Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bell Plain, IL
Thinking of moving to Bell Plain, IL? This small rural community of about 350 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $128,000 and rents averaging $690. Residents enjoy a lower-than-average crime rate, short commute times of 27 minutes, and a quiet, friendly atmosphere. With solid local schools, a high homeownership rate, and classic Midwestern seasons, Bell Plain is a great fit for those seeking a peaceful, budget-friendly lifestyle.
Demographics - Bell Plain, IL
Demographics - Bell Plain, IL
Bell Plain is a small, close-knit rural community of about 350 residents, with a population density of just 45 people per square mile. The median age is 44, and the town is predominantly White, with a balanced gender distribution and a small percentage of non-English speakers. This quiet atmosphere appeals to those seeking a modest and neighborly lifestyle.
Population:
350
Density:
45 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.3%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bell Plain, IL?
Living in Bell Plain is notably affordable, with a median home value of $128,000 and average monthly rent at $690. The cost of living index is 84.5, well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families and retirees. Utility and grocery costs are reasonable, and Illinois' flat state income tax helps keep expenses predictable.
Median House Value:
$128,000
Gross Rent:
$690
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,020
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
82.0
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Bell Plain, IL a safe place to live?
Bell Plain enjoys a relatively low crime environment, with only 110 violent crimes and 650 property crimes reported per 100,000 residents. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is just 1 in 909, offering residents a sense of safety and peace of mind. This makes the area appealing for families and those seeking a secure community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
650
Crime Index:
760
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 909
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 154
Weather
What is the weather like in Bell Plain, IL year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with warm summers peaking at 85°F and cold winters dipping to 16°F. The area receives around 38 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine about 56% of the year. These classic Midwestern weather patterns provide a diverse climate for outdoor enthusiasts.

Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The median household income in Bell Plain is $62,300, with about 91% of adults holding at least a high school diploma and a poverty rate of 9.8%. Unemployment is relatively low at 4.9%, and the average commute time is just over 27 minutes. The town fosters a stable, hardworking community with a strong sense of local pride.
Median Income:
$39,500
Household Income:
$62,300
Family Income:
$74,000
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$34,000
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
3.1%
Rent:
$690
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
27.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.0%
Bachelors or More:
19.5%
Education
How are the schools in Bell Plain, IL?
Bell Plain offers quality public education with Galva Junior-Senior High School serving local students and benefiting from a low student-teacher ratio of 13.6. Higher education is accessible nearby at Black Hawk College – East Campus, just 6 miles away. The community values education, ensuring students have supportive learning opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Galva Junior-Senior High School
Street:
1020 N Center Ave
Phone:
309-932-2151
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6

Colleges
Name:
Black Hawk College – East Campus
City:
Galva
State:
IL
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Bell Plain residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, including the nearby OSF Saint Luke Medical Center offering emergency services. With 91.8% health insurance coverage and 1.4 physicians per 1,000 residents, the community is well served for its size. Healthcare costs remain moderate, contributing to overall affordability.

Major Hospitals
Name:
OSF Saint Luke Medical Center
Address:
1051 W South St, Kewanee, IL 61443
Phone:
(309) 852-7500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
70.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bell Plain, IL?
The housing market in Bell Plain is stable, with a median home price of $128,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 81.4%. Home values are appreciating modestly by 2.3% annually, and rental options are available with a low vacancy rate. This makes the area attractive for both buyers and renters looking for long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$128,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$690
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services for Bell Plain residents are managed by the Illinois Secretary of State, with convenient access to resources and support through the Springfield office or the official website. Illinois offers streamlined DMV services for licensing, registration, and vehicle needs. Residents can count on straightforward processes for all driving-related matters.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State - Driver Services
Address:
111 N. 7th St, Springfield, IL 62702
Phone:
1-800-252-8980
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.