Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wataga, IL
Thinking of moving to Wataga, IL? This small town of 744 residents offers affordable living, with home prices around $86,500 and average rents at $750. Enjoy a quiet community with low violent crime rates (112 per 100K), average commutes of 23 minutes, and a friendly small-town vibe. Wataga features strong owner-occupancy, local elementary schooling, and easy access to nearby Galesburg for healthcare and higher education. Experience four seasons and a relaxed pace perfect for families or those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Demographics - Wataga, IL
Demographics - Wataga, IL
Wataga, Illinois is a close-knit community of 744 people, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 41.3 years. The town features a balanced gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, offering a friendly and familiar small-town atmosphere.
Population:
744
Density:
1,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.3
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.2%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.1%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wataga, IL?
Living in Wataga is highly affordable, with a median home value of $86,500 and average rent of $750 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$86,500
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$940
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.0
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
49.2
Utilities:
98.4
Transportation:
93.0
Health Care:
97.0
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Wataga, IL a safe place to live?
Wataga enjoys a low violent crime rate, with only 112 incidents per 100,000 residents, providing peace of mind for families and individuals. Property crime is more common but remains manageable, contributing to the town’s overall safe and welcoming environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
112
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,080
Crime Index:
1,192
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 892
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 92
Weather
What is the weather like in Wataga, IL year-round?
Residents in Wataga experience all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The area receives about 38 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine over half the year, making it pleasant for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
33°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Households in Wataga typically earn around $58,400, with a poverty rate of 11.2% and a high school graduation rate exceeding 92%. Commute times are moderate at just over 23 minutes, reflecting the town's small size and relaxed pace of life.
Median Income:
$35,400
Household Income:
$58,400
Family Income:
$68,700
Per Capita Income:
$26,200
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.8%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
23.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
14.5%
Education
How are the schools in Wataga, IL?
Wataga supports a local elementary school with small class sizes and provides easy access to higher education at Carl Sandburg College and Knox College in neighboring Galesburg. The community emphasizes education, with a majority of adults holding at least a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Wataga Elementary School
Street:
400 N Depot St
Phone:
(309) 375-3151
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Colleges
Name:
Carl Sandburg College
City:
Galesburg
State:
IL
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
2,000
Name:
Knox College
City:
Galesburg
State:
IL
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Wataga residents have access to quality healthcare services nearby, including OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg. Most residents are insured, and physician availability is in line with national averages, ensuring convenient care for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
OSF St. Mary Medical Center
Address:
3333 N Seminary St, Galesburg, IL 61401
Phone:
(309) 344-3161
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
71.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wataga, IL?
The housing market in Wataga is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $86,500 and an owner-occupancy rate above 80%. Home appreciation is steady, and rental options are available at reasonable rates, making homeownership accessible for many.
Median Home Price:
$86,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can handle their licensing and vehicle needs at the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility in nearby Galesburg. This conveniently located DMV offers essential services for drivers and new residents moving to the area.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility
Address:
400 W Main St, Galesburg, IL 61401
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.