Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Centralia, IL
Considering a move to Centralia, IL? This friendly city of about 12,000 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $76,400 and average rents at $735. Commutes are a breeze, averaging just 18 minutes, and you’ll enjoy nearly 60% sunny days each year. While violent and property crime rates are higher than the national average, Centralia provides easy access to local healthcare and education, including Kaskaskia College. With a small-town feel and low cost of living, Centralia is a solid choice for those seeking value and community.
Demographics - Centralia, IL
Demographics - Centralia, IL
Centralia is home to approximately 12,182 residents, featuring a predominantly White population alongside a meaningful Black community and a median age of 41.2. The area maintains a balanced gender ratio and a moderate population density, offering a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike.
Population:
12,182
Density:
1,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
80.1%
Black:
14.2%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
5.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Centralia, IL?
Centralia stands out for its affordability, with a median home value of $76,400 and average rents around $735, making it a budget-friendly place to live. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, allowing residents to enjoy lower housing and utility expenses.
Median House Value:
$76,400
Gross Rent:
$735
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,160
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
73.9
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
48.7
Utilities:
98.4
Transportation:
82.3
Health Care:
93.5
Miscellaneous:
89.2
Crime
Is Centralia, IL a safe place to live?
Centralia experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a violent crime rate of 438 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime risk of 1 in 38. Prospective residents should consider local safety initiatives and neighborhood options when choosing where to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
438
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,650
Crime Index:
3,088
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 228
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 38
Weather
What is the weather like in Centralia, IL year-round?
Centralia offers four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 88°F and cold winters dipping to 22°F. Residents benefit from about 59% sunny days each year and average annual rainfall of over 43 inches, supporting a variety of outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
The median household income in Centralia is $38,400, with a notable poverty rate of 23.5%. Most residents have at least a high school education, commute times are short at around 18 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal.
Median Income:
$26,200
Household Income:
$38,400
Family Income:
$51,200
Per Capita Income:
$20,900
Income Male:
$31,800
Income Female:
$23,400
Poverty Rate:
23.5%
Non English Speakers:
3.8%
Rent:
$735
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
18.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.7%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Centralia, IL?
Centralia offers a range of educational opportunities, including public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and access to Kaskaskia College just 7 miles away. Families can also choose from private school options to best fit their educational preferences.

Public Schools
Name:
Centralia High School
Street:
2100 E Calumet St
Phone:
618-532-7391
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Schiller Elementary School
Street:
800 W 2nd St
Phone:
618-532-1907
Students:
300
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Private Schools
Name:
Trinity Lutheran School
Street:
203 S Pleasant Ave
Phone:
618-532-5434
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Kaskaskia College
City:
Centralia
State:
IL
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
3,400
Healthcare
Centralia provides reliable healthcare access through SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital and a strong physician presence at 1.7 per 1,000 residents. With over 92% of the population insured, healthcare services are readily available for most locals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital – Centralia
Address:
400 N Pleasant Ave, Centralia, IL 62801
Phone:
(618) 436-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
77.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Centralia, IL?
The local housing market is highly accessible, with median home prices at $76,400 and a majority of homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available, and the area has seen modest home appreciation, making it attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$76,400
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$735
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Centralia residents can access DMV services locally at the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility on W Noleman Street, providing convenient support for licensing and vehicle registration needs.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address:
1054 W Noleman St, Centralia, IL 62801
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.