Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cottage Hills, IL
Considering a move to Cottage Hills, IL? This small-town community of about 3,500 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $83,500 and average rents near $860. Residents enjoy a reasonable 25-minute average commute, two local hospitals nearby, and a friendly, close-knit vibe. While crime rates are slightly above the national average, the area boasts a modest cost of living, accessible schools, and classic Midwestern seasonal weather—making it a practical choice for budget-conscious movers seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Demographics - Cottage Hills, IL
Demographics - Cottage Hills, IL
Cottage Hills has a close-knit population of 3,500 residents, with a median age of 38 and a nearly even gender balance. The community is predominantly White, with small Black and Asian populations, and just 2.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. This creates a friendly, familiar atmosphere that appeals to families and newcomers alike.
Population:
3,500
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.5%
Black:
3.2%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
3.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cottage Hills, IL?
Living in Cottage Hills is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $83,500 and an overall cost of living index well below the national average. Monthly rent for a typical apartment is around $860, and essentials like groceries and utilities remain affordable, making it an attractive option for those seeking value without sacrificing comfort. State income taxes are a flat 4.95%, helping residents keep more of their earnings.
Median House Value:
$83,500
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.8
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
55.3
Utilities:
98.1
Transportation:
98.7
Health Care:
95.4
Miscellaneous:
86.2
Crime
Is Cottage Hills, IL a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Cottage Hills are somewhat higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 295 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime risk of 1 in 44. While the community is generally safe, new residents should take typical precautions and stay informed about local safety initiatives. The area remains a welcoming place for families who prioritize neighborhood awareness.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
295
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,250
Crime Index:
2,545
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 339
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 44
Weather
What is the weather like in Cottage Hills, IL year-round?
Cottage Hills experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 88°F and chilly winters dipping to about 20°F. The area receives around 39 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny weather 56% of the year, providing a classic Midwestern climate ideal for those who appreciate seasonal changes. Residents can look forward to vibrant springs and colorful autumns.

Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Cottage Hills are defined by a median household income of $47,800 and a poverty rate of 19.1%. Most residents commute about 25 minutes to work, and just 0.5% use public transportation, reflecting the area's suburban, car-friendly lifestyle. Educational attainment is solid, with over 82% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$26,000
Household Income:
$47,800
Family Income:
$59,200
Per Capita Income:
$20,700
Income Male:
$39,500
Income Female:
$29,800
Poverty Rate:
19.1%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
6.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
24.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.3%
Bachelors or More:
11.8%
Education
How are the schools in Cottage Hills, IL?
Families in Cottage Hills have access to quality public schools with manageable student-teacher ratios around 15 to 17, as well as a local private school option. Higher education is close by at Lewis and Clark Community College, just five miles away, serving over 4,500 students. This educational landscape supports learners at all ages and stages.

Public Schools
Name:
Cottage Hills Elementary School
Street:
1400 W Center Dr
Phone:
618-433-2196
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Name:
Meadowbrook Intermediate School
Street:
111 W Roosevelt Dr
Phone:
618-377-7254
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1

Private Schools
Name:
Evangelical School
Street:
1212 W Homer Adams Pkwy, Godfrey, IL
Phone:
618-466-1599
Students:
185

Colleges
Name:
Lewis and Clark Community College
City:
Godfrey
State:
IL
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Residents benefit from access to two major hospitals in nearby Alton and a healthcare coverage rate of 90%. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, medical services are accessible for most families. The area’s healthcare index of 67.4 reflects reliable local options for both routine and emergency care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Alton Memorial Hospital
Address:
1 Memorial Dr, Alton, IL 62002
Phone:
(618) 463-7311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
OSF Saint Anthony's Health Center
Address:
1 Saint Anthonys Way, Alton, IL 62002
Phone:
(618) 474-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
67.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cottage Hills, IL?
The Cottage Hills housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $83,500 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 67%. Renters find value with average two-bedroom rents at $860, and home values have appreciated modestly by 3.2% over the past year. The area offers a stable market with opportunities for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$83,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided through the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services office in nearby Alton. Residents can access driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online at ilsos.gov. The office offers convenient support for new arrivals and long-time residents alike.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services
Address:
432 Main St, Alton, IL 62002
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.