Nestled in Cook County, the village of Matteson is a hidden gem that offers a blend of old-world charm and modern convenience, making it an attractive place for families and individuals alike. Known for its affordability and access to amenities, Old Matteson is a neighborhood that prides itself on being more than just a place to live—it’s a community.

With an average home value of around $251,574 and an average price per square foot at $135, Old Matteson boasts enticing home prices that are bound to appeal to first-time buyers and seasoned investors alike. This east side village community is not just affordable but also offers a variety of housing styles from cozy bungalows and farmhouses to modern split-level homes, accommodating a wide range of preferences and budgets.

Education is a cornerstone of any thriving community, and Old Matteson doesn’t disappoint. The area is served by reputable schools like the Infant Jesus of Prague School and O W Huth Middle School, ensuring that educational needs are met from preschool to middle school. The neighborhood also takes pride in its educational initiatives like the Real Men Read Program, further enriching the learning environment for its young residents.

Old Matteson’s culinary scene is as diverse as its housing, with local favorites such as Hidden Manna Café offering southern-style breakfast and A. Fusion Restaurant bringing an eclectic mix of Japanese-Chinese-Thai cuisine. Boccee’s Bar and Grill, a local staple since 1988, provides a classic bar experience with a variety of food and drink options.

The area is well-equipped for leisure and shopping, with several parks like the Rail Fan Park and Glaeser Park, offering trails and sports facilities. Matteson Plaza serves as a one-stop-shop for groceries, clothing, and more, ensuring residents don’t have to stray far from home for their daily needs.

In terms of transportation, Matteson Station provides connectivity, while the proximity to Chicago Midway International Airport adds to the convenience for travelers. The neighborhood scores fairly well on walkability and bikeability, making it accessible for pedestrians and cyclists.

From a real estate perspective, homes in Old Matteson sell after an average of 36 days on the market, a bit quicker than the national average, indicating a healthy demand for properties in the area. The demographics show a balanced community with a good mix of age groups and a median household income that aligns with national figures.

The village of Matteson is undergoing a significant transformation with the redevelopment of the former Lincoln Square Mall located at the intersection of high-traffic roadways Lincoln Highway and Cicero Avenue, boasting ample space and easy access via a highway interchange with I-57. The village has aptly named this revitalized area Market Square Crossing, envisioning it as the new town center for Matteson. Market Square Crossing aims to redevelop the former Lincoln Mall into a vibrant mixed-use community, encompassing 60 acres southeast of U.S. 30 and Cicero Avenue. The master plan includes over 2,000,000 sq. ft. of space for retail shops, restaurants, and businesses, along with amenities such as bicycle and jogging paths connecting to the Old Plank Road Trail, a proposed 2.3-acre Town Center with green space and a fountain, an outdoor concert venue, and over 30 acres dedicated to indoor and outdoor sports and entertainment use. With plans for 613 residential units, Market Square Crossing represents a significant step forward in Matteson’s evolution as a dynamic and inclusive community.

In addition to the comprehensive plan for Market Square Crossing, the village of Matteson has unveiled ambitious projects aimed at further enhancing the community’s infrastructure and economy. One of the flagship developments is the state-of-the-art Amazon Fulfillment Center. Spanning over 855,000 square feet, this facility will be one of Amazon’s pioneering operations in Cook County, utilizing cutting-edge Amazon Robotics technology. The center is set to create over 1,000 new, full-time jobs with competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, further bolstering the local economy.

These developments underscore Matteson’s commitment to sustainable growth, economic prosperity, and an enhanced quality of life for its residents.

This content was originally published on Homes.com.

Here you can access the Village of Matteson comprehensive plan adopted in March 2021.