Surrounded by cornfields in every direction, Galesburg, Illinois, is an oasis with large employers, historical ties and affordable homes. The county seat of Knox County highlights its past as a railroad town, college town and stop on the Underground Railroad. Family ties also extend far into the past, and "People have been here for generations," says Noelle Thompson, director of the Galesburg Public Library. "Their roots are here." Though the city is slowly shrinking, with a decrease in population in all but one census since 1970, Galesburg still attracts those looking for a rural, small-town feel and plenty of room to spread out.
The Old City Hall is another historical landmark of Galesburg on Cherry street.
Galesburg's downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Built around a convenient train depot
The city started as a large railroad town, and its train depot acted as a halfway point between Quincy and Chicago. Blick Art Materials and Maytag utilized the convenient location for their plants and headquarters until relocations in the early 2000s. The railroad still plays a large part in the community's industry and culture, and BNSF Railway is the largest employer.
Amtrak has four daily trains from Chicago to Galesburg and three in the opposite direction. Located on the westernmost bend along Interstate 74, Galesburg has direct access to larger cities like Davenport and Peoria. Hospitals and airports with commercial flights are in both. "People who work in the cities often move here to settle their family in a smaller, tight-knit community," Thompson says. "New families are also coming for jobs, and students at Knox College stay after graduating."
BNSF Railway is the largest employer of Galesburg, IL.
Blick Art Materials utilized the previous train depot as it's headquarters in Galesburg.
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Below-average prices for Victorian mansions
Most homes date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, and are in need of regular repairs and renovations. "There's a big push from the city and from a social standpoint to repair and keep up historic buildings, especially homes," Thompson says. Bungalows, workers' cottages and American Foursquare in livable condition sell for as low as $40,000. The city's most expensive homes are well-maintained Colonial Revivals, Victorians and a limited number of new traditional and sprawling-ranch style homes from more recent decades. Prices top out at around $325,000, and at only $78 per square foot on average, homes in Galesburg are relatively affordable.
The median price over the past 12 months is $100,000 – $306,000 less than the national median of $406,000.
Historic homes are a common sight in Galesburg and give the city a charming character.
This blue Victorian home in Galesburg is an eye catcher.
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Lake Storey and Tornado Alley
Small neighborhood parks are within the city's small blocks, but Lake Story Park is a standout for recreation with its public beach, baseball fields, campground and nature center around the lake. The park also has mountain biking trails and a public pool with slides and a splash pad.
Galesburg is in Tornado Alley and has a higher-than-average chance of encountering tornados and windstorms. The last tornado to directly hit parts of the city was in the summer of 1968, but high winds are regular throughout the season. Winters are cold and moderately snowy, and according to the NOAA, summer days are comfortable, with daily mean temperatures in the low- to mid-70s.
Lake Storey Park features a public beach and nature center around the lake.
Central Park is a small, circular park in the middle of Downtown Galesburg.
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The National Railroad Hall of Fame
Construction on the National Railroad Hall of Fame began in 2019, and the museum will be a welcome addition to the area's railroad-centered history and celebrations. In addition to the Galesburg Railroad Museum, the city hosts the Railroad Days Festival on the fourth weekend of June each year. Rides, train tours, musical performances and vendors attract a large attendance. Thompson says, "The event is not just for locals; We absolutely see visitors and train enthusiasts from all over the country."
Galesburg Railroad Museum shares the rich history of the city's roots.
The railroad still plays a large part in the Galesburg's industry and culture.
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The Jewel of Galesburg
Galesburg's downtown, called Seminary Street Historic District by locals, is on the National Register of Historic Places. "The arts scene is growing throughout the community with visual arts, live music and performing arts," Thompson says. In addition to performances at coffee shops and bars, locals can catch a musical act at The Orpheum Theater – nicknamed "The Jewel of Galesburg."
Outside of downtown, the main shopping area is along North Henderson Street, which has department stores, grocery stores, car dealerships and fast-food chains.
