Local Economy: We are a growing community at the center of commerce and transportation.Location: 15 square miles located 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago with close proximity to O'Hare International Airport and convenient access to interstates and rail. We have a vibrant downtown with dining and entertainment, plenty of free parking and easy access to a Metra train. We have many welcoming and friendly, affordable neighborhoods, as well as high-rise condos with all the amenities right outside their doorstep.We are a safe, diverse community made up of people from many different countries and cultures. Population: More than 60,000 residents ( as of the 2020 U.S.Our City has been recognized as a Better Business Town (2021), a Best Place to Live (35 out of 100, 2017) and a Best Place to Retire (one of 8 in the U.S., 2018). We are home to award-winning schools and parks, beautiful walking and biking trails, friendly neighborhoods, community festivals, more than 100 diverse restaurants, a vibrant downtown with a recently-renovated historic theatre featuring live entertainment and so much more! Des Plaines is also home to a world-class gaming experience and excellent dining at Rivers Casino. Thank you for your interest in exploring our city, whether you live here, work here, play here, or want to come for a visit!