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Oak Park does have some unusual advantages that have helped it maintain its character: it is an architectural showplace with 25 Frank Lloyd Wright [houses within five square miles; the U.S. : Parks Service has provided federal funds for restoration of a number of landmark buildings; the village is convenient for commuters, since it is just 20 minutes by rapid transit from Chicago's Loop.
The minority population has increased from less than 1% six years ago to 7% today, and housing values have not suffered: the average Oak Park home now sells for $48,000, up from $32,000 in 1971. Nevertheless, next year the village plans to offer to its homeowners insurance against declines in property values. Says Village Manager Jack Gruber: "Integration is not something you win at, it's something you work at."