Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Peru, IL
Considering a move to Peru, IL? This friendly city of about 9,650 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $129,000 and average rents near $840. Enjoy manageable commute times of under 20 minutes, a strong sense of community, and access to OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center. While educational attainment is solid and crime rates are moderate, you'll find good local schools and plenty of sunny days. Peru is a great choice for those seeking small-town charm and budget-friendly Midwest living.
Demographics - Peru, IL
Peru, IL is home to about 9,650 residents, with a population density of 1,350 per square mile and a median age of 44.1, reflecting a mature community. The city is predominantly White, with nearly 6% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, offering a modest level of cultural diversity. The gender ratio is fairly balanced, and the population enjoys a stable, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
9,650
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.3%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
5.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Peru, IL?
The cost of living in Peru is notably affordable, with a median home value of $129,000 and average rents around $840 per month. Residents benefit from low housing costs and reasonable utility expenses, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and individuals. The city's overall cost of living index is well below the national average, allowing income to stretch further in daily life.
Median House Value:
$129,000
Gross Rent:
$840
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$940
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.5
Grocery:
92.2
Housing:
62.4
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
87.0
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
94.5
Crime
Is Peru, IL a safe place to live?
Peru experiences moderate crime levels, with a violent crime rate of 320 per 100,000 and a property crime chance of 1 in 51. While residents should remain aware of their surroundings, the city's crime rate is manageable compared to urban centers. Community policing and neighborhood involvement contribute to a generally safe living environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
320
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,950
Crime Index:
2,270
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 313
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 51
Weather
What is the weather like in Peru, IL year-round?
Residents of Peru enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 85°F and cold winters where lows dip to 16°F. The city receives about 37 inches of annual rainfall and sees sunshine 53% of the year, creating a balanced climate for outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures, making for pleasant transitions between seasons.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Most households in Peru earn a median income of $55,800, with a poverty rate just under 14%. The community boasts high educational attainment, with over 90% of adults holding at least a high school diploma. Commutes are short, averaging less than 19 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal, highlighting the city's small-town convenience.
Median Income:
$35,500
Household Income:
$55,800
Family Income:
$73,100
Per Capita Income:
$29,900
Income Male:
$41,200
Income Female:
$32,900
Poverty Rate:
13.9%
Non English Speakers:
5.8%
Rent:
$840
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
18.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.5%
Bachelors or More:
19.7%
Education
How are the schools in Peru, IL?
Peru offers quality public education through schools like Northview Elementary and Parkside Middle, both featuring favorable student-teacher ratios. Private school options and proximity to Illinois Valley Community College, just 4 miles away, provide additional educational opportunities for families. The city's commitment to education ensures a supportive environment for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Northview Elementary School
Street:
2100 Plum St
Phone:
815-223-1111
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
Parkside Middle School
Street:
1800 Church St
Phone:
815-223-7723
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Private Schools
Name:
Peru Catholic School
Street:
2006 N. Church St
Phone:
815-224-1914
Students:
240
Colleges
Name:
Illinois Valley Community College
City:
Oglesby
State:
IL
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
2,800
Healthcare
Peru offers strong healthcare access, anchored by OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center, which provides general and emergency services. With 1.8 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, most locals have ready access to medical care when needed. The city's healthcare index indicates reliable services for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center - Peru
Address:
925 West St, Peru, IL 61354
Phone:
(815) 223-3300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
68.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Peru, IL?
The housing market in Peru is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $129,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $850. Homeownership is popular, as nearly 70% of residents own their homes, and vacancy rates remain manageable. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates signal a healthy market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$129,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Peru residents can access DMV services at the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility in nearby Ottawa, about 15 minutes away. This office provides licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle services for Illinois drivers. For additional information, residents can visit the official Illinois Secretary of State website.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address:
425 S. Bowling St., Ottawa, IL 61350
Phone:
815-434-7926
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.