Low-cost homes and a quiet lifestyle await in Abingdon
Abingdon is a small village surrounded by cornfields about 50 miles west of Peoria. Like many other rural Illinois towns, Abingdon has been slowly losing residents due to limited job opportunities. Its current population is around 3,000, and commerce is on the downswing. But the regional hub of Galesburg is roughly 10 miles away, and low housing prices lure budget-conscious buyers who prefer to take life at a slower pace. “I’ve been moving a lot of people to Abingdon because the cost of living is affordable, but it’s a nice area that’s great for families,” says Melissa Miner, who grew up in Abingdon and currently works as a Realtor with Western Illinois Realty.
National and ranch-style homes line shaded residential streets
Tall, leafy trees and sidewalks border most residential streets, some of which are too narrow for two cars to pass at once. Some cottages, National and colonial homes date to the early 1900s, but more construction occurred between 1950 and 1980. Lot sizes measure up to half an acre with gravel driveways, attached or detached garages and shaded yards. “Someone recently moved here from a big city, and they were surprised that we have open yards instead of fences,” says Tammy Poland, deputy city clerk. “Welcome to life in a small town.” National homes and small cottages sell for $50,000 to $150,000, while most ranch-style homes cost $150,000 to $225,000. Home prices are typically lower than in Galesburg — the median single-family home sale price in Abingdon is around $40,000, whereas the median single-family home sale price in Galesburg is around $135,000.
Centrally located bars, pizza parlors and grocery options
A collage-style mural adorns the brick exterior of local watering hole Victory Tavern, and La Roma Pizza slings its signature pies next door. Takeout pizza at regional chain Casey’s General Store has a strong local following. Carolyn & Company Café and Bakery specializes in homemade pies and hearty breakfast and lunch fare. Hi-Lo Grocery and DG Market are convenient grocery options.
Route 41 connects residents to Galesburg and beyond
Illinois Route 41 leads about 10 miles north to Galesburg, where residents find more restaurants and retail, health care services at OSF St. Mary Medical Center and a train station served by several Amtrak routes. Travelers have a 45-mile drive to General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport and a 50-mile ride to downtown Peoria.
Students attend schools in the Abingdon-Avon school district
Students attend Hedding Grade School from kindergarten through fourth grade. The grade school receives a C-plus from Niche, and Abingdon-Avon Middle School is rated C. Students at the C-plus-rated Abingdon-Avon High School can attend trade courses at the Galesburg Area Vocational Center.
Playgrounds and shaded picnic spots at Abingdon parks
Across the street from the high school, Legion Park features playground equipment, a sheltered picnic area, a baseball field, a basketball court and plenty of shade. “Big Daddy,” the tallest totem pole east of the Mississippi River, marks the entrance to Rotary Park, a pocket of green space near the downtown area. Mature trees lend shade to the benches, picnic areas and small playground.
Abingdon churches host food bank outreach and community events
Several of Abingdon’s churches maintain a strong community presence. Abingdon United Methodist Church, Christian Church of Abingdon and several others participate in food bank outreach programs. New Harvest Church hosts events throughout the year, including senior potlucks and the Glory Days festival, a family-friendly August event with bounce houses, food and games.
Livestock, pro wrestling and family-friendly fun at Abingdon's fair
The Abingdon Community Festival is a staple of the social calendar. Most locals refer to it simply as “the fair.” The five-day event takes place in late August and includes livestock and pro wrestling shows, arts and crafts exhibits, a chicken and pig scramble and a costume pageant for the kids.
