Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Pontiac, IL
Considering a move to Pontiac, IL? With a welcoming population of about 11,500, this small city offers affordable living—median home prices are just $112,000 and average rents around $850. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 21 minutes, solid local schools, and convenient access to healthcare. While crime rates are a bit above the state average, Pontiac boasts a friendly community, a reasonable cost of living index of 77.8, and plenty of sunny Midwestern days. Pontiac's blend of small-town comfort and essential amenities makes it a great choice for those seeking value and community.
Demographics - Pontiac, IL
Demographics - Pontiac, IL
Pontiac, IL is home to about 11,500 residents, with a median age of 40 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White at 84.5%, with a modest mix of other ethnicities, and around 5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. This diverse yet close-knit community offers a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
11,500
Density:
1,750 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
84.5%
Black:
8.1%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
6.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Pontiac, IL?
Living in Pontiac is affordable, with median home values at $112,000 and average rents around $850 per month. The overall cost of living index is 77.8, making it well below the national average, especially for housing and everyday expenses. Residents benefit from reasonable utility costs and stable state taxes.
Median House Value:
$112,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,130
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.8
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
58.0
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
87.5
Health Care:
96.3
Miscellaneous:
92.4
Crime
Is Pontiac, IL a safe place to live?
Pontiac experiences slightly higher crime rates compared to state averages, with a property crime risk of about 1 in 50 and a violent crime chance of 1 in 327. While crime is something to be mindful of, most residents feel secure thanks to active community engagement. Taking standard safety precautions is recommended for peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
306
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,992
Crime Index:
2,298
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 327
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Pontiac, IL year-round?
Pontiac enjoys all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and chilly winters dipping to 16°F. The city receives about 38 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine over half the year, offering a pleasant mix of weather for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring colorful scenery and a true Midwest climate experience.

Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Residents of Pontiac benefit from a median household income of $54,250 and an average commute time of around 21 minutes. The community is largely educated, with over 90% holding a high school diploma, though poverty rates are a bit higher than average at 15%. Most neighbors own their homes, and the small-town feel fosters strong local connections.
Median Income:
$29,800
Household Income:
$54,250
Family Income:
$66,700
Per Capita Income:
$25,200
Income Male:
$38,900
Income Female:
$29,500
Poverty Rate:
15.1%
Non English Speakers:
5.2%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
20.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.8%
Bachelors or More:
18.3%
Education
How are the schools in Pontiac, IL?
Pontiac offers strong educational opportunities, featuring well-rated public schools like Pontiac Township High School and Central Elementary. Private options such as St. Mary's School are also available, and higher education is within reach with Heartland Community College just 30 miles away. The community values education, reflected in high graduation rates and a supportive school environment.

Public Schools
Name:
Pontiac Township High School
Street:
1100 Indiana Ave
Phone:
815-844-6113
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
Central Elementary School
Street:
401 E Indiana Ave
Phone:
815-844-5847
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4

Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary's School
Street:
414 N Main St
Phone:
815-844-6585
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Heartland Community College
City:
Normal
State:
IL
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
4,600
Healthcare
Pontiac provides reliable healthcare access, anchored by OSF Saint James – John W. Albrecht Medical Center offering full emergency services. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, medical needs are well supported. The city maintains a solid healthcare index, ensuring residents have quality care options locally.

Major Hospitals
Name:
OSF Saint James – John W. Albrecht Medical Center
Address:
2500 W Reynolds St, Pontiac, IL 61764
Phone:
(815) 842-2828
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Pontiac, IL?
Pontiac's housing market is attractive, with a median home price of $112,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $850. Around 66% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees steady appreciation, making it ideal for both buyers and renters. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates contribute to a stable and accessible housing environment.
Median Home Price:
$112,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Pontiac residents can access driver and vehicle services at the Illinois Secretary of State Facility located on N Ladd St. The local DMV provides all standard licensing and registration services and is easily reachable for city residents. Additional information and online services are available through the Illinois Secretary of State website.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Facility
Address:
601 N Ladd St, Pontiac, IL 61764
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.