Cicero, IL

Cicero, IL is a historic suburb just west of Chicago with a colorful past and deep cultural roots. From legendary figures to famous filming spots, Cicero has more to offer than meets the eye. Here are 10 fun facts about this fascinating town:

1. Home of Al Capone – Infamous gangster Al Capone moved his operations to Cicero in the 1920s to avoid the Chicago police.
2. Name from Ancient Rome – Cicero is named after the famous Roman statesman Marcus Tullius Cicero.
3. Built on Industry – Cicero grew quickly thanks to major factories like the Western Electric Hawthorne Works, which once employed over 40,000 workers.
4. Historic Labor Spotlight – The 1930s Women’s Labor Strike at the Hawthorne Works brought national attention to workers' rights.
5. Movie Magic – The town has been featured in films like The Untouchables due to its connection with 1920s gangster history.
6. Route 66 Vibes – Cicero sits along the old Route 66, offering a piece of classic American road trip history.
7. Rich Latino Culture – Over 85% of Cicero's population is Latino, making it one of the most vibrant Spanish-speaking communities in the Midwest.
8. Cicero Stadium – This historical venue has hosted everything from boxing matches to professional wrestling events.
9. Tight-Knit Neighborhoods – Cicero is known for its block parties and family festivals that bring the community together year-round.
10. Close to the City – Just a short drive from downtown Chicago, Cicero offers urban access with a small-town vibe.

Cicero, IL is a vibrant suburb of Chicago with a strong working-class history and a diverse economy. The city offers a range of career opportunities, especially in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and education. Below are the top 5 most in-demand jobs in Cicero, based on regional trends and employment data.

Top 5 Jobs in Cicero, IL

Cicero, IL offers quality education opportunities through its public and private high schools, supporting students as they prepare for college, trades, or careers. With a focus on academics, leadership, and personal development, these schools serve the diverse needs of the local community.

Top Public High Schools in Cicero, IL

• J. Sterling Morton East High School – Located in Cicero, this school is known for its comprehensive academic programs, strong extracurriculars, and a commitment to student support and college readiness.
• J. Sterling Morton Freshman Center – Specifically designed for freshmen, this campus helps ease the transition from middle school to high school with targeted academic and social support.
• J. Sterling Morton Alternative School – A smaller learning environment offering alternative education paths and personalized instruction for students who need different support to succeed.
• Unity Junior High School (Feeder school with early HS options) – While primarily a junior high, Unity offers programs that bridge into Morton high schools, helping students prepare for success from an early stage.
• North Riverside Preparatory Campus (part of Morton 201) – This campus works with students to strengthen foundational skills and offers a unique learning environment that supports growth and graduation.

Top Private High Schools Near Cicero, IL

• Fenwick High School, Oak Park – A prestigious Catholic college preparatory school offering rigorous academics, strong athletics, and faith-based education just a few miles from Cicero.
• St. Joseph High School, Westchester – Although recently merged into other institutions, St. Joseph served Cicero families for years and students now benefit from expanded private education networks in nearby areas.
• Holy Trinity High School, Chicago – A private Catholic high school offering individualized attention, STEM programs, and leadership development in a supportive environment.
• Pritzker College Prep, Chicago – Part of the Noble Network, this public charter school with private school-level academic expectations is open to Cicero students and focuses on college preparation.
• De La Salle Institute, Chicago – A highly respected Catholic co-ed school that blends tradition with innovation, offering advanced coursework and mentorship opportunities.

Cicero, Illinois, located just west of downtown Chicago, serves as a hub for students seeking access to some of the region's top colleges and universities. Offering a diverse mix of public and private institutions, the area features strong programs in fields like healthcare, education, technology, and liberal arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Cicero

University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) – Just minutes from Cicero, UIC is a leading public research university known for its outstanding programs in medicine, engineering, public health, and urban planning.

Northeastern Illinois University – Located on Chicago’s Northwest Side, this public university offers strong programs in education, business, and liberal arts, and is known for its commitment to diversity and community engagement.

Triton College – Located in nearby River Grove, Triton is a well-regarded community college offering associate degrees and technical programs. It provides a strong foundation for students planning to transfer to four-year universities.

Harold Washington College (City Colleges of Chicago) – Part of the City Colleges system, this downtown Chicago institution is known for its general education transfer programs and workforce training in business and technology.

