Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Nelson, IL
Considering a move to Nelson, IL? This small, quiet village of 152 residents offers affordable living with median home prices around $84,000 and average rents at $700. Enjoy a low violent crime rate (110 per 100k), short 20-minute commutes, and a peaceful rural atmosphere. With access to local hospitals and schools, plus distinct Midwest seasons, Nelson is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, community-oriented lifestyle with a low cost of living.
Demographics - Nelson, IL
Demographics - Nelson, IL
Nelson, IL is a small rural village with a population of 152 residents and a median age of 48.7, indicating a mature community. The area is predominantly White (95%) with a slight male majority and a low percentage of non-English speakers, creating a close-knit and homogenous population. With moderate population density, Nelson offers a quiet and neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
152
Density:
300 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.7
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Nelson, IL?
Nelson boasts a low cost of living, with a cost of living index of 82.1 and median home values around $84,000. Residents benefit from affordable rent averaging $700 and reasonable utility costs, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals. State income tax is a flat 4.95%, and overall expenses are well below national averages.
Median House Value:
$84,000
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.1
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
45.0
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
93.0
Health Care:
88.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Nelson, IL a safe place to live?
Nelson experiences a notably low violent crime rate of 110 per 100,000, offering residents a sense of safety and security. Property crime is more prevalent, with a 1 in 87 chance, but overall crime remains lower than in many larger communities. This makes Nelson a good choice for those seeking a peaceful, small-town environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,150
Crime Index:
1,260
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 900
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 87
Weather
What is the weather like in Nelson, IL year-round?
Nelson experiences all four seasons typical of the Midwest, with cold winters averaging lows of 13°F and warm summers reaching highs of 85°F. The area receives about 37.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 53% of the year. Residents can expect distinct seasonal changes, perfect for those who appreciate a varied climate.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
The median household income in Nelson is $58,200, with a poverty rate of 11.2% and unemployment at 5.2%. Most residents commute about 20 minutes to work, and a majority have completed high school, though only 16.5% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The community is tight-knit and largely English-speaking, with affordable rents and a modest cost of living.
Median Income:
$34,500
Household Income:
$58,200
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$24,900
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$32,800
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
19.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.5%
Bachelors or More:
16.5%
Education
How are the schools in Nelson, IL?
Nelson offers access to quality education, with nearby public schools like Rock Falls High School and Dillon Elementary providing favorable student-teacher ratios. Private school options and Sauk Valley Community College, located just 10 miles away, expand educational opportunities. The area supports both young families and adult learners with its range of schooling choices.

Public Schools
Name:
Rock Falls High School
Street:
101 12th Ave
Phone:
815-625-3886
Students:
660
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Dillon Elementary School
Street:
1901 8th Ave, Sterling
Phone:
815-625-3356
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2

Private Schools
Name:
St. Andrew School
Street:
701 11th Ave, Rock Falls
Phone:
815-625-1456
Students:
110

Colleges
Name:
Sauk Valley Community College
City:
Dixon
State:
IL
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Nelson residents have access to quality healthcare, with nearby hospitals like CGH Medical Center and Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital offering emergency services. Health insurance coverage is high at 92.1%, and there are 1.2 physicians per 1,000 people. Healthcare is accessible and reliable for this small community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
CGH Medical Center
Address:
100 E LeFevre Rd, Sterling, IL 61081
Phone:
(815) 625-0400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
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:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Nelson, IL?
The housing market in Nelson is highly accessible, with a median home price of $84,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 84.7%. Rental options are available with average rents at $700, and the area sees modest home appreciation at 3.2% annually. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates make it a stable place to buy or rent a home.
Median Home Price:
$84,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.0%
DMV Information
Residents of Nelson can access DMV services at the Illinois Secretary of State Facility in nearby Rock Falls. The facility provides essential driver and vehicle services and is conveniently located for local residents. Information and online resources are available through the Illinois Secretary of State website.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Facility
Address:
1116 1st 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.