Outside of downtown, the main shopping area of Galesburg is along North Henderson Street.
The Oprheum Theater is nicknamed "The Jewel of Galesburg".
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Extending education at Knox College
Galesburg Community Unit School District No. 205 is rated a C-plus on Niche and has high marks for diversity. President Ronald Reagan attended Silas Willard Elementary School for one year when his family lived there.
Knox College is a private liberal arts college that offers more than 60 education disciplines. Founded in 1837, the college has some of Galesburg's oldest buildings.
Galesburg Community Unit School District No. 205 is rated a C-plus on Niche.
President Ronald Reagan attended Silas Willard Elementary School in Galesburg, IL.
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Galesburg Police Department reports a decrease in crime
The most recent Galesburg Police Department annual report shows that violent crime counts decreased by over 50% from 2022 to 2023, and property crime counts decreased by 22%. According to statistics provided by the FBI, both violent and property rates in Galesburg are on trend with national rates.
Written By
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On average, homes in Galesburg, IL sell after 43 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Galesburg, IL over the last 12 months is $110,000, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming Four-Bedroom Home with Timeless Character This inviting four-bedroom, one-bath home showcases exceptional craftsmanship and enduring charm throughout. Beautiful hardwood floors and exquisite woodwork create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, while arched doorways and unique built-ins add both character and function. The main level features spacious living and dining areas separated by tall,
Spacious 4-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offering comfort, updates, and a convenient location. This property features a detached 2-car garage, a large backyard ideal for entertaining or outdoor enjoyment, and a functional layout with a living room, dining room, and den providing plenty of flexible living space. Major updates include a new furnace, new water heater, new water lines, and a new electrical
Filled with Warmth and Charm is your 3 bedroom ranch style home featuring living room offering bay window to enjoy natural light, and neighborhood views, highlighted with beam and plank ceilings which are featured throughout the home. Large dine-in kitchen offers nice hardwood cabinetry, pantry, appliances, ample counter space whether for meal prep or baking cookies, convenient laundry, and
Charming 3-Bedroom Home on a Spacious Corner Lot Welcome to this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2 1/2 bathroom home set on a large corner lot with plenty of room to stretch out. Inside, you’ll find updated flooring throughout and modern electrical upgrades that add peace of mind and value. The open layout makes everyday living easy, with natural light filling each room. A oversized garage offers
Solid brick Cape Cod offering exceptional value and opportunity! This 3-bedroom, 1.5-story home features hardwood floors, a heated enclosed front porch, a full basement with an egress window, and a detached garage. Major mechanical updates include a newer roof, high-efficiency furnace, and central air (approx. 2020), providing a strong foundation for future improvements. The home is currently
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Comfortable and Enjoyable Condominium Living offered with your wonderful three bedroom, 3 bath home featuring open and bright living/dining room combination with glass sliders granting access to balcony. Kitchen offers appliances, ample counter and cabinet space, plus informal dining area. Two main floor bedrooms, and main floor bathroom. Bedroom suite is complete with your own private bathroom.
