$195,347Average Value$139Average Price per Sq Ft6Homes For Sale
Momence is a preserved midwestern town with deep community ties
Momence is a quiet and rural community that looks like it was plucked from a 1950s movie. In fact, locations throughout the city of about 3,000 may look familiar to television and film aficionados. "Our downtown area and community are so historic and preserved that we've had movies and shows filmed here, using our buildings and homes for their sets," says Charles Steel, mayor and a lifelong resident of Momence. Hulu and Netflix television shows, including the fourth season of "Fargo," used the old midwestern downtown to depict a slow-paced life, where residents know one another and connections run decades deep. But the portrayed atmosphere isn't just a façade; it reflects Momence's authentic vibe. "Everyone is here for one another, and when someone is going through a hard time, our residents show up for them," Steel says. "People move here specifically for the community."
The quiet and rural community of Momence is home to 3,000 residents.
The rural atmosphere of Momence makes it a popular filming location for various production companies.
1/2
Victorian-era and midcentury homes are along quiet streets
Cape Cods, bungalows and workers' cottages line the gridded streets, with sidewalks set far back from the road. Homes range between $80,000 and $170,000 and usually have detached garages accessible by alleyway. Victorian houses on the same streets are more spacious and sell for $160,000 to $250,000. As the area developed in the 1950s and later, ranch-style homes, bi-levels and New Traditional homes filled pocket neighborhoods on the outskirts. The slightly larger homes sell for $180,000 to $390,000. "They're attractive to people wanting more space while staying close to Kankakee," Steel says. The population isn't growing, but Steel explains that new residents are moving in, taking the place of those moving out. "It used to be the type of place where the only people living here were natives," he says. "But now, enough new people are moving here that I'm having difficulty keeping track."
Homes with Victorian-era architecture are a great option for growing families in Momence.
New Traditional homes with large driveways and attached garages are prevalent in Momence.
Main Street Momence is a non-profit preservation organization that aims to restore and highlight the downtown area's historic charm and architecture. The central business district, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, features Italianate and Pioneer-era buildings with shops, salons, offices and restaurants on the ground floor. Yanni's Restaurant on Washington is an American diner that serves brunch staples, burgers, wraps and fries. According to Mayor Steet, the city supports local establishments by closing the stretch of Washington Street for block parties and local band performances outside the participating businesses. Berkot's Super Foods is in the area, and more grocers, national retailers and department stores are west in Kankakee.
Main Street is home to several local businesses with a variety of options in Momence.
Berkot's Super Foods is a popular grocer in Momence where residents can grab their daily essentials.
Parish Bank is notable for being placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
1/3
The local district offers small class sizes and vocational training
Momence Community Unit School District teaches the area's children, with about 1,000 students across all levels. "The class sizes aren't too huge," Steel says. "So, no one is missing the attention they need to succeed." Children can begin learning at Je-Neir Elementary School, rated C-plus by Niche. Momence Junior High School receives the same grade, and Momence High School next door earns a B-minus. The junior and senior high school buildings share a campus and athletic fields, including a football field that underwent a major renovation and received a new turf surface and rubber track in 2024. The high school also works with the Kankakee Area Career Center, providing vocational education options. "The district buses students there for a few hours during the school day to learn specific trades and career paths," Steel says.
Je-Neir Elementary School boast a student teacher ratio of 14-1
Momence Junior High School scores a C-plus on Niche.com.
Momence High School excels in its athletic programs and after school clubs.
1/3
A footbridge leads to the area's central park and river views
The Kankakee River flows through the area, with an island near the city's center. On that island is Momence's flagship and largest park, the fittingly named Island Park. Accessible by a wooden footbridge, the park has a playground, picnic tables and a paved path, among other amenities. Locals launch a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the Kankakee River Boat Ramp.
Momence anglers enjoy access to the Kankakee River, offering excellent fishing conditions.
The footbridge at Island Park connects Momence residents on both sides of the Kankakee River.
1/2
Annual and weekly events tied to Momence’s history
Since 1938, Momence has celebrated its agricultural heritage, especially its growing of the gladiolus flower, with the Momence Gladiolus Festival. Often called just Glad Fest, the festival takes place over four days in August, with parades, a carnival, a beer garden and a flea market, among other events and attractions. The city also hosts a weekly seasonal farmers market on Sundays, town-wide garage sales and car shows.
