Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dixon, IL
Considering Dixon, IL for your next home? With a population of about 16,000, Dixon offers affordable living—median home prices are just $142,000, and rents average $840. Commute times are short at under 19 minutes, and you’ll find a close-knit community with a strong public school system and access to local healthcare. While crime rates are a bit above national averages, Dixon’s friendly atmosphere, four distinct seasons, and low cost of living make it a practical choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Dixon, IL
Dixon, Illinois is a mid-sized city of nearly 16,000 residents, with a median age of 41 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, but includes a small mix of Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, and around 7% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a blend of small-town charm and urban convenience.
Population:
15,975
Density:
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
87.1%
Black:
3.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
8.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Dixon, IL?
Dixon boasts a cost of living index well below the national average, making it an affordable place to settle. Median home values are around $142,000, and typical rents are just $840, with household expenses and state tax rates remaining manageable for most families. Essentials like groceries, utilities, and healthcare are reasonably priced, supporting a comfortable lifestyle without high overhead costs.
Median House Value:
$142,000
Gross Rent:
$840
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,130
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,220
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.8
Grocery:
92.7
Housing:
67.5
Utilities:
96.2
Transportation:
92.9
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
96.5
Crime
Is Dixon, IL a safe place to live?
Dixon experiences slightly higher crime rates compared to national averages, with a 1 in 391 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 60 chance of property crime. While these numbers may be above average, many residents appreciate the city’s active community involvement and local law enforcement presence. Overall, Dixon remains a place where neighbors look out for one another.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
256
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,665
Crime Index:
1,921
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 391
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 60
Weather
What is the weather like in Dixon, IL year-round?
Dixon offers four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 14°F and warm summers peaking at 84°F. The city receives about 36.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year. Residents benefit from a classic Midwest climate, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Dixon’s neighborhoods are largely family-oriented, with median household incomes around $58,000 and a family income of $75,200. Most adults have completed high school, and commute times are short at under 19 minutes. The local poverty rate is 13%, but the area maintains a strong sense of community and stability.
Median Income:
$32,400
Household Income:
$57,800
Family Income:
$75,200
Per Capita Income:
$28,500
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
13.0%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$840
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
18.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
21.4%
Education
How are the schools in Dixon, IL?
Dixon supports a robust education system with several public and private schools, including Dixon High School and Reagan Middle School, both featuring favorable student-teacher ratios. The city is also home to Sauk Valley Community College, located just six miles away, providing local higher education opportunities. Families will find a range of educational choices for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Dixon High School
Street:
300 Lincoln Statue Dr
Phone:
815-284-7723
Students:
810
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1
Name:
Reagan Middle School
Street:
620 Division St
Phone:
815-284-7725
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary School
Street:
704 S Peoria Ave
Phone:
815-284-6986
Students:
170
Colleges
Name:
Sauk Valley Community College
City:
Dixon
State:
IL
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Residents of Dixon have access to quality healthcare, including the Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital offering general and emergency services. The city has about 2 physicians per 1,000 people, and over 94% of residents have health insurance coverage. These resources ensure most health needs can be met locally.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital
Address:
403 E 1st St, Dixon, IL 61021
Phone:
(815) 288-5531
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.2%
Health Care Index:
70.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Dixon, IL?
Dixon’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $142,000 and most homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $840 and a vacancy rate just above 8%. The area has seen modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates, making it stable for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$142,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$840
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Dixon residents can access DMV services via the Illinois Secretary of State office in nearby Rock Falls, providing convenient options for vehicle registration and licensing. The office is easily reachable and offers standard services both in-person and online. This ensures local drivers have straightforward access to all necessary motor vehicle resources.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State DMV
Address:
206 Dixon Ave, Rock Falls, IL 61071
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.