Illinois / Whiteside County

Moving to Sterling, IL

Thinking of making a move to Sterling, IL? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sterling, IL

Considering a move to Sterling, IL? This welcoming community of 14,803 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $108,500 and average rents near $800. Commute times average 16 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (55% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Sterling's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Sterling, IL

Sterling has a population of 14,803 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 39 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 77% White, 3% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 13% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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?

The cost of living in Sterling is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 78.1. Median home values are around $108,500 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $800. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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?

Sterling is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 220 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 54. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Illinois.

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 experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 85°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 55% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
15°F
Max
32°F

Summer

Min
62°F
Max
85°F

Spring

Min
38°F
Max
65°F

Fall

Min
40°F
Max
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches
36.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
55%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $50,721 and a low poverty rate of 13.6%. Over 86% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 15% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 16 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 quality education options, with public schools like Sterling High School and Challand Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Sauk Valley Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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 residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like CGH Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.9 per 1,000 people and 94.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
CGH Medical Center
Address
100 E LeFevre Rd, Sterling, IL 61081
Phone
(815) 625-0400
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

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 local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $108,500 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 61%. The market has seen a 2.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 8.6%. Sterling offers a mix of stability and opportunity 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 of Sterling handle vehicle services through the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility, conveniently located in Rock Falls. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Illinois
Department
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address
3107 IL-30, Rock Falls, IL 61071
Phone
1-800-252-8980

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.

FAQs About Moving to Sterling, IL

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Sterling, review the core fields on this page: population 14,803, median home value $108,500, average rent for 2 bedroom $800, commute time 15.6 minutes, and sunny days percentage 55%.

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