Decatur, IL
Decatur · Macon County · IL 62521
Updated August 1, 2026 · Would You Live There?
Think twice
Verdict
$125K
Median Price
46/100
Walk Score
6.7/10
Schools
210 min
to Chicago Loop
Score Breakdown
Our Take
Decatur is a small, affordable town with decent schools and a quiet, family‑friendly vibe, but the walk score is almost zero, transit options are scarce, and the commute to Chicago is over three and a half hours. If you’re moving for a local job and can tolerate a car‑centric lifestyle, it’s workable. If you’re looking for a vibrant urban feel or easy access to a major city, consider other places.
Visiting Decatur before you decide?
Scout the neighborhood in person — find hotels near Decatur.
Find hotels on Booking.com →Community Poll
Would you move to Decatur?
Explore this neighborhood
Ready to make the move?
Compare local moving labor and truck rental help, then book movers for your move to Decatur.
Get moving quotes on HireAHelper →Map
The Good
- ✓Very affordable housing (median $119k),
- ✓Good public schools with a mix of traditional and charter options
- ✓Low cost of living and property taxes
- ✓Strong sense of community and local events
Real Talk
- !Long commute to Chicago (210 minutes) and lack of public transit
- !Limited nightlife and dining options
- !High reliance on cars—poor walkability
- !Median household income ($63k) is below state median
- $Higher car insurance due to car‑centric area
- $Potentially higher utility costs during hot summers
- $Ongoing commute expenses if driving to nearby cities
Best For
Risk Snapshot
Crime & Safety
Decatur, IL
Safety grade
57% safer than the national average
2% higher than the national average
Verify with real-time data
City-Data stats →From Residents
Loading…
Stay in the loop on Decatur
Get one email when this report refreshes (~every 90 days). No spam.
Know someone considering this area? Send them this report.
wouldyoulivethere.com/report/decatur-il-62521