Commuters have a straightforward commute by car or bus
Many residents of Momence commute to one of the nearby communities for work. "Kankakee, Bradley, Bourbonnais and Manteno are all within a stone's throw," Steel says. Some residents even make the trip to Chicago, about 60 miles north via Interstate 57 or Illinois State Highway 394. SHOW Bus Public Transportation connects Momence and Kankakee, running Monday through Friday. Chicago Midway International Airport is 50 miles north, and St. Mary's Hospital is in Kankakee, about 13 miles southwest.
River proximity increases flood risk for some areas
According to First Street, Momence has a major risk from flooding, with residences, commercial spaces, roads and social spaces near the Kankakee River at most risk. In addition to homeowners' insurance, additional flood insurance may be necessary.
Proximity to the Kankakee River makes Momence residences prone to flooding.
Homes on the outskirts of Momence sit along the Kankakee River.
1/2
Written By
Heather Haggerty
Photography Contributed By
Kyle Keyes
Video By
EB Fox
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Lisa Heenan,
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Momence, IL sell after 28 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Momence, IL over the last 12 months is $195,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This is too good to miss!!!! Charming Updated Home on a Beautiful Lot just shy of an ACRE! This MOVE-IN READY gem offers comfort, style, and modern updates. An inviting 2-bedroom, 2-bath home features a COMPLETELY RENOVATED bathroom... luxurious SOAKING TUB, brand-new tile, GLASS ENCLOSED shower, MODERN vanity, and STYLISH light fixtures-perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. The kitchen
Calling all investors! This 4-bedroom, 1-bath home in the Shadow Lawn community is full of potential and ready for your vision. The large detached garage offers endless possibilities-use it as extra living space, a workshop, office, or even the ultimate party house. Flip it and sell it, make it your vacation getaway, or enjoy everyday life that feels like a retreat. Just a short walk to the
IF YOUR LOOKING FOR YOUR NEXT HOME THEN COME CHECK OUT THIS SPACIOUS 4BD~2BATH RANCH STYLE HOME THAT'S BEEN NICELY RENOVATED LOCATED JUST OUTSIDE OF TOWN IN A NICE COUNTRY SUBD ON JUST UNDER A 1/2 ACRE LOT!YOU'LL BE ABLE TO SPREAD OUT IN THIS ONE. FEATURES YOU'LL FIND IN THIS HOME INCLUDE~SPLIT FLR PLAN~LIVING ROOM/DINING ROOM~EAT IN KITCHEN W/QUARTZ COUNTER TOPS~PENINSULA~CUSTOM CABINETRY THAT
Welcome to to this rare and breathtaking historical Victorian estate that flawlessly showcases architectural charm with modern updates. Nestled on 6.65 sprawling acres, this 4 bed, 3.5 bath masterpiece is the ultimate country dream realized. Every window gives you stunning, light-filled views of the vibrant perennial landscaping and rolling countryside. Inside, you are greeted by original
Beautiful updated house with a large, new, family room/dinning room addition. Backyard provides direct access to the Kankakee river for fishing and general entertainment. New foam insulation throughout including in the garage. Nice kitchen with plenty of cabinets and large bathroom. New air conditioning and water filtration system.
Spacious two-story home located in the heart of Momence! This charming property offers generous living space and timeless character throughout. The main level features a large eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, expansive living room with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and a dedicated library perfect for relaxing or working from home. Upstairs you'll find four comfortable bedrooms, a private
Linda KrauseBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Speckman Realty
Rare opportunity to own a beautiful piece of countryside in Momence, Illinois. This "as-is" property is all about the land-offering expansive open space, scenic rural views, and endless potential for a variety of uses. Whether you're looking to build your dream home, invest in acreage, or simply enjoy a private getaway, this property provides a versatile canvas. The existing home and structures
Gracefully set on 2.5 private acres, this exceptional 4,300 sq ft ranch residence offers timeless elegance and expansive living spaces. A large covered front porch and grand foyer create a warm and impressive introduction to the home. The thoughtfully designed layout features 5 bedrooms, including two primary suites, and five and a half baths. Ideal for multigenerational living or hosting guests
Completely reimagined in 2019, this stunning riverfront retreat blends modern updates with small-town charm just minutes from downtown Momence. Set on a spacious lot along the water, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath two-story home offers the kind of peaceful lifestyle buyers dream about: morning coffee overlooking the river, evenings around the firepit, and weekends spent enjoying nature right from your
2-bedroom, 1-bath home located in a peaceful country setting. This property features a spacious eat in kitchen with abundant cabinet space, pantry with pull out drawers. modern amenities, and a convenient island snack bar that opens to the living room-perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The large dining room offers flexibility and could easily serve as a home office, playroom, or
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
