Why Live in South Shores
South Shores in Decatur is a suburban neighborhood situated along the southernmost basin of Lake Decatur. The area features a mix of midcentury ranch-style homes, primarily from the 1950s to '70s, with compact lawns and detached garages. Homes are generally smaller, often under 1,000 square feet, fostering a tight-knit community atmosphere. The neighborhood is relatively safe, with crime rates lower than the national average. South Shores Park, central to the neighborhood, offers tennis and pickleball courts, a playground, and baseball diamonds, making it a popular spot for after-school activities. While the neighborhood borders Lake Decatur, public lake access is limited to Fisherman's Wharf, a small dock for fishing. For more extensive lakeside activities, residents drive 3 miles to Nelson Park. The South Towne Plaza, less than a mile from most homes, provides convenient shopping and dining options, including a Kroger, several pharmacies, and eateries like The Wharf Kitchen & Bar and Guadalajara. Downtown Decatur is just 2 miles away, accessible via US Route 51, which offers scenic views of the lake. Public transportation is available, with bus stops throughout the neighborhood connecting to downtown in about 10 minutes. The Decatur Fire Department Station 6 is located nearby, ensuring quick emergency response times, though the southwest train track can bring occasional noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Shores a good place to live?
South Shores is a good place to live. South Shores is considered car-dependent and somewhat bikeable. South Shores has 3 parks for recreational activities. It has a median age of 42. The average household income is $75,362 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 34.6% of residents. A majority of residents in South Shores are home owners, with 24.9% of residents renting and 75.1% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving South Shores can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
South Shores neighborhood guide.
Is South Shores, IL a safe neighborhood?
South Shores, IL is safer than the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 3 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in South Shores?
The median home price in South Shores is $369,115. If you put a 20% down payment of $73,800 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.74%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $1,910 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $82K a year to afford the median home price in South Shores. The average household income in South Shores is $75K.
What are the best public schools in South Shores?
The best public schools that serve South Shores are:
What are the best private schools in South Shores?
The best private schools that serve South Shores are:
What are the most popular zip codes in South Shores, Decatur, IL?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near South Shores, Decatur, IL?
Home Trends in South Shores, IL
On average, homes in South Shores, Decatur sell after 96 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in South Shores, Decatur over the last 12 months is $345,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$345,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$427,830
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$694,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$280,000
Median 1 Bedroom Sale Price
$345,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$331
Number of Homes for Sale
5
Last 12 months Home Sales
95
Median List Price
$369,115
Median Change From 1st List Price
2%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
6%