$274,658Average Value$118Average Price per Sq Ft23Homes For Sale
The "Crossroads of Opportunity"
Set at the intersection of two major highways, Effingham is a midwestern thoroughfare for business travel and vacation. As a result, the “Crossroads of Opportunity” has grown into a highlight of Central Illinois, with more attractions and annual events than might be expected for a city of 12,000. This atmosphere, combined with lower-than-average real estate prices and a variety of job opportunities, make this seat of Effingham County more than just a pit stop on the way to Chicago. “We have a unique community with a lot of amenities we wouldn’t have without the intersection,” says Jodi Theole, executive director of tourism for Effingham. “We still consider ourselves a small town despite that — it makes our community a fun place to work, live and play.”
Enjoy the history and convenience of downtown Effingham.
Find affordable homes of all styles and sizes throughout Effingham.
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Strong tourism and medical industries
The tourism industry employs many locals for attractions, not to mention the storefronts and restaurants that support it. The medical field is one of the top employers in the area, supported by HSHS St. Anthony Memorial Hospital and the headquarters for Heartland Dental. Other business headquarters in Effingham include The Equity, Kiefer Campgrounds and John Boos & Co. Manufacturing and distribution jobs are available with companies like Flex N Gate and Sherwin Williams.
The city's median price for real estate is in the low $200,000s, about half of the national median. Traditional red brick homes from the early 20th century are positioned around the town center, while midcentury-inspired houses from the 1980s and '90s fill the streets east of Lake Pauline.
Local shops like Baseball Card Connection offers visitors and residents all sorts of sports memorabilia.
Mid-century brick cottages can be found in the older downtown neighborhoods of Effingham.
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Festivities and the Cross at the Crossroads
One of Effingham's best-known attractions is the Cross at the Crossroads: a 198-foot-tall cross that overlooks the connection of Interstates 57 and 70. Made of 180 tons of steel plate, the cross stands just under 200 feet to avoid regulations from the Federal Aviation Administration that would require aircraft warning lights. Local hubs for culture and the arts include the Effingham Performance Center, the Effingham County Cultural Center and the MY Garage Museum, which offers an up-close look at rare Corvettes, Volkswagens and a wide variety of auto memorabilia. The venue is also responsible for two annual car shows: the VW Funfest and Corvette Funfest.
The Moccasin Creek Festival is a three-day summer music festival held yearly at Lake Sara. In addition to a variety of Americana acts, the festival offers food, family friendly activities and spaces for camping. “We have so many different annual events, and we draw people from all over the region for them,” says Theole.
Watch nationally recognized acts at the Effingham Performance Center.
Learn about Effingham and the surrounding area at the Effingham County Cultural Center.
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Indoor swimming at Workman Sports and Wellness Complex
Effingham's Community Park is a local hub, with residents coming to take advantage of its 18-hole disc golf course, baseball fields, tennis courts and outdoor ice skating rink. Handelmeyer Park is the home of the city's pickleball complex and skate park, while Evergreen Hollow Park is known for its scenic tree walk. In addition to two indoor pools and several athletic courts, Workman Sports and Wellness Complex hosts classes, guided exercise and youth league athletics.
Play tennis, baseball, and basketball at Effingham Community Park.
Swim a couple of laps at the Workman Sports & Wellness Center in Effingham.
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A hub for the intersection of I-57 and I-70
A major crossroads in Effingham has defined the city for generations. Interstate 57 stretches from Chicago to Missouri, while Interstate 70 runs from Utah to Maryland. Central Illinois Regional Airport at Bloomington-Normal works with four airlines, providing daily flights to cities like Atlanta, Denver and Chicago.
One of the county's top high schools
Effingham Community Unit School District No. 40 oversees six public schools in the area, including Effingham High School, which Niche considers the third-best public high school in the county. Niche gives the district an overall B-minus, with particular accolades for its teachers and food.
Effingham Junior High School prepares students for their journey into high school.
Sacred Heart School in Effingham serves 219 students in grades K-8.
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Boutique shopping downtown
The majority of shopping is done in the northwest section of town, where familiar franchises and big box stores are located. Downtown, however, has an assortment of locally owned storefronts and restaurants, including casual diners like Lucia's Italian Kitchen and Gabby Goat American Pub & Grill. “We have a charming, Hallmark-esque downtown,” says Theole.
Shops Country Peddlers and Rosebud Boutique offers residents of Effingham new-to-you finds.
