Known as one of the oldest communities in Will County, Plainfield's historic downtown district features beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture along Lockport Street. The village, established in 1834, sits between Naperville and Joliet, providing a strategic location for commuters while maintaining its distinct small-town atmosphere. With several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Flanders House and a 1928 Standard Oil gas station, Plainfield's downtown area showcases the community's rich heritage through its well-preserved commercial buildings and historic homes.

Rental options in Plainfield include townhomes, single-family homes, and apartment communities throughout its established neighborhoods. The area offers easy access to Lake Renwick Preserve, a 320-acre county forest preserve featuring hiking trails and a heron rookery that attracts birdwatchers and nature photographers. Settlers' Park, located near Village Hall, features an amphitheater for summer concerts, walking paths, and a splash pad for warm-weather recreation.

Plainfield's location along Interstate 55's eastern edge provides direct access to Chicago, with the 34-mile commute typically taking under an hour during off-peak times. The village has transformed from its agricultural roots to become a thriving suburban community with a median household income of $134,800. While many residents commute to job centers in neighboring Naperville and Joliet, Plainfield itself continues to develop with new retail centers and restaurants, particularly along Route 59 and 135th Street.