect spot to meet friends after school or reward yourself after a long study session. Their seasonal events and games on the lawn add to the fun.

Central Community Center – Great for students looking to be active or just hang out indoors. With an indoor gym, games, and programs, it's a safe and dynamic place to stay busy and meet others your age.

Friendship Park Conservatory – If you're craving a dose of nature and some peace and quiet, this is the place to go. Stroll through the walking path, relax with a book, or just chill under the trees. Perfect for solo reflection or low-key hangouts with friends.

Black and Gray Brewing Co. (Non-Alcoholic Nights) – While it’s a brewery, they host community events and live music nights perfect for older students (18+) looking for a non-party social scene. Check their calendar for trivia, board game nights, and live acoustic sets—cool vibes, zero pressure.

Randhurst Village – This open-air shopping center offers everything students could want for a mini escape: a movie theater, fast food, fun shops, and lots of Instagram-worthy spots. It’s great for weekend hangouts and random weekday wind-downs.

Burning Bush Trails – For students who prefer outdoor activities, these peaceful walking trails are perfect for getting some exercise, clearing your head, or catching up with a friend while enjoying the scenery.

Prospect Park Tennis & Basketball Courts – Whether you're into competitive matches or just want to shoot some hoops, this local park brings the energy. It’s a go-to spot for groups of students who want to stay active and socialize at the same time.

Mount Prospect Public Library – Believe it or not, this is more than just a study destination. With quiet reading rooms, teen programs, and cool projects throughout the year, the library is a cozy place to grow your interests and meet like-minded people.

Mr. Allison’s Restaurant – A classic spot for gathering over pancakes or milkshakes. This retro-style diner is friendly, casual, and full of comfort food that hits the spot—especially after a tough exam week.

Whether you’re looking to unwind solo, hang out with your besties, or just try something different, Mount Prospect has low-key gems that students can enjoy without traveling far. The key is to explore and make the most of the chill spaces around you!

Mount Prospect, IL is a vibrant suburb of Chicago that puts students and lifelong learners within easy reach of some of the finest colleges and universities in the state. The area is well-served by both public and private institutions, offering a wide range of programs in fields such as healthcare, business, engineering, liberal arts, and more. Whether you are just starting your college search or looking for career-focused programs, you’ll find plenty of strong options nearby.

Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Mount Prospect

Harper College – Located right in nearby Palatine, Harper College is a leading community college known for its excellent academic transfer programs, career certificates, and workforce training. Students appreciate the affordable tuition and close community feel.

University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) – A highly respected public research university, UIC offers more than 250 degree programs. It's particularly well-known for its medical, engineering, business, and health sciences programs. Just a quick train ride from Mount Prospect!

Northeastern Illinois University – This public institution in Chicago is recognized for its diverse student body, affordable tuition, and strong programs in education, business, and the liberal arts.

Oakton College – With campuses in nearby Des Plaines and Skokie, Oakton College serves thousands of students with associate degrees and certificate programs. It’s a great option for local students looking to transfer or gain work-ready skills.

Northern Illinois University (NIU) – Located a bit further out in DeKalb, NIU is a large public university offering a wide selection of undergraduate and graduate programs known for their value, including strong education, business, and engineering departments.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Mount Prospect

DePaul University – As the largest Catholic university in the U.S., DePaul in Chicago is famous for its excellence in business, communications, computing, and performing arts. Its urban campus and internship opportunities attract students from all backgrounds.

Loyola University Chicago – A highly respected Jesuit institution, Loyola offers strong programs in nursing, law, social work, business, and health sciences. Its commitment to service and social justice is highly valued by students and families.

Northwestern University – Just a short drive to Evanston, Northwestern is a world-class private research university, renowned for programs in journalism, engineering, law, and business. Its faculty and student achievements are second to none.

Dominican University – Located in nearby River Forest, Dominican is known for its small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and strong programs in business, education, and the arts. Its supportive environment helps students thrive.

