A historic neighborhood where neighbors know each other's names
One of the oldest neighborhoods in Decatur, West End is known for its historic architectural styles and access to public parks. A good portion of the neighborhood was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002, ensuring the protection of many vintage homes and the area's quiet residential makeup. The commute to downtown Decatur is only 2 miles, and locals can avoid the bustle and train noise of the city center. There's a sense of community along these storied streets, too. "We get to know our neighbors here," says Patrick McDaniel, a Decatur City Councilman who has lived in West End for over 50 years. "There's a sense of community in each block — we will get permission from the city to close off the streets for Fourth of July parties or other events."
Houses in West End's historical area are well kept and spacious.
West End residents can enjoy the quiet peace of suburban life.
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Unique architecture on charming streets
The streets of West End are a collage of vintage homes, with many built in the early 1900s. Smaller bungalows have front porches and larger colonial revivals stand out with stately front columns. There are some ranch-style and split-level homes from the 1950s and 60s, too. "West End is the top pick for people looking for unique architectural styles," says Shelby Younker, a Realtor with Agency One & Real Estate who has over five years of experience selling in the city. "Each one has individual character." With this range of styles comes a range of prices. Fixer-upper homes start around $50,000, and more renovated properties go in the mid $100,000. Properties with more than 3,000 square feet can get up to $250,000. "The streets are really charming," Younker says. "They are lined with mature trees, and you see people walking their dogs or playing with their kids outside."
West End has many Colonial Homes, especially within the Historic District.
West End has many midcentury homes.
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Direct access to the largest park in the city
West End is surrounded by a network of trails, ponds, and public parks, which provide an outdoor escape within minutes of every home. Kiwanis Park is a neighborhood park with a playground, sports courts, and trailheads that connect for miles across the city. However, the most notable attraction in the area is Fairview Park, which has 185 acres of recreational activities. There are tennis and pickleball courts, a skate area with ramps, and the Fido Field dog runs. "Fairview has a small lake that only young kids can go fishing on, and when it freezes over, people sometimes go skating," McDaniel says. The park's playground is undergoing a $1.2 million renovation to install more modern and accessibility-friendly structures, expected to be finished in late 2024. In addition to renovations, there's been a push to hold more events there. In 2024, the parks department had a roller derby and a Mac 'n Cheese Festival.
Families gather at the Kiwanis Park playground, where fun and adventure await young ones.
The West End Bike Trail is the perfect place for a quiet and peaceful walk.
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Renovations at Fairview Park to mitigate flooding issues
The neighborhood is surrounded by the Sangamon River and Stevens Creek, two watersheds that FEMA categorizes as Special Hazard Flood Zones, meaning there is a 1% annual chance of flooding. However, only a few homes in the neighborhood are in these at-risk areas. Fairview Park has flooded in the past, but a complete overhaul of the storm sewer system in early 2024 has significantly reduced the chance of water build-up.
Birds gather near friends feeding them at Fairview Park’s serene water's edge.
Fairview Park has ample trails and space for West End locals looking to run or cycle,
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Project-based learning at Dennis Lab School
Local kids are zoned for Dennis Lab School, which serves kindergarten through eighth grade and gets a C-minus rating on Niche. It's the only school in the district to use project-based learning, a teaching technique where kids create a real-world solution to a problem of their choosing every year. Students also enjoy learning outdoors in the school's community garden. The Dennis Lab School building is usually walkable for many kids, but it is undergoing renovations that are expected to be done in 2025. During the renovations, kids have been relocated to Garfield Learning Academy on the city's south side. The neighborhood's older kids are zoned for MacArthur High, which gets a C rating.
Maranatha Christian Academy creates an inspiring atmosphere for learning.
West End residents can send their students to Dennis Lab School.
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Performances at Millikin's arts center and fitness classes at the DISC
The West End neighborhood borders Millikin University, a private institution with less than 2,000 undergraduate students. The college has a few attractions for West End residents, like music, dance and performing arts events at the Kirkland Fine Arts Center. The Kirkland Center showcases student talent and world-renowned performers and is less than a mile from most homes. In terms of university sports, the baseball games are a standout, with a field that was freshly renovated in 2019. "Having the events at Millikin University right next door is fantastic," McDaniel says. "We also really enjoy being so close to the Decatur Indoor Sports Center, which everyone calls the DISC." The DISC is not affiliated with the university and is open to any Decatur residents for fitness classes, open gym and children's summer camps.
West End locals can watch local baseball games at the Millkin Baseball field.
West End locals can visit Kirkland Fine Arts Center's gallery.
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College dives and a 2-mile drive to the grocery store
The Fairview Shopping Center, about a mile north, is the closest retail hub. Unfortunately, the center's Kroger closed in 2018, meaning residents now have to drive a bit farther for grocery options. The center still has a Dollar Tree, and a few small restaurants, but the nearest Kroger is about 2 miles south. There's another small restaurant hub outside Millikin University, often frequented by college kids. Sky City Grill is known for its wings, and Winery Bar has smash burgers and a late-night dive atmosphere.
West End's I-84 acts as the main thoroughfare for West End commuters.
Don't be fooled, the Winery near West End has some of the best burgers in town.
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Quick trips to downtown and bus lines
Downtown Decatur is 2 miles away, about a 20-minute ride on the public bus. West End is also well-positioned close to Interstate 72. Getting on the interstate from the neighborhood takes about five minutes, and the major road heads straight out to Springfield, 40 miles away. For air travel, Decatur does have its own airport on the other side of the city. But it's a small regional airport, and most flights connect through O'Hare Airport in Chicago.
West End locals can commute to Downtown to catch a flick at Lincoln Theater.
Decatur Brew Works donwtown is the spot for great music and drinks for West End Residents.
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Written By
Catherine Lashley
Photography Contributed By
Josue Johnson
Video By
Derek Fowler
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West End Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in West End, Decatur sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in West End, Decatur over the last 12 months is $133,000, down 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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Super Cute West End Charmer ! Mix of Old & New ~~ Great Location ~Seller Has Lived Here For Many Years ~~ Just Down the Street From Fairview Park, Duck Pond & Tennis Courts ~~3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths ~~ Main Floor Bath & Big Bright & Sunny Great Room Addition With Vaulted Ceiling & Windows Overlooking A Beautiful Back Yard :-) (Seller actually used as a 1st flr. Master The Last Couple Years ) Living
Charming West End Home with Classic & Modern AppealDiscover the perfect blend of timeless charm and contemporary comfort in this inviting West End home. A beautifully designed mix of classic details and modern updates creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout. Step outside to enjoy the newly added porch-an ideal spot for morning coffee or evening relaxation-surrounded by thoughtfully
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Completely remodeled home located in the lovely West End. Spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom home that comes with fridge, stove, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and washer/dryer. Pets are okay with a pet deposit and additional monthly pet rent, limit to two.
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