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Naperville

city

Naperville, Illinois, is a vibrant city located in both DuPage and Will counties, approximately 28 miles west of Chicago. Founded in 1831 by Joseph Naper, it began as Naper's Settlement along the DuPage River. Today, Naperville is the fourth-largest city in Illinois, with a population of approximately 154,969 in 2026. Known for its high quality of life, Naperville boasts nationally acclaimed schools, a top-rated public library system, and a low crime rate. Naperville's economy is diverse, with major employment sectors including healthcare, technology, retail, and education. Several national and multinational companies have established corporate headquarters in the city, contributing to its strong economic environment. Edward Hospital is the city's largest employer. Naperville is also part of the Illinois Technology and Research Corridor. Naperville offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The Naperville Riverwalk, a scenic path along the DuPage River, is a popular attraction. The city's extensive park system and recreational opportunities, including Centennial Beach and the Millennium Carillon, enhance its appeal as a desirable place to live.

Naperville, Illinois

Overview
Classification
City
Country
United States
County
DuPage / Will
Geography
Region
Northeastern Illinois
Elevation
709 ft
Total Area
39.68 sq mi
Land Area
39.1 sq mi
Water Area
0.59 sq mi
Latitude
41.7503
Longitude
-88.1536
Climate
Humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters.
Notable Features
DuPage River · Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve · Greene Valley Hill
Neighboring Areas
Aurora · Lisle · Woodridge · Wheaton · Downers Grove
Demographics
Population (2020)
149,540
Est. Population (2026)
154,969
Median Age
40.4
Median Income
$155,105
Poverty Rate
4.45%
Family Households
73.9%
Owner-Occupied
74.3%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
62.84% White, 22.45% Asian, 4.32% Black or African American, 7.59% Hispanic or Latino
Governance
Government Type
Mayor-Council
Governing Body
City Council
Body Size
8 members
School District
Naperville Community Unit School District 203, Indian Prairie School District 204
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation · Library
Economy
Economic Profile
Residential/suburban · Commercial
Employment Sectors
Healthcare · Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services · Retail Trade · Education
Major Employers
Edward Hospital · Nokia · BP · Ineos · Calamos · Nicor · Mondelez International
Education
Students
16,000
School Districts
Naperville Community Unit School District 203 · Indian Prairie School District 204
Colleges & Universities
North Central College · Northern Illinois University - Naperville Campus · College of DuPage - Naperville Center
Infrastructure
Transportation
Interstate access · Metra Rail · Pace Bus · Bike trails
Utilities
Municipal water · Municipal power · Fiber/broadband
Major Facilities
Endeavor Health Edward Hospital · Naperville Municipal Airport
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Naperville Riverwalk · Centennial Beach · Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve · Knoch Knolls Nature Center
Parks & Trails
Naperville Park District (over 2,400 acres) · DuPage River Trail
History
Founded
1831
Incorporated
1857
Named After
Joseph Naper
Historical Significance
One of the oldest communities in DuPage County, grew from a small settlement to a major suburban city.
Key Events
Founded by Joseph Naper in 1831 · Became DuPage County seat in 1839 · Experienced population boom in the 1960s-1990s · 1996 Flood