Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Polo, IL
Considering a move to Polo, IL? This inviting small city of 2,260 offers a low cost of living, with median home prices around $105,000 and average rents at $690. The crime rates are lower than most, with just 142 violent crimes per 100k, and commutes are a breeze at under 25 minutes. Polo boasts well-rated local schools, a friendly rural vibe, and four-season weather with plenty of sunny days. It’s an affordable, safe, and welcoming place for those seeking a close-knit community.
Demographics - Polo, IL
Polo, IL is a small community of about 2,260 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of 43.5. The city features a balanced gender ratio and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a close-knit and familiar atmosphere. Its population density of 1,350 per square mile reflects a comfortable small-town environment.
Population:
2,260
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.5
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
94.2%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Polo, IL?
Living in Polo is notably affordable, with median home values around $105,000 and average rents at $690. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making daily expenses and homeownership accessible for most families. Utilities, groceries, and healthcare costs are generally lower than in larger cities, adding to the overall affordability.
Median House Value:
$105,000
Gross Rent:
$690
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,000
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$440
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
92.8
Housing:
54.0
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
90.5
Health Care:
94.1
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Polo, IL a safe place to live?
Polo experiences low crime rates, with only 142 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a property crime risk of 1 in 118. This makes the city a safe choice for families and individuals seeking peace of mind. The overall crime index is lower than many urban areas, contributing to its welcoming reputation.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
142
Property Crimes Per 100k:
850
Crime Index:
992
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 705
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 118
Weather
What is the weather like in Polo, IL year-round?
Residents of Polo enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and cold winters dipping to 13°F. The city receives about 36.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny days roughly half the year. This varied climate offers a true Midwest experience throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
50%
Neighbors
Households in Polo typically earn about $54,000 annually, with a family income averaging $68,700 and a poverty rate of 11.3%. Most adults have completed high school, and commute times are short, averaging 23 minutes. The community values education and maintains a low unemployment rate of 4.6%, supporting a stable local economy.
Median Income:
$26,300
Household Income:
$54,000
Family Income:
$68,700
Per Capita Income:
$27,900
Income Male:
$45,700
Income Female:
$32,800
Poverty Rate:
11.3%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$690
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
23.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.8%
Bachelors or More:
16.1%
Education
How are the schools in Polo, IL?
Polo features well-rated public schools with low student-to-teacher ratios, supporting a personalized learning environment. Nearby Sauk Valley Community College offers higher education options just 18 miles away, making continued education accessible. The strong emphasis on education and community involvement benefits families with children of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Polo Community High School
Street:
100 Union Ave
Phone:
815-946-3811
Students:
215
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Name:
Aplington Middle School
Street:
610 N. E. Ave
Phone:
815-946-3816
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8
Name:
Centennial Elementary School
Street:
308 S Pleasant Ave
Phone:
815-946-3812
Students:
230
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2

Colleges
Name:
Sauk Valley Community College
City:
Dixon
State:
IL
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Polo residents have convenient access to healthcare, including the nearby Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital in Dixon. The area has about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people and a high rate of health insurance coverage at nearly 94%. Local healthcare is reliable, providing both emergency and general medical services.

Major Hospitals
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:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.9%
Health Care Index:
72.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Polo, IL?
The housing market in Polo is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $105,000 and owner-occupied homes making up over 70% of the market. Rental options are available, with average rates for a two-bedroom at $690 and a moderate vacancy rate. Home values have seen steady appreciation, making it an attractive option for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$105,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$690
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Driver services for Polo residents are handled by the Illinois Secretary of State facility in nearby Oregon, IL, offering a full range of DMV services. The office is easily accessible for local needs such as licensing, registration, and title transfers. Helpful staff and convenient hours make vehicle-related tasks straightforward.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address:
925 S. 4th St., Oregon, IL 61061
Phone:
815-732-2492
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.