Elmhurst University – Situated in Elmhurst, this private university offers in-demand programs in nursing, health sciences, business, and education. Students benefit from personal attention and strong connections to Chicago’s workforce.

No matter your interests or goals, colleges and universities around Mount Prospect, IL offer outstanding opportunities for learning and success. From world-class research institutions to student-focused liberal arts colleges, you’ll find a perfect fit right nearby.

Mount Prospect, IL is a vibrant suburban community just northwest of Chicago, known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and excellent schools. Whether you're a parent looking for the right educational environment for your child or a student preparing for the next chapter, Mount Prospect offers top-tier high schools that provide strong academics, dedicated faculty, and supportive communities. Here’s a look at the top public and private high schools serving Mount Prospect students.

Top Public High Schools in Mount Prospect, IL

• Prospect High School – Located right in Mount Prospect, this high-performing school is part of Township High School District 214. It boasts a strong college prep curriculum, award-winning arts programs, and competitive athletics. With a focus on student growth and community involvement, Prospect is a standout choice.
• John Hersey High School – Though located in nearby Arlington Heights, John Hersey High serves many students from Mount Prospect. Known for its inclusive environment and strong academics, the school offers numerous AP and honors courses, and has been recognized for excellence in special education programs.
• Buffalo Grove High School – Also a part of District 214, this school serves students from the surrounding area, including sections of Mount Prospect. It offers a wide range of extracurricular options and advanced coursework in both STEM and humanities, helping students prepare for diverse career paths.
• Rolling Meadows High School – This diverse and welcoming school sits just minutes from Mount Prospect. Rolling Meadows is well-regarded for its business and finance programs, as well as its strong emphasis on career and technical education alongside traditional academics.
• Elk Grove High School – A short drive from Mount Prospect, Elk Grove High is known for its innovative learning spaces and strong support services. The school focuses on preparing students for college and beyond with a wide range of electives, AP classes, and career-focused programming.

Top Private High Schools Near Mount Prospect, IL

• Saint Viator High School, Arlington Heights – This co-ed Catholic college-prep school offers a values-based education rooted in the Viatorian tradition. With a strong focus on service, leadership, and academics, Saint Viator consistently ranks as one of the best private schools in the northwest suburbs.
• Christian Liberty Academy, Arlington Heights – Just a few miles from Mount Prospect, this private Christian school provides a faith-based curriculum for students from preschool through high school. It’s praised for its small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and well-rounded programs.
• Notre Dame College Prep, Niles – A top all-boys Catholic high school, Notre Dame Prep offers rigorous academics alongside strong athletic and extracurricular programs. It’s known for fostering leadership and character development in a supportive, values-driven environment.
• Ida Crown Jewish Academy, Skokie – While a bit farther away, this Orthodox Jewish high school serves families from Mount Prospect and beyond. It provides a dual curriculum of Judaic and general studies in a nurturing, student-focused setting.
• Islamic Foundation School, Villa Park – One of the leading Islamic schools in the area, IFS offers a values-centered education in a diverse, inclusive environment. With an emphasis on academic excellence and spiritual growth, it’s a popular choice for families seeking a faith-based education.

Whether families are looking for strong academic preparation, spiritual development, or a supportive community, Mount Prospect and its surrounding areas offer a range of high-quality high school options. With experienced educators and tailored programs, these schools are committed to helping every student thrive.

Mount Prospect, Illinois may not have its own major professional sports teams, but it sits in the heart of a sports-loving region that thrives on the passion, pride, and success of nearby Chicago's iconic franchises. Locals in Mount Prospect regularly support and follow teams that have made national headlines and built championship legacies, just a short drive or train ride away.

Basketball – Chicago Bulls (NBA)

• Chicago Bulls – One of the NBA's most recognized and celebrated teams, the Bulls rose to global fame in the 1990s thanks to the legendary Michael Jordan. The team captured six NBA championships (1991–1993, 1996–1998) under coach Phil Jackson. Though they haven’t won a title since then, stars like Derrick Rose and Zach LaVine have kept the city hopeful.

