Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lake Centralia, IL
Considering a move to Lake Centralia, IL? This peaceful community of about 2,800 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $119,000 and average rents at $820. The area enjoys over 57% sunny days, a short average commute of 20 minutes, and access to local schools and nearby healthcare. With crime rates below national averages and a friendly small-town atmosphere, Lake Centralia provides a budget-friendly and relaxed lifestyle perfect for families or retirees.
Demographics - Lake Centralia, IL
Demographics - Lake Centralia, IL
Lake Centralia is a small, close-knit community of about 2,800 people, with a median age of 44.2 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other ethnic backgrounds, and most residents speak English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a relaxed, neighborly atmosphere ideal for both families and retirees.
Population:
2,800
Density:
320 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.0%
Black:
4.2%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lake Centralia, IL?
The cost of living in Lake Centralia is notably affordable, with a median home value of $119,000 and average rents around $820. Overall living expenses are well below the national average, making the city an attractive choice for those seeking budget-friendly housing and everyday costs. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, contributing to the area's accessibility.
Median House Value:
$119,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.5
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
66.0
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
92.4
Health Care:
94.2
Miscellaneous:
89.7
Crime
Is Lake Centralia, IL a safe place to live?
Lake Centralia experiences lower-than-average crime, with a violent crime rate of 245 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate that suggests a 1 in 60 chance annually. This lower crime index contributes to the city's safe and welcoming environment. Residents can enjoy peace of mind in this friendly, small-town setting.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
245
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,680
Crime Index:
1,925
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 408
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 60
Weather
What is the weather like in Lake Centralia, IL year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 88°F and mild winters dipping to around 24°F. The area receives about 41 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 57% sunny days, making it pleasant for outdoor activities. Overall, the climate supports a comfortable and active lifestyle year-round.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Households in Lake Centralia typically have a median income of just under $30,000, with family incomes higher at $61,700. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute is a manageable 20 minutes. The community's low unemployment and tight-knit feel foster a supportive environment for both work and leisure.
Median Income:
$29,800
Household Income:
$48,300
Family Income:
$61,700
Per Capita Income:
$26,800
Income Male:
$36,200
Income Female:
$28,100
Poverty Rate:
15.3%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
6.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
20.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.2%
Bachelors or More:
16.5%
Education
How are the schools in Lake Centralia, IL?
Lake Centralia offers quality education options through local public and private schools, including Centralia High School and Trinity Lutheran School. Students benefit from favorable student-teacher ratios and access to higher education at Kaskaskia College, just six miles away. The city's commitment to education ensures families have strong academic support for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Centralia High School
Street:
2100 E. Calumet St
Phone:
618-532-7391
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.8
Name:
Jordan Elementary School
Street:
908 E. Rexford St
Phone:
618-532-9521
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9
Private Schools
Name:
Trinity Lutheran School
Street:
203 S. Pleasant Ave
Phone:
618-532-5434
Students:
140
Colleges
Name:
Kaskaskia College
City:
Centralia
State:
IL
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
3,100
Healthcare
Lake Centralia residents have convenient access to healthcare, including SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital offering general and emergency services nearby. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage, healthcare is reliable and accessible. The city's healthcare index reflects a good standard of care for a town of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital Centralia
Address:
400 N Pleasant Ave, Centralia, IL 62801
Phone:
(618) 436-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lake Centralia, IL?
The housing market in Lake Centralia is highly affordable, with a median home price of $119,000 and rents for a two-bedroom averaging $820. Most residents own their homes, and the area enjoys a steady home appreciation rate of 4.1% annually. Rental vacancies are moderate, making it easy to find homes for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$119,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle and driver services for Lake Centralia are provided by the Illinois Secretary of State facility located in nearby Centralia. Residents can access a full range of DMV services, including license renewals and vehicle registrations, either in person or online. The office is conveniently located and serves the needs of local drivers.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State - Driver Services Facility
Address:
105 E. Rexford St, Centralia, IL 62801
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.