Oglesby offers rural recreation and proximity to the interstate
Oglesby’s location along the Interstate 39 corridor in north-central Illinois belies its appeal as a haven for outdoors enthusiasts. The Illinois River flows just outside this community of about 3,600, which is bordered by the Vermillion River. State parks highlight the natural landscape’s recreational destinations. The economy benefits from recreational tourism, as well as easy access to major highways. With I-39 running through the community and I-80 nearby, the region has become a hub for logistics and distribution. “In my opinion, and I’ve been in this business for 30 years, people like Oglesby for the friendliness of the people, the size of the lots, proximity to Starved Rock State Park, the Peru Mall and the interstates,” says Dee Barrera of United Country Starved Rock Realty, who has sold several homes in the community.
Homes prices compare favorably to other nearby towns
Offerings featuring historic architectural styles such as Tudor, Colonial and bungalow highlight the collection of homes that anchor the community’s diverse residential options. The typical price range starts around $70,000 and can approach $300,000. “Oglesby is a little lower priced compared to some of the other towns in the area,” Barerra says. For comparison, the median sales price of just under $150,000 is about $20,000 less than that of neighboring Utica. The two towns are separated by the Illinois River. “Oglesby is a great place,” Barrera adds. “Oglesby and Utica are both great places to live.” In Oglesby, many streets have sidewalks that provide appealing walkability, and several feature mature trees. Ranch-style homes on spacious lots are prominent in subdivision settings. New construction lots in these settings are available. Manufactured homes and townhouses can also be found. Residents can expect summers that are hot and humid and winters that are cold and snowy. Homeowners should be aware that their location comes with the risk of flooding. The region is also susceptible to the occasional tornado.
The popular Starved Rock State Park is just minutes away
Residents enjoy enviable access to rural recreation. They can take advantage of opportunities to hike through miles of picturesque landscape, kayak and fish. The area is known for its walleye. The Illinois River, in particular, is home to several overlooks that cater to nature photographers. Matthiessen State Park is an attractive destination along the Vermillion River, which boaters can access in the community. But Starved Rock State Park along the Illinois, is the featured attraction. It ranks as the most-visited state park in Illinois and among the most popular in the country. “It’s 5 minutes outside of Oglesby. It's beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. All the parks are great. There’s canyons, waterfalls and rivers.” Barrera adds that most of the people who come to Starved Rock are from the Chicago area. Within the community, there are several parks that offer an array of amenities, from playgrounds to athletic spaces. The community has its own pool, which is a popular seasonal destination. Deer Park Golf Club offers a public, 18-hole layout. The area is also known for its community events. Utica is a very active community that hosts the annual Burgoo Festival, which began in 1969. The celebration attracts thousands, who can enjoy vendors, activities and a hearty bowl of Burgoo stew.
Two community schools serve students through eighth grade
Oglesby Public Schools District #125 consists of the Lincoln School, which serves students from preschool through fifth grade, and the Washington School, which serves students in sixth through eighth grades. Both schools are rated C-minus by Niche. Older students can attend La Salle-Peru Township High School, rated B-plus. The high school offers Career & Technical Education courses. Students can apply for out-of-district transfers, but parents are liable for the full cost of such a move, including tuition in the receiving district. This makes such transfers extremely rare. Holy Family School is a private, PK-8 Catholic alternative in the community.
Local business district, nearby Peru offer shopping and dining options
Walnut Street is the community’s primary commercial corridor. Drinking and dining establishments mingle with local businesses along a thoroughfare that includes banks, a post office, the police department and one of the three churches the community highlights on its website. More commercial options can be found along Columbia Avenue, also known as Hiawatha Pioneer Trail. Nearby Peru offers additional dining destinations. The Peru Mall is a popular gathering place at the heart of the city’s varied shopping options.
Easy access to travel via I-39, I-80
I-39 intersects with I-80 north of the community, and the two provide convenient travel to regional destinations. Residents can hop on I-39 to start their journey to Peoria, about 65 miles away. Peoria is home to General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport. I-80 offers access to Chicago, about 100 miles away. North Central Area Transit offers on-demand public transportation within LaSalle County. OSF Saint Elizabeth Medical Center in Peru is about 5 miles away.
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Written By
Matt Pallister
