$288,666Average Value$121Average Price per Sq Ft30Homes 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
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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 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Effingham, IL over the last 12 months is $205,000, down 5% 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
Welcome home to 301 W. Hawthorne Drive in Effingham! This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath brick home sits on a desirable corner lot with an oversized yard shaded by beautiful mature trees, offering plenty of space to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. Cool off during the summer in the above-ground pool or take advantage of the expansive yard for gardening, play, or gatherings. Inside, you'll
A refined Lake Sara waterfront offering with the acreage, privacy, and lifestyle features buyers rarely find in one property. Set on approximately 1.57 acres in a private cove, this move-in ready Effingham lake home offers just over 3,700 finished sq. ft. across four finished levels, creating flexible space for guests, entertaining, remote work, hobbies, or multi-generational living. The
This is a rare opportunity to bring your vision to life with your very own blank slate lake lot on beautiful Lake Sara. This property is approximately .88 Acre wooded lot right between two other huge properties that provide privacy that very few lake lots can offer. Come and check it out and start enjoying what we like to call "Lake Saradise". EWA Lease #239
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. One car detached garage with a dirt floor. Main road access from the front and an alley access from the back. The house has a newer
This home is even better than new and was first lived in during April 2025. The owners have already added features you don’t get with new construction, like custom landscaping, a sodded fenced backyard, window coverings, and more. Located in Prairie Ace Estates, this ranch home still has four years left of being taxed only on the lot, not the home itself. The neighborhood is a friendly golfing
Waterfront lot at LAKE SARA! Approximately 110' of shoreline. Ready for your boathouse and private swimming area. The lot has large trees and is approximately 110' wide x 194' deep. Ready for YOUR NEW LAKE HOME in Effingham School District. About 10 min to one of 3 different 3 golf courses... and about 12 min to town! Water is about 8' deep. And beautiful new homes in the neighborhood!
.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 Home to Bloomfield Hills! Check out this 4 bed 2.5 bath two story home located close to Lake Sara! This home has been nicely updated and is ready for a new owner! Enter to find all newer LVT flooring throughout the main floor, a large living room with a custom ceiling and a gas fireplace, and a patio door to the 14x16 wood deck, to the open nook to the kitchen complete with stainless
Welcome to this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the highly desirable Richmond Heights Subdivision. Offering two generous living areas and a versatile bonus room, this property is perfectly designed for comfortable family living. The home sits on a sprawling .31-acre corner lot and boasts an oversized 624 sq ft two-car garage — providing abundant space for vehicles, storage, or a
This 1950 gem offers an impressive blend of space, comfort, and modern updates. With three spacious bedrooms and three full bathrooms, the home spans 2,944 square feet, perfect for families or entertaining guests. **Key Features:** - Prime Location Nestled in a desirable area, it's conveniently close to schools, parks, and shopping, making daily life easy and enjoyable.- Generous Lot Situated
Enjoy the best of both worlds hidden Lake sara property on one side approx 400 ft of shore line and with golf course on the other side,hidden wooded lot with almost 1 acre with ranch style home built in the 80's Remodel or remove and build new. Has endless possibilities would also make a great VRBO, Check out this hidden Lake Sara Treasure.
Please click on "APPLY NOW" and submit your application if you are interested.For Rent: Newly Renovated 3 Bedroom / 1 Bath home located in central Effingham. Completely remodeled with new central heat and air, flooring, roof, windows, etc. in 2021. All 3 bedrooms feature large closets. Large backyard with patio and storage shed. Washer/Dryer hookup available.$1,200 month + $1,200
Needing a place to Rent???? Welcome to your new home! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers a perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Step inside to discover a spacious living area filled with natural light, ideal for family gatherings or quiet evenings. The modern kitchen features ample counter space and is equipped with all necessary appliances, making meal preparation a breeze.
Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom upstairs unit located right in the heart of Effingham! This home features a brand new flooring in bedrooms, two parking spots, and a private deck. The property is ideally situated next to the St. Anthony Memorial hospital, a huge perk for healthcare workers or anyone seeking close proximity to medical facilities. This place has everything you need
Fully Renovated 2 Bedroom Apartment | Modern Finishes Throughout | Available August 21Welcome home to this beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offering 930 square feet of stylish, move-in-ready living in one of Effingham's most convenient renovated in 2025 (with the exception of the kitchen cabinetry and countertops), this apartment features modern finishes throughout while
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