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
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Reach out to
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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 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Effingham, IL over the last 12 months is $374,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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
Don’t miss this 4 bed/1 bath home with two bedrooms and full bath on the main level and two additional bedrooms upstairs. New roof in 2020. Rheem 95% Efficient Gas Furnace, full unfinished basement. Sizeable backyard with storage shed. This home is a must- see!
Move-in ready brick ranch on a corner lot with numerous updates throughout. Features include spacious living and family rooms, hardwood floors in bedrooms, hallway, and family room, and an updated kitchen with solid maple cabinetry and quartz countertops. Both full bathrooms are beautifully renovated, one featuring a whirlpool tub and custom tile. Additional updates include luxury vinyl plank
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
Don’t miss this 4 bed/1 bath home with two bedrooms and full bath on the main level and two additional bedrooms upstairs. New roof in 2020. Rheem 95% Efficient Gas Furnace, full unfinished basement. Sizeable backyard with storage shed. This home is a must- see!
Move-in ready brick ranch on a corner lot with numerous updates throughout. Features include spacious living and family rooms, hardwood floors in bedrooms, hallway, and family room, and an updated kitchen with solid maple cabinetry and quartz countertops. Both full bathrooms are beautifully renovated, one featuring a whirlpool tub and custom tile. Additional updates include luxury vinyl plank
3 bedrooms (all with large closets), 1 bath house with many new updates! Includes an unfinished basement and 1 car garage. First month rent and deposit due upon signing a 1 year lease.No Pets.No Smoking.You pay: Electric, Gas, Water, Trash, Lawn Maintenance, etc.Background/Credit check required.
CHARMING 1 BEDROOM HOUSE Available nowLOCATION LOCATION LOCATIONThis lovely 1 bedroom is located just steps from downtown Effingham.Close to banks, grocery store, post office, library, Joe's Pizza, and all city buildings. The house has 2 units, an upstairs and downstairs; it is the downstairs unit that is available. Both have separate entrances.It has: 1 bedroom/ 1
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