Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Galena, IL
Considering a move to Galena, IL? This historic small town of 3,183 residents offers affordable living with median home prices around $195,000 and average rents at $830. Galena boasts a low violent crime rate (67 per 100K), a short average commute of 18.7 minutes, and a strong public school system with small class sizes. Enjoy four distinct seasons, a relaxed pace of life, and easy access to local healthcare—all in a naturally beautiful, welcoming community.
Demographics - Galena, IL
Demographics - Galena, IL
Galena is a close-knit community of about 3,183 residents, with a median age of 53.1, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White, and the population density provides a spacious, small-town feel. A modest percentage of residents speak languages other than English, adding some cultural diversity.
Population:
3,183
Density:
582 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.1
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.5%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
4.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Galena, IL?
Living in Galena is highly affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home prices around $195,000. Residents benefit from reasonable rents and utility costs, making it attractive for both homeowners and renters. State income tax is flat at 4.95%, and everyday expenses such as groceries and healthcare are budget-friendly.
Median House Value:
$195,000
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,215
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$425
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.4
Grocery:
97.0
Housing:
70.5
Utilities:
98.3
Transportation:
94.7
Health Care:
95.1
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Galena, IL a safe place to live?
Galena offers a safe environment with a very low violent crime rate of 67 per 100,000 residents, well below the national average. Property crime rates are also relatively low, giving residents peace of mind. The odds of experiencing a violent crime are about 1 in 1,493, making this a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
67
Property Crimes Per 100k:
860
Crime Index:
927
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,493
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 116
Weather
What is the weather like in Galena, IL year-round?
Residents of Galena experience four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching the low 80s and cold winters dipping into the teens. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine nearly 52% of the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities and seasonal charm.
Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
35.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Households in Galena have a median income of $57,800, and the poverty rate sits at 10.1%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the community enjoys a low unemployment rate of 3.8%. Residents benefit from short commute times and a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$31,400
Household Income:
$57,800
Family Income:
$74,600
Per Capita Income:
$32,200
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$32,900
Poverty Rate:
10.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
18.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.7%
Bachelors or More:
38.2%
Education
How are the schools in Galena, IL?
Galena supports strong educational opportunities with local public and private schools offering small class sizes and attentive instruction. Nearby colleges, such as the University of Dubuque and Northeast Iowa Community College, expand post-secondary options within a short commute. The community places high value on education, with nearly 95% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Galena Middle School
Street:
1230 Franklin St
Phone:
815-777-2413
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Galena High School
Street:
1206 Franklin St
Phone:
815-777-0917
Students:
255
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary School
Street:
210 S Bench St
Phone:
815-777-0507
Students:
75
Colleges
Name:
Northeast Iowa Community College
City:
Peosta
State:
IA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
4,500
Name:
University of Dubuque
City:
Dubuque
State:
IA
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Galena residents have access to quality healthcare, including the local Midwest Medical Center and nearby major hospitals, with 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people. Over 91% of the population has health insurance, and emergency services are readily available. The healthcare environment is robust for a town of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Midwest Medical Center
Address:
1 Medical Center Dr, Galena, IL 61036
Phone:
(815) 777-1340
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center
Address:
250 Mercy Dr, Dubuque, IA 52001
Phone:
(563) 589-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
76.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Galena, IL?
Homeownership is common in Galena, where 70.3% of residents own their homes and the median home price is $195,000. The rental market is stable with low vacancy and affordable rents averaging $830 for a two-bedroom. The area has seen modest home appreciation and very low foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$195,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$830
Owner Occupied Rate:
70.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
DMV services for Galena residents are provided by the Illinois Secretary of State Facility in Freeport, located a short drive away. Residents can handle licensing, registration, and vehicle services both in person and online. The facility ensures convenient access to all standard DMV needs.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Facility
Address:
2350 Route 20 West, Freeport, IL 61032
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.