Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Harvard, IL
Considering a move to Harvard, IL? This small city of 9,223 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $164,000 and average rents near $1,050. Harvard boasts a low violent crime rate (110 per 100K), a 30-minute average commute, and access to quality local schools. Residents enjoy four true seasons with 54% sunny days annually, and the city's diverse community and lower cost of living make it a welcoming choice for families and newcomers alike.
Demographics - Harvard, IL
Demographics - Harvard, IL
Harvard, Illinois is home to around 9,200 residents with a youthful median age of 31.9, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. The city is notably diverse, with over 39% of the population identifying as ethnic minorities and nearly a third speaking a language other than English at home. Population density is moderate, offering a balanced blend of small-town comfort and local activity.
Population:
9,223
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
31.9
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
32.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
58.2%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
39.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Harvard, IL?
Harvard features a cost of living index of 88.5, making it more affordable than the national average. Median home values are attractively priced at $164,000, and average rent hovers around $1,050, making the city a practical option for both homeowners and renters. Utility and everyday expenses remain reasonable, helping families and individuals stretch their budgets further.
Median House Value:
$164,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$525
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.5
Grocery:
92.3
Housing:
72.5
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
94.0
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
89.8
Crime
Is Harvard, IL a safe place to live?
Residents of Harvard benefit from a low violent crime rate of 110 incidents per 100,000 people, which is below many comparable cities. The chance of experiencing property crime is about 1 in 103, offering a sense of security for those considering a move. Overall, Harvard maintains a safe and welcoming environment for its residents.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
970
Crime Index:
1,080
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 909
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 103
Weather
What is the weather like in Harvard, IL year-round?
Harvard experiences all four seasons, with cold winters dipping to 13°F and warm summers reaching up to 82°F. The area receives about 36.5 inches of rainfall each year and enjoys sunshine 54% of the time, making it ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety. Residents can expect mild springs and crisp autumns, perfect for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Households in Harvard have a median income of $62,700, with a family-friendly environment and a moderate poverty rate of 13.6%. Most residents enjoy a manageable average commute of just over 30 minutes, while education levels show that over 70% have completed high school. The city’s diverse population and affordable rent contribute to a welcoming, community-oriented lifestyle.
Median Income:
$33,900
Household Income:
$62,700
Family Income:
$68,500
Per Capita Income:
$24,800
Income Male:
$38,700
Income Female:
$29,300
Poverty Rate:
13.6%
Non English Speakers:
32.5%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
30.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
72.5%
Bachelors or More:
15.8%
Education
How are the schools in Harvard, IL?
Harvard’s public schools, such as Harvard High School and Crosby Elementary, provide a supportive learning environment with manageable class sizes and a focus on student success. Private education is also available locally, and McHenry County College, located just 17 miles away, offers higher education opportunities. The city’s educational resources make it an excellent choice for families with children.

Public Schools
Name:
Harvard High School
Street:
1103 N. Jefferson St
Phone:
815-943-6461
Students:
630
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
Richard D. Crosby Elementary School
Street:
401 Hereley Dr
Phone:
815-943-6125
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6

Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph Catholic School
Street:
201 N. Division St
Phone:
815-943-6933
Students:
110

Colleges
Name:
McHenry County College
City:
Crystal Lake
State:
IL
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
8,000
Healthcare
Harvard offers convenient access to healthcare, including Mercyhealth Hospital and other nearby facilities with emergency services. With about 1.8 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, quality care is readily available. The city’s healthcare index reflects reliable service for both families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercyhealth Hospital and Medical Center - Harvard
Address:
901 Grant St, Harvard, IL 60033
Phone:
(815) 943-5431
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital
Address:
4201 Medical Center Dr, McHenry, IL 60050
Phone:
(815) 344-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
65.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Harvard, IL?
The housing market in Harvard is appealing, with a median home price of $164,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 67.4%. Rental options are accessible, with the average two-bedroom apartment renting for $1,050 and a rental vacancy rate of 7.8%. Home appreciation remains steady, making the city attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$164,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents in Harvard can access driver and vehicle services at the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility located in nearby Woodstock. The facility offers a range of DMV services and can be contacted by phone or through the official Illinois Secretary of State website. Its convenient location and full suite of services make managing vehicle and licensing needs straightforward.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address:
428 S. Eastwood Dr., Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone:
815-338-7212
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.