Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Charleston, IL
Thinking of moving to Charleston, IL? With a friendly population of 17,286 and a low median home price of just $117,000, Charleston offers affordable living and short average commutes of 14 minutes. The city enjoys a low violent crime rate (135 per 100K), a vibrant college-town atmosphere thanks to Eastern Illinois University, and good public schools. Residents benefit from a reasonable cost of living, 56% sunny days a year, and convenient healthcare nearby, making Charleston a smart choice for students, families, and anyone seeking small-town charm with modern amenities.
Demographics - Charleston, IL
Demographics - Charleston, IL
Charleston, Illinois, is home to around 17,300 residents, with a youthful median age of 24.8 due in part to the presence of Eastern Illinois University. The community is predominantly White, with a modest representation of other ethnic groups, and maintains a balanced gender ratio. With a population density of 2,100 per square mile, Charleston offers a college-town feel and diversity in a small-city setting.
Population:
17,286
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.8
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.2%
Black:
6.3%
Asian:
2.2%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Charleston, IL?
Charleston boasts a notably affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $117,000 and average rent under $800. Utility and grocery prices are below national averages, making the city an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. The cost of living index sits at 82.5, ensuring residents enjoy a high quality of life without high expenses.
Median House Value:
$117,000
Gross Rent:
$795
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,070
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.5
Grocery:
92.4
Housing:
60.2
Utilities:
99.6
Transportation:
85.7
Health Care:
94.9
Miscellaneous:
91.2
Crime
Is Charleston, IL a safe place to live?
Charleston experiences a low violent crime rate of 135 per 100,000 people, making it a relatively safe place to live. Property crime is more common but remains manageable compared to larger cities, with a 1 in 70 chance. Overall, residents can expect a secure environment with a strong sense of community safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
135
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,420
Crime Index:
1,555
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 740
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Charleston, IL year-round?
Charleston offers a typical Midwest climate, with cold winters dipping to 18°F and warm summers reaching highs of 86°F. The city receives an average of 41 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 56% of the year, providing residents with a balanced mix of seasonal weather. Spring and fall bring comfortable temperatures, making outdoor activities popular.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Charleston’s residents have a median household income of $41,700 and a per capita income of $20,300, with a poverty rate of 25.7%. Most neighbors commute just 14 minutes to work, and over 92% have completed high school. The community features a low unemployment rate and a welcoming atmosphere for both students and families.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$41,700
Family Income:
$60,900
Per Capita Income:
$20,300
Income Male:
$31,900
Income Female:
$27,100
Poverty Rate:
25.7%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$795
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
14.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
29.3%
Education
How are the schools in Charleston, IL?
Education in Charleston is anchored by quality public schools such as Charleston High School and Jefferson Elementary, with favorable student-teacher ratios. The city is also home to Eastern Illinois University, which brings a vibrant academic environment and over 7,400 college students to the community. This combination makes Charleston an appealing option for families and learners at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Charleston High School
Street:
920 Smith Dr
Phone:
217-639-5000
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Jefferson Elementary School
Street:
801 Jefferson Ave
Phone:
217-639-7000
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Colleges
Name:
Eastern Illinois University
City:
Charleston
State:
IL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,400
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is convenient in Charleston, with the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center nearby and 92.4% of residents insured. The city has 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people and a healthcare index of 67.8, ensuring quality services are within reach. Emergency care and general medical needs are well-supported for locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center
Address:
1000 Health Center Dr, Mattoon, IL 61938
Phone:
(217) 258-2525
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Charleston, IL?
Charleston's housing market is highly affordable, with median home prices at $117,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $795. Nearly half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the vacancy rate provides ample opportunities for both buyers and renters. The city has seen steady home appreciation, making it a stable choice for investment.
Median Home Price:
$117,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$795
Owner Occupied Rate:
48.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Charleston residents are served by the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility located at 1010 E St. Local services include driver licensing, vehicle registration, and title services, all easily accessible within the city. More information and online services are available through the Illinois Secretary of State website.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State - Driver Services Facility
Address:
1010 E St, Charleston, IL 61920
Phone:
(217) 345-6400
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.