Head to Gabby Goat American Pub & Grill in Effingham for great food and a drink.
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Important to know
According to FBI statistics, Effingham's violent and property-related crimes have been on the decline since 2020. However, the city's per capita violent crime rate is higher than the national average, while property crime is lower. Effingham 2050 is a comprehensive city plan that determines the city's long-term plans, including economic development, infrastructure and urban design. While it is still under development, city officials will allow the public to offer opinions and suggestions as details are finalized.
Written By
Phil Keeling
Photography Contributed By
Ethan Babor
Video By
Patrick Johnson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Carol Meinhart,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Effingham, IL sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Effingham, IL over the last 12 months is $208,750, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this stunning lakeside retreat in the desirable Lake Edward subdivision of Effingham, IL. Beautiful setting with a circle drive, you're met with lovely perennials and a charming entry to the home. Once inside, you'll find you are welcomed with the elegant formal dining and living rooms that provide the perfect space for entertaining, while the cozy gas and wood fireplaces add warmth
Timeless character meets thoughtful updates in this beautifully maintained 1.5-story home just blocks from Effingham City Park. Hardwood floors, original wood doors, and detailed trim create warmth throughout, while the updated kitchen features quartz countertops, painted cabinetry, and modern hardware. An arched doorway leads into the dining area, highlighted by a charming built-in breakfast
Discover 31.13 acres of wooded & brush ground nestled between the Little Wabash River and the Country Club in Effingham, Illinois. This unique property combines two tracts of land, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by mature woods and thick brush-creating the perfect habitat for abundant wildlife. Abundant Deer markings are everywhere, making this an ideal setting for hunters, nature lovers,
Easy Living at its Finest in Mini Hills! You won't want to miss this Custom 3 bed 3.5 bath condo-sytle end unit home! It has all the high-end finishes one could want: granite countertops, wood floors, butler pantry, vaulted ceilings, and so on! Master Suite on the main floor with a large bathroom and walk-in closet. A Great Layout with lots of Natural Light! Two gas fireplaces, a great screened
You won't want to miss this beautiful 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom home at the end of a cul-de-sac with amazing views of the meadow below. Sitting on 3.84 acres this home has been nicely updated with newer flooring and kitchen countertops. Step inside to a spacious living room with a see thru fireplace, and large windows to enjoy those amazing views. The large kitchen and dining area is every families
Be prepared to be amazed by this stunning 8 bedroom, 6 bathroom home in Prairie View Estates, located on just over 2 acres. This home is pure luxury. It has a kitchen that is every chefs dream, with Stremming custom cabinets. The kitchen opens up to the family room with a gas fireplace and large glass windows to allow so much natural light into the room. Off the Family room will be a luxurious
Calling all Lake Sara buyers! This property is located on Lake Sara in Effingham, IL. Lake Sara is a very sought out man made lake that was created in 1957. Spanning of private coves, restaurants, and beautiful homes; just like this property! Built in 2021, this contemporary style home offers 4 bedrooms, 3-1/2 baths, over 2,500 above grade square footage, and finishes that will take your breath
With some TLC this home could be a great starter home. The house needs some updating in flooring, paint and cabinets. It is livable as is so you could stay as you fix it up. Three bedrooms along with front and back enclosed porches. The house sits on .23 acres and comes with a lot to the east of home adding another .23 acres for a total of .46 acres. One car detached garage with a dirt floor.
.52 (+/-) Acre lake lot - touches the water and has add'l ground on other bank. Perfect for the kids for play area or picnic spot; Great lot for walkout basement
Welcome to your dream lake house, a stunning, completely custom-built retreat boasting over 4,600 finished square feet of luxurious living space. Located on the main body of the lake, directly across from Pinky’s, this home offers unparalleled views and direct access to the serene waters. Built in 2022, the residence combines modern design with high-end finishes throughout, including a
Vacant Building Lot waiting for Your New Home in Sought After Stoneridge Subdivison! Check out this nearly 1 acre lot on a cul-de-sac on Willow Ridge Drive! Close enough to town and Lake Sara, just a great location! HOA $360 per year. Building restrictions in place.
Welcome to this beautiful well maintained quality home located in Park Hills. This stunning 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths, and full finished walk out basement is move in ready! Inside you will find an open foyer, with open staircase leading to the upper level with a loft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and cathedral ceilings. Lots of natural light. The kitchen has premium cabinets and appliances for that perfect
Melodie CornwellAuction/Realty by Schackmann, Inc.
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