Loading neighborhood data…
Champaign, IL
Champaign · Champaign County · IL 61820
Updated October 13, 2026 · Would You Live There?
Think twice
Verdict
$185K
Median Price
75/100
Walk Score
6.8/10
Schools
162 min
to Chicago Loop
Score Breakdown
DAffordability
45/100
D+Safety
55/100
C+Schools
68/100
D+Quietness
50/100
FCommute
15/100
BWalkability
75/100
WYLT Score51/100
Our Take
Champaign offers cheap housing and decent transit, but the high flood risk, low income levels, and long commute to major jobs make it a risky choice for most people.
B.
Visiting Champaign before you decide?
Scout the neighborhood in person — find hotels near Champaign.
Find hotels on Booking.com →Community Poll
Would you move to Champaign?
Explore this neighborhood
Ready to make the move?
Compare local moving labor and truck rental help, then book movers for your move to Champaign.
Get moving quotes on HireAHelper →Map
Loading map…
The Good
- ✓Low median home price ($156k) makes home ownership affordable
- ✓Excellent transit score (70) and bike score (80) for getting around
- ✓College town gives nightlife, cultural events and a youthful vibe
- ✓High walkability for grocery and basic errands (Walk Score 60)
Real Talk
- !High flood risk (Flood Zone AE) means costly flood insurance
- !Median household income ($33k) is well below national average, so jobs and wages are low
- !Commute to Chicago Loop takes over 2.5 hours (162 minutes) so it’s hard to access big city jobs
- !Crime rates around university areas tend to be higher than suburban averages
- $Flood insurance premiums
- $Higher property taxes typical of Illinois towns
- $Utility costs can be elevated due to climate and heating needs
Best For
college studentsremote workersbudget‑conscious familiesbike enthusiasts
Risk Snapshot
Flood riskHigh
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityGood
Price volatilityModerate
Crime & Safety
Champaign, IL
D+
Safety grade
Safety score55 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Moderate3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+
5% higher than the national average
🔒Property Crime
Moderate19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+
2% higher than the national average
Verify with real-time data
City-Data stats →From Residents
🏘
Loading…
📬
Stay in the loop on Champaign
Get one email when this report refreshes (~every 90 days). No spam.
Know someone considering this area? Send them this report.
wouldyoulivethere.com/report/champaign-il-61820