Why Live in Spencer Park
Spencer Park in Decatur is a quaint neighborhood characterized by its mid-20th-century homes, primarily low-slung ranch styles and bungalows, averaging around 1,000 square feet. The area has a sparse suburban feel with grassy lawns and no sidewalks, and while many properties have less than a quarter-acre yard, some extend to half an acre. Locke Park, a local green space built in 2013, features a playground, basketball court, and a short walking trail, providing a peaceful retreat from the nearby train noise. The former Spencer Park site is now the ADM Wellness Center, accessible to ADM employees and their spouses. Dining options include Debbie's Diner, known for its retro charm and daily specials, while grocery needs are met by Save A Lot, located 2 miles away. Community engagement is fostered through local churches like Faith Fellowship Christian Church and organizations such as the Northeast Community Fund, which offers essential services and events. Transportation to downtown Decatur, 4 miles away, is facilitated by bus line 41, though the nearby railroad can occasionally disrupt travel. Spencer Park's schools, Hope Academy and Eisenhower High School, offer average ratings, with Eisenhower providing opportunities for students to earn an associate's degree through a partnership with Richland Community College.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Spencer Park a good place to live?
Spencer Park is a good place to live. Spencer Park is considered very car-dependent and somewhat bikeable. Spencer Park is a suburban neighborhood. It has a median age of 45. The average household income is $48,420 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 7.1% of residents. A majority of residents in Spencer Park are home owners, with 29.5% of residents renting and 70.5% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving Spencer Park can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
Spencer Park neighborhood guide.
Is Spencer Park, IL a safe neighborhood?
Spencer Park, IL is less safe than the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 6 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in Spencer Park?
The median home price in Spencer Park is $80,000. If you put a 20% down payment of $16,000 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.75%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $420 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $18K a year to afford the median home price in Spencer Park. The average household income in Spencer Park is $48K.
What are the best public schools in Spencer Park?
The best public schools that serve Spencer Park are:
- Eisenhower High School has a C+ Niche grade, a student teacher ratio of 17:1 and an average review score of 3.5.
- Hope Academy has a C- Niche grade and a student teacher ratio of 20:1.
What are the best private schools in Spencer Park?
The best private schools that serve Spencer Park are:
What are the most popular zip codes in Spencer Park, Decatur, IL?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near Spencer Park, Decatur, IL?
Home Trends in Spencer Park, IL
On average, homes in Spencer Park, Decatur sell after 3 days on the market compared to the national average of 51 days. The median sale price for homes in Spencer Park, Decatur over the last 12 months is $78,000, up 44% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$78,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$78,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$99
Last 12 months Home Sales
3
Median List Price
$80,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
44%
