Let the numbers do the talking.
Champaign, IL vs Peoria, IL
Champaign, IL vs Peoria, IL: What the data shows
Champaign, IL is in Champaign, IL while Peoria, IL is in Peoria, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Champaign, IL is the more affordable option at $156,600 median — $78,900 less than Peoria, IL's $235,500. WYLT rates Champaign, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Peoria, IL as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Champaign, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Peoria, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Champaign, IL has High flood risk and Peoria, IL has Low flood risk.
Champaign, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Champaign, IL scores 60/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Peoria, IL's 15/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Champaign, IL has the higher school rating — Champaign, IL rates 7.1/10 and Peoria, IL rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Champaign, IL | Peoria, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $157K ✓ Lower price | $236K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $826 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $33K ✓ Higher income | $20K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 60/100 ✓ More walkable | 15/100 |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 18/100 |
| Commute | 162 min ✓ Shorter commute | 197 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | college studentsremote workersbudget‑conscious families | low‑income rentersretireesstudents |
Bottom line
For budget-conscious families, college students, or remote workers, Champaign is a more viable option due to its lower housing costs and better transit options. However, for retirees, low-income renters, or families prioritizing affordability over amenities, Peoria's lower cost of living may be a better fit, albeit with significant trade-offs. Overall, Peoria's many drawbacks outweigh its limited affordability advantages.
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