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
Randy Grigg,
an experienced agent in this area.
NORTH SIDE OF EFFINGHAM!!! This beautifully landscaped home is a 3 bedroom and 3 bath home located on the north side of Effingham. This large floor plan features vaulted ceilings, lovely oak cabinets with a cozy fireplace for chilly evenings. There is plenty of room for entertaining in the finished basement family room for game or movie night. The pool was installed by WET of Effingham in 2020
Looking for a private setting with acreage and only minutes from downtown Effingham? Look no further! Come check out this beautiful property that sits on 24.67 acres with a private drive way, 2,250 square foot outbuilding with concrete and dirt floors, fenced in pasture for animals, and a 46 X 19 in ground pool! Inside the home you will find over 4,000 square feet of livable square footage,
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 1,556 sq. ft. ranch offering comfort, functionality, and plenty of space for your family. The main level features a bright and open floor plan with 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths, perfect for modern living. The large living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining space, making it ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy the
Spacious 4 bed and 1 1/2 bath fenced in house. New stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. Additional office area on the main floor. There is an unfinished basement as well for plenty of storage.
Nice 2 bedroom, 1 bath house located on a large corner lot in EffinghamNo pets.No Smoking inside.Tenant handles all utilities and lawn care. Laundry room has W/D hookups but they are not included. $950/mo $950 deposit with 1 year lease ($1,900 due at signing)If interested, please submit an application using the "Apply" button. "Request Tour" will be
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