Small and pleasant, Peoria has had a presence in Illinois since its establishment in the central part of the state in 1691. It’s set in a level tableland on the Illinois River, and is surrounded by gently rolling terrain. Peoria’s median age is 35.4 (2022), and its main industries are healthcare, education, insurance, government, finance, and leisure and hospitality.

In 2022, US News & World Report ranked Peoria as the best place to live in Illinois. New residents will discover homes in Prairie, Italianate, Victorian, and Queen Anne styles. The average price of a home here is $113,976, which is up 13.5% over the past year (Zillow, 2022). Events, such as the Peoria Bach Festival, Taste of Peoria, and the Labor Day Parade & Picnic, help keep residents engaged and entertained year-round.

Getting in and out of Peoria is easy, I-74 running through the city, I-474 running north-south in the west end. The neighborhood of West Peoria sits near I-74, and offers a variety of housing options to both families and individuals. U.S. Route 150 is adjacent to Peoria Heights, a walkable neighborhood that has a “hometown” feel and various homes for growing families.

Known as “The River City” to locals, people love living across Peoria’s 50.5 square miles for its low cost of living and outdoor recreation.