Wilbur Wright College (City Colleges of Chicago) – Located on the Northwest Side, it provides high-quality academic and career programs, especially in computer science and health sciences.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Cicero

DePaul University – Chicago’s largest private university, DePaul is known for its programs in business, law, theater, and communications. Its commitment to service and urban education makes it a top choice for students in Cicero and beyond.

Loyola University Chicago – A respected Jesuit institution, Loyola offers nationally ranked programs in nursing, business, law, and social work. The university is also known for its emphasis on ethics and community service.

Saint Xavier University – Located on the South Side of Chicago, Saint Xavier offers a student-focused experience with strong programs in nursing, business, and education. It's one of the oldest Catholic universities in Illinois.

Dominican University – Situated in nearby River Forest, Dominican is a private Catholic institution known for liberal arts, business, and social justice education. It emphasizes small class sizes and personalized learning.

Robert Morris University Illinois (now part of Roosevelt University) – Once an independent university, now part of Roosevelt, it continues to offer strong programs in business, healthcare, and computer science, accessible to Cicero residents through multiple downtown Chicago campuses.

Cicero, Illinois is a suburb of Chicago and does not have its own professional sports teams. However, fans in Cicero are passionate supporters of the many major league teams that call nearby Chicago home. These teams compete in top leagues and contribute to the region's rich sports culture.

🏀 Basketball – Chicago Bulls (NBA)

• Chicago Bulls – The Bulls are one of the most iconic teams in NBA history, thanks to their dynasty in the 1990s led by Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and coach Phil Jackson. The team won six NBA championships (1991–1993, 1996–1998), becoming a global brand and forever changing the game of basketball.

⚾ Baseball – Chicago Cubs & Chicago White Sox (MLB)

• Chicago Cubs – The Cubs are a beloved franchise that ended a 108-year championship drought by winning the World Series in 2016. Their home, Wrigley Field, is one of the most historic ballparks in America.
• Chicago White Sox – The White Sox play on the South Side and have three World Series championships, most recently in 2005. They are known for passionate fans and great players like Frank Thomas and Paul Konerko.

🏈 Football – Chicago Bears (NFL)

• Chicago Bears – One of the oldest franchises in the NFL, the Bears have won nine championships, including the Super Bowl in 1985 with the legendary “Monsters of the Midway” defense. Soldier Field, their lakefront home, is a symbol of football history.

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

• Chicago Fire FC – Founded in 1997, the Fire won the MLS Cup in 1998 and have remained a competitive team in Major League Soccer. They now play at Soldier Field, sharing it with the Bears.
• Chicago Red Stars – One of the founding teams of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the Red Stars are known for their strong rosters, including players like Julie Ertz and Alyssa Naeher. They have made several playoff appearances.

🏒 Hockey – Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)

• Chicago Blackhawks – Part of the NHL’s “Original Six,” the Blackhawks have won six Stanley Cup championships, with recent victories in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Stars like Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, and Duncan Keith helped lead the team during this golden era of success.

Cicero, IL may not be as sprawling as Los Angeles, but it offers a unique charm and a handful of spots where students can unwind, have fun, and simply enjoy themselves. With its blend of history, parks, and local culture, Cicero has plenty to offer.

Cicero Community Park – Whether you're looking to play sports, have a picnic, or attend a community event, Cicero Community Park is the go-to spot for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Hawthorne Works Shopping Center – This is the place for retail therapy! Browse the shops, grab a snack, or catch a movie with friends to unwind after a long day of studying.

Clyde Park – Known for its recreational offerings and ample green space, Clyde Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a game of basketball, or relaxing on the grass with a good book.

Cermak Plaza Shopping Center – In addition to shopping, this plaza often hosts local events and offers a mix of dining options to suit all tastes—everything a student needs for a day out.

50th Avenue Cafe – A cozy spot for studying or catching up with friends over coffee. With its inviting atmosphere, it's a favorite among local students.

Museum of Science and Industry (nearby in Chicago) – A short trip from Cicero, this museum offers endless exhibits that are both fun and educational, perfect for a weekend adventure with friends.

Each of these spots offers something unique, ensuring that students in Cicero have a diverse range of options to enjoy their free time and really make the most of their college years.