Southwest Aurora, Aurora,IL

Southwest Aurora offers a welcoming community vibe perfect for those looking to settle in a lively yet comfortable neighborhood. This part of Aurora is known for its diverse population, friendly neighbors, and a range of housing options that cater to families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the standout attractions in this area is the Phillips Park Zoo, a charming little zoo that is especially popular with families and kids. It’s a great place to spend a weekend afternoon, enjoying the animals and the beautiful park grounds. Additionally, residents here appreciate the nearby Phillips Park Golf Course, which offers a great spot for golf enthusiasts to practice their swing without having to travel far from home.

For those who enjoy shopping and dining out, Southwest Aurora has plenty to offer. The area is dotted with local eateries that serve up everything from classic American comfort food to international cuisine, reflecting the neighborhood's cultural diversity. Nearby shopping centers provide convenient access to everyday essentials, and there are also several community events held throughout the year that bring neighbors together and foster a strong sense of belonging. Families will find schools nearby that are well-regarded, with several options for both public and private education. This makes the neighborhood especially attractive for those relocating with children.

One of the biggest perks of living in Southwest Aurora is its proximity to Downtown Aurora, which is just about a 15 to 20-minute drive away, depending on traffic. This means residents can easily enjoy the vibrant downtown scene, including the Paramount Theatre, local breweries, and a variety of shops and entertainment options. Commuters will also appreciate access to major highways and public transportation, making it convenient to get to Chicago or other employment hubs in the region. Overall, Southwest Aurora strikes a wonderful balance between suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it a great choice for anyone moving to the Aurora area.

In Southwest Aurora, 29% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 29% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Southwest Aurora demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,894 residents, Southwest Aurora is notably smaller than many other Aurora neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Southwest Aurora has a population density of 2,211, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Aurora neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 38, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Southwest Aurora crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Southwest Aurora, the median home price is $195,744, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Southwest Aurora can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,308, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Southwest Aurora combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Southwest Aurora can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.