Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Decatur, IL
Considering a move to Decatur, IL? With a population of about 69,000, Decatur stands out for its affordable living—median home prices hover around $92,400 and average rent is $790. Commutes are short at just 18 minutes on average, and the city offers a strong healthcare presence and easy access to higher education through Millikin University. While crime rates are above national averages, residents enjoy four-season weather, a reasonable cost of living, and a friendly Midwestern atmosphere, making Decatur a practical choice for families and newcomers alike.
Demographics - Decatur, IL
Demographics - Decatur, IL
Decatur, Illinois is home to nearly 69,300 residents with a median age of 40, offering a balanced mix of families and working professionals. The community is predominantly White (about 70%), with a significant Black population and smaller Asian and other ethnic groups, reflecting moderate diversity. With a density of 1,900 people per square mile, the city maintains a comfortable small-city feel.
Population:
69,291
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.1
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
69.8%
Black:
22.2%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
7.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Decatur, IL?
Decatur boasts a notably low cost of living, with a median home value of around $92,400 and average rent at $790, making it attractive for budget-conscious residents. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also below national averages. The area's overall cost of living index is 74.1, offering significant savings for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$92,400
Gross Rent:
$790
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
74.1
Grocery:
93.6
Housing:
37.8
Utilities:
95.9
Transportation:
82.1
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Decatur, IL a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Decatur are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 216 chance of experiencing a violent crime and property crime risks at 1 in 29. While the city is friendly and welcoming, newcomers should be mindful of these statistics and take standard safety precautions. Community initiatives and local law enforcement are active in addressing safety concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
463
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,464
Crime Index:
3,927
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 216
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Decatur, IL year-round?
Residents in Decatur experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows near 19°F and warm summers reaching highs of 85°F. The city receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall per year and enjoys sunshine on about 57% of days. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
36°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Typical households in Decatur have a median income of $46,900, with about 22% of residents living below the poverty line. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short at just over 18 minutes. The community values education and enjoys a relaxed, small-town pace.
Median Income:
$28,900
Household Income:
$46,900
Family Income:
$59,800
Per Capita Income:
$25,800
Income Male:
$37,100
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
21.8%
Non English Speakers:
4.8%
Rent:
$790
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
18.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.4%
Bachelors or More:
19.7%
Education
How are the schools in Decatur, IL?
Decatur is served by several public and private schools, including Decatur High School and St. Teresa High School, offering a range of educational opportunities for families. The city is also home to Millikin University and Richland Community College, providing easy access to higher education. Student-to-teacher ratios in local schools are favorable, supporting personalized learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Decatur High School
Street:
1498 Stadium Ave
Phone:
217-362-3100
Students:
1,120
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Dennis Lab School
Street:
1499 W Main St
Phone:
217-362-3510
Students:
630
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8

Private Schools
Name:
St. Teresa High School
Street:
2710 N Water St
Phone:
217-875-2431
Students:
330

Colleges
Name:
Millikin University
City:
Decatur
State:
IL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,800
Name:
Richland Community College
City:
Decatur
State:
IL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Decatur offers convenient access to quality healthcare through major hospitals like Decatur Memorial Hospital and HSHS St. Mary's Hospital, both providing emergency services. There are about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 93% of locals have health insurance coverage. The healthcare system is robust for a city of its size, supporting both families and retirees.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Decatur Memorial Hospital
Address:
2300 N. Edward St, Decatur, IL 62526
Phone:
(217) 876-8121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
HSHS St. Mary's Hospital
Address:
1800 E Lake Shore Dr, Decatur, IL 62521
Phone:
(217) 464-2966
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.1%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Decatur, IL?
The Decatur housing market is highly affordable, with median home prices at $92,400 and owner-occupancy above 60%. Rental options are available with an average two-bedroom rent of $790, and a modest home appreciation rate suggests stable investment potential. The city also has a relatively low foreclosure rate, contributing to neighborhood stability.
Median Home Price:
$92,400
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$790
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services at the Illinois Secretary of State Facility located on N Woodford St in Decatur. The state DMV offers comprehensive licensing, registration, and title services, and helpful information is available via their website or by phone. This convenient location makes managing vehicle needs straightforward for Decatur residents.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Facility
Address:
3149 N Woodford St, Decatur, IL 62526
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.