Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lerna, IL
Considering a move to Lerna, IL? This cozy village of 244 residents offers very affordable living, with median home prices around $78,500 and rents near $700. You'll enjoy low crime rates, short 22-minute commutes, and a quiet rural atmosphere. Local schools are well-rated, and nearby Charleston provides access to higher education and healthcare. Lerna’s low cost of living and strong sense of community make it a welcoming choice for those seeking small-town charm.
Demographics - Lerna, IL
Lerna, IL is a small village with a population of 244, characterized by a predominantly White community and a balanced gender ratio. The median age is around 41, suggesting a mature but diverse population. Most residents speak English at home, and the area offers a friendly, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
244
Density:
1,281 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.8
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
97.1%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
2.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lerna, IL?
The cost of living in Lerna is notably affordable, with a median home value of $78,500 and average rents around $700. Utility and insurance costs are also modest, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious residents. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without high expenses.
Median House Value:
$78,500
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
49.8
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
92.5
Health Care:
94.1
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Lerna, IL a safe place to live?
Lerna experiences very low violent crime, with only 68 incidents per 100,000 people, and property crime rates are also below national averages. Residents enjoy a sense of safety, with the chance of experiencing violent crime being 1 in 1,470. This peaceful environment makes Lerna ideal for families and those seeking a secure community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
68
Property Crimes Per 100k:
720
Crime Index:
788
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,470
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 139
Weather
What is the weather like in Lerna, IL year-round?
Lerna enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs around 86°F and cold winters with lows near 18°F. The village receives about 40.5 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 56% of the year. Residents benefit from a balanced climate perfect for enjoying both indoor and outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
36°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
40.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The median household income in Lerna is $41,500, and about 15% of residents live below the poverty line. Most neighbors commute around 22 minutes to work, and the community is largely car-dependent with no public transit usage. Educational attainment is high, with nearly 89% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$41,500
Family Income:
$52,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,100
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
15.3%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
22.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.8%
Bachelors or More:
14.2%
Education
How are the schools in Lerna, IL?
Lerna is served by local public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and access to higher education at Eastern Illinois University just 10 miles away. The area's schools are well-rated, offering quality education for families. The proximity to a major university also enriches educational and cultural opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Arcola Elementary School
Street:
351 W Washington St
Phone:
217-268-4963
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Arcola High School
Street:
351 W Washington St
Phone:
217-268-4962
Students:
230
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1

Colleges
Name:
Eastern Illinois University
City:
Charleston
State:
IL
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
7,400
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Lerna is strong, with 93.5% of residents covered by health insurance and nearby hospitals like Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center providing emergency and general care. The community benefits from an adequate number of physicians, ensuring timely medical support. Health care costs are reasonable, contributing to the area's affordability.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center
Address:
1000 Health Center Dr, Mattoon, IL 61938
Phone:
(217) 258-2525
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lerna, IL?
Lerna’s housing market is highly affordable, featuring a median home price of $78,500 and average two-bedroom rents at $700. The majority of homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy rates remain low. Home values have seen modest appreciation, making the area appealing for both buyers and renters seeking stability.
Median Home Price:
$78,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Lerna access vehicle and licensing services through the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility in Flora. The DMV provides standard services including registration and driver's licensing, with convenient contact options and online resources. This ensures residents can efficiently handle their transportation needs.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address:
1011 E. North Ave, Flora, IL 62839
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.