As the former "Whiskey Capital of the World" before the Prohibition, Peoria was home to whiskey barons and other wealthy residents who settled down in what are now historic mansions in West Bluff. But along with these estates are more modest homes, making West Bluff a neighborhood that can fit the financial needs of just about any homebuyer. "It's a very eclectic group of people," says Rhonda Milburn, Realtor with Keller Williams Premier Realty, who has serviced West Bluff for more than 20 years. "You have artists, professors, physicians and everything in between. It's a very cohesive neighborhood." Bradley University brings a college-town atmosphere to the local businesses on Main Street, while other areas feel more suburban with nearby shopping centers.
From historic mansions to small bungalows
Mansions in the historic district date back to the mid-1800s, featuring eloquent architectural styles, including Second Empires, English Tudors, colonial-inspired designs and many more that beautify the neighborhood. "They don't build houses like this anymore – the detailing and the woodwork," says Milburn. "Some even have ballrooms on the third floor. A client of mine once said you can live like kings and queens here, and I couldn't agree more." Ranging from around $300,000 to $500,000, many of these stunning estates are surrounded by plentiful mature trees and set far back from their long front yards with circular driveways that add a majestic feeling to each property. Residents can also enjoy a simpler lifestyle in one of the neighborhood's many bungalows or Cape Cods. Some charming English-style cottages can be found scattered around the neighborhood as well. With a few feet between neighbors, these single-family homes sell for around $75,000 to $150,000.
The historic homes down high street vary from large lots to smaller homes.
Four square bungalow style home with brick accents in West Bluff.
Tutor style large homes are popular within the historic district of West Bluff.
Colonial brick homes look so cozy within the neighborhood of West Bluff.
West Bluff has a few smaller sized bungalow style homes outside of the grand historic district.
Grad Tutor revival homes are situated on large acreage within West Bluff.
There are many vintage homes within the neighborhood of West Bluff.
More simple colonial farmhouse homes are found within West Bluff.
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Big retailers and walkable Main Street with local shops
In the northern section of the neighborhood, locals can shop and dine around one big shopping center, which has a Walmart, Hobby Lobby and ALDI. While there are several national chain restaurants, residents can choose from many local establishments for various dining experiences. Connected offers an intimate, Italian-American fine-dining atmosphere. Meanwhile, Childers Eatery is a more casual spot for brunch and Big JJ's Fish & Chicken serves up delicious comfort foods in a small shop. On the south side of West Bluff near Bradley University, Main Street is a pedestrian-friendly area lined with more local shops and restaurants. College students and residents frequent One World, a staple corner restaurant famous for its hummus. Shoppers can also head to small retailers like Primitiques to find cute home décor created by local artisans and Lit. on Fire Books, a quaint bookshop with cozy couches and open mic sessions.
Childer's Eatery is a great place to stop for breakfast or lunch in West Bluff.
Childer's offers vegetarian eggs Benedict and freshly pressed juices in West Bluff.
One World in West Bluff creates craft coffee like peppermint mochas and many seasonal drinks.
Hobby Lobby is another great place to buy home decor in West Bluff.
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