Baseball – Chicago Cubs & Chicago White Sox (MLB)

• Chicago Cubs – Known for their incredible fan base and historic Wrigley Field, the Cubs stunned the world in 2016 when they won their first championship in 108 years. That World Series victory turned the North Side of Chicago—and Mount Prospect—into a citywide celebration.
• Chicago White Sox – Representing the South Side, the White Sox have also made their mark. They broke their own championship drought by winning the 2005 World Series, their first since 1917. Players like Frank Thomas, Paul Konerko, and modern hero José Abreu have excited fans over the years.

Football – Chicago Bears (NFL)

• Chicago Bears – One of the oldest and most storied franchises in NFL history, the Bears have a deep-rooted fan base that includes many loyal followers in Mount Prospect. They’ve won nine championships, including one Super Bowl in 1985 with the legendary Walter Payton and the "Monsters of the Midway" defense. Their iconic home at Soldier Field buzzes with fans every Sunday during football season.

Hockey – Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)

• Chicago Blackhawks – Hockey pride runs deep in Mount Prospect, thanks to the Blackhawks’ thrilling style of play and dominant years. They’ve captured six Stanley Cup titles, with an incredible run in the 2010s that saw championships in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Stars like Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, and Duncan Keith made them one of the decade's greatest teams.

Soccer – Chicago Fire FC (MLS) & Chicago Red Stars (NWSL)

• Chicago Fire FC – Playing in Major League Soccer, the Fire won their lone MLS Cup in 1998—their expansion season! Though expectations were high early on, the team continues to develop a strong soccer culture in the region, energizing fans in suburban communities like Mount Prospect.
• Chicago Red Stars – Champions of women’s professional soccer in Chicago, the Red Stars have played in multiple playoff runs and have had household names like Julie Ertz and Alyssa Naeher. With growing support, the team represents grit and women’s athletic achievement in Illinois.

While Mount Prospect may not have a team calling it home, it certainly shares in the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of nearby Chicago's professional sports scene. From thrilling playoff wins to unforgettable championship parades, sports are a major part of life in this proud Illinois suburb.

Mount Prospect, Illinois may seem like a quiet suburb of Chicago, but it’s full of charm, character, and surprising stories that make it worth exploring. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, here are 10 fun facts about this vibrant Midwestern community:

1. Hollywood Came Calling – Mount Prospect was featured in the 1983 cult favorite Risky Business starring Tom Cruise. Some neighborhood scenes were filmed right here!
2. Library Powerhouse – The Mount Prospect Public Library is one of the busiest in the state, offering way more than books — think tech classes, movies, art exhibits, and even 3D printing.
3. Village Origins – Mount Prospect was officially incorporated in 1917, but its roots go back to the 1800s when it was just a small farming settlement on the railroad line.
4. Tree City USA – The village has been recognized as a “Tree City USA” for over 30 years. That means strong community commitment to urban forestry and keeping the town green and leafy!
5. Home of Mrs. Butterworth – OK, not exactly... but the iconic syrup bottler, Dean Foods, once operated nearby, and Mount Prospect has long been connected to food and manufacturing history.
6. Downtown with Small-Town Charm – The village’s downtown area blends vintage architecture, local boutiques, cozy coffee spots, and modern development — all within walking distance of the Metra station.
7. Safety First – Mount Prospect consistently ranks as one of the safest places to live in Illinois, according to multiple annual rankings and local police reports.
8. The Mount That Wasn’t – Despite the name, there’s no actual “Mount” in Mount Prospect. Its name came from a hopeful early settler who thought the community had a “promising prospect.”
9. School Pride – Mount Prospect’s schools, including Prospect High School, are known for strong academics, championship sports, and outstanding music programs.
10. Festivals Galore – From the Mount Prospect Downtown Block Party to fall fests and farmer’s markets, this village knows how to throw a celebration that brings the whole community together.