Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sterling, IL
Considering a move to Sterling, IL? This welcoming city of about 14,800 residents features affordable living, with median home prices around $108,500 and average rents near $800. Commutes are short—averaging just 15 minutes—and the area boasts a solid healthcare center and good schools. Sterling experiences all four seasons, has a moderate crime rate, and maintains a small-town community feel, making it a practical choice for families or anyone seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle.
Demographics - Sterling, IL
Demographics - Sterling, IL
Sterling, IL is home to approximately 14,800 residents, with a population density of 2,400 people per square mile and a median age of 39.2 years. The community is predominantly White, but nearly 20% identify with other backgrounds, and about 13% speak a language other than English at home, reflecting some cultural diversity.
Population:
14,803
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
76.7%
Black:
2.6%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
19.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sterling, IL?
Sterling offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $108,500 and average rent around $800 per month. Living expenses are well below the national average, making it a budget-friendly option for families and individuals alike.
Median House Value:
$108,500
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
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:
78.1
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
52.3
Utilities:
98.1
Transportation:
91.5
Health Care:
95.2
Miscellaneous:
87.8
Crime
Is Sterling, IL a safe place to live?
The city experiences moderate crime rates, with a chance of 1 in 455 for violent crime and 1 in 54 for property crime annually. Residents generally find Sterling to be a safe and welcoming place, though staying aware of property security is advised.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
220
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,850
Crime Index:
2,070
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 455
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 54
Weather
What is the weather like in Sterling, IL year-round?
Sterling enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and cold winters averaging lows of 15°F. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine about 55% of the year, providing a balanced Midwestern climate.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
Local households earn a median income of $50,721, and the poverty rate stands at 13.6%. Most residents commute just over 15 minutes to work, and while the majority have completed high school, a smaller percentage hold college degrees.
Median Income:
$28,400
Household Income:
$50,721
Family Income:
$63,400
Per Capita Income:
$25,800
Income Male:
$38,200
Income Female:
$28,400
Poverty Rate:
13.6%
Non English Speakers:
13.4%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
15.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.6%
Bachelors or More:
15.2%
Education
How are the schools in Sterling, IL?
Sterling offers a range of educational options, including public schools like Sterling High School and Challand Middle School, as well as private and parochial choices. Higher education is nearby at Sauk Valley Community College, just 8 miles away, supporting local students’ academic needs.
Public Schools
Name:
Sterling High School
Street:
1608 4th Ave
Phone:
815-625-6800
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.1
Name:
Challand Middle School
Street:
1700 6th Ave
Phone:
815-626-3300
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary Catholic School
Street:
6 W 6th St
Phone:
815-625-2253
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Sauk Valley Community College
City:
Dixon
State:
IL
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Sterling is served by the CGH Medical Center, offering general and emergency care to the community. Healthcare access is strong, with nearly 94% of residents insured and a physician availability close to the national average.
Major Hospitals
Name:
CGH Medical Center
Address:
100 E LeFevre Rd, Sterling, IL 61081
Phone:
(815) 625-0400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.2%
Health Care Index:
67.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sterling, IL?
The housing market in Sterling is affordable, with a median home price of $108,500 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 61%. Home appreciation is modest, and rental options are available, making it accessible for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$108,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver services at the Illinois Secretary of State facility in nearby Rock Falls. The DMV provides standard licensing and vehicle services, with information available through the state website.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address:
3107 IL-30, 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.