Discover the Vibranance of Southland
Chicago Area’s South Suburbs
Why Choose Southland?
The Southland is a vibrant growing region that consists of 45 cities and villages within the Greater Chicago area. Located in Will County and Cook County, Illinois, the Southland has a population of nearly 700,000 people, representing a density of roughly 500 persons per square mile. The Southland has low unemployment rates; prominent business, manufacturing, and logistics corridors; a high diversity index; stable per capita and median household incomes; and conveniently located near Chicago.
45
CITIES & VILLAGES
700K
RESIDENTS
A Place for Everyone
Southland is home to many diverse neighborhoods and unique groups, ranging from large, technical-skilled workforce communities to more relaxed single-family detached neighborhoods nestled between vast agricultural farmland.
This vibrant suburban area is ideal for all generations, boasting plentiful parks, schools, and a variety of restaurants, all conveniently linked to downtown Chicago by an easy metro connection.
"[The Southland Development Authority (SDA) and The Source] saw a light in me. They are not just looking at face value potential, but the long-term potential of a small business owner."
Letitia Clark, A New Way To Go and Jerrica Hill, Business Advisor, SDA
Curious about what SDA has accomplished?
Take a closer look at the SDA projects that are driving change and making a significant impact in Southland. From infrastructure improvements to community revitalization efforts, see how we’re building a brighter future.
We’re here to help
BUSINESS GROWTH SERVICES
Grow your business
SDA offers the resources and technical assistance you need to help your business grow and thrive.
SOUTH SUBURBAN LAND BANK
Find a property
Whether you are looking for a house, an apartment or a condo, we can help you find just the right fit.
METALS HUB
Forge a partnership
SDA offers the resources and technical assistance you need to help your business grow and thrive.
REAL ESTATE INITIATIVE
Build a community
The Southland is a growing region. SDA can help you connect with the right property.
THE MONARCH FUND
Fund the
Future
The Southland is on the move. Let us help you find the investment opportunity you are looking for.
Launching Early 2024
MUNICIPAL CONSULTING
Support your
municipality
Work with us to reduce the cost of economic development and revitalize your town or village.
Southland at a glance
Stay informed about the latest developments and opportunities in Southland by exploring our Lookbook. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the exciting projects and investments that are shaping the future of the region.
"The Village of Homewood has had a strong commitment to economic development over the past decade. We are pleased to have a new regional partner in the Southland Development Authority, which has gone the extra mile to spotlight the successes in Homewood's burgeoning downtown — through seminars showcasing the Village, through small business training in town, through peer-to-peer information sharing on best practices, and more. Looking ahead, we are eager to continue the work with the SDA — it will benefit not only the Village but also our neighbors so that the region can grow stronger."
— Angela Mesaros, AICP, Director of Economic & Community Development at the Village of Homewood"
Get in touch.
Stay informed about the latest developments and opportunities in Southland.
At the South Suburban Land Bank, we specialize in the strategic redevelopment of vacant and abandoned properties.