A Room for Everyone! 4 Bedroom 1.5 bath home features living room, eat-in kitchen, and main level laundry. Spacious family room offers wood burning fireplace, glass sliders allowing for easy access to fenced backyard ideal for outdoor recreation and pets. Upper level includes two bedrooms and full bathroom. Lower level provides space for two additional bedrooms and half bathroom. 2-Car garage,
Welcome to this recently remodeled, move-in ready 3 bed, 1.5 bath home built in 2005 perfect for first-time home buyers, those looking to downsize, or anyone ready to simply unpack their boxes and settle in. Perched on a corner lot, this home offers an inviting covered front porch and a convenient ramped side entry. Inside, you’ll find an open-concept living & kitchen area designed for everyday
Welcome to this inviting 4 bed, 2.5 bath bi-level home nestled on a generous corner lot in the highly sought after Westport subdivision! Upon entering, venture upstairs to the open concept living room highlighted by a large picture window and easily flowing into the informal dining area ideal for entertaining. The kitchen offers generous cabinetry and enough space for casual meals. Down the hall,
!HUGE PRICE REDUCTION-MOTIVATED SELLER! Conveniently located just minutes away from either Monmouth or Galesburg, this remarkable country home and acreage offer the perfect space to raise your family or have extra room for guests! Tucked away off the road for added privacy, this expansive tri-level home blends durable concrete block and classic wood frame construction. Entering the main (middle)
Bring your vision and toolbelt- this property is a blank slate for your next rebuild project! Previously having 3 apartment units, it offers a rare chance to restore the home to its former glory or explore new possibilities! The property features a 2 bedroom main floor, with a full bathroom. The upstairs has the potential to be two separate 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartments. Offering a unique
River Oaks Trails offers a charming and affordable living experience nestled beside the expansive 50-acre Kiwanis Park. The proximity to the park, complete with golf facilities and a refreshing spray water park, provides residents with an abundance of recreational opportunities right at their doorstep. There is also a grocery store nearby, standing as a convenient haven for residents, offering a
PLEASE CALL PROPERTY IF INTERESTED !!!! Calls will be answered more promptly versus messages / emails. Great north location - close to shopping and activities. Spacious 2 bedroom, 1 bath apt with extra closets , storage and laundry in the basement. Each unit is equipped with a gas furnace, central air, and a hot water heater. Tenant pays all utilities. 1 year renewable lease. No
Galesburg Towers Apartments is both a home and a community. It offers gracious, one-bedroom apartment homes for senior adults, age 62 and older, and/or handicapped persons. Units have all electric utilities and the resident pays for the electric service. Water trash & sewage are included in the rent. You will appreciate all the best aspects of apartment living with a vibrant community of people.
When you call Parkway Estates home, youll find yourself surrounded in a beautiful, lush, park-like environment. Our spacious, luxury, one, two, and three bedroom apartments include private entrances, and is on a public transportation route along with a variety of great amenities. The professional, on-site management staff will assist you in meeting all of your needs. If you would like to
Property Id: 2233048This 3 bed 2 bath home offers nicely sized bedrooms plus a room ideal for a home office, den, or playroom. The basement provides abundant storage, a laundry area, and extra flexible space for a workout room, hobby area, additional family room, or a non conforming bedroom Outside, enjoy a paved driveway leading to a two-car garage, a patio, and a lovely backyard ready
Nice ground floor 2 bed, 1 bath apartment for rent. Quiet complex on dead end street. The tenant only pays electricity on top of rent. Coin laundry facility on site.
Wonderful modern one-bedroom loft apartment with high ceilings, lots of great natural light, and open floor plan. Located in the heart of downtown, the apartment is a short walk to the Cornucopia Natural Market & Deli, restaurants, and shopping, as well as, the Discovery Depot Children's Museum and the train station.
COMING SOON: Charming 2-Bedroom Home with Garage and Covered Porch!1-Bathroom1-Car Detached GarageSpacious KitchenCovered Front PorchLiving room filled with lots of natural lightThe primary bedroom offers double closetsHas a mudroom that leads to a basementPet-friendly: Pets are welcome! ($45/month per pet, restrictions apply)If you are interested
Check this Charming Single-Family Home in Galesburg! Key Features: 2-Bedroom, 1-Bathroom, 1 & 1/2 Detached Garage, Unfinished Basement and Has Deck, Patio & Backyard. This home is Pet-friendly! ($45/month per pet, restrictions apply). If you are interested, please do not hesitate to contact us!
Cozy 2-Bedroom Home In a Peaceful Neighborhood! Key Features: 2-Bedroom, 1-Bedroom, Large yard, 1-Car Attached Garage and has a partial basement. Walking distance to schools, parks, churches, and restaurants. This home is pet-friendly! ($45/month per pet, restrictions apply). We offer self-guided showings. If you're interested, please do not hesitate to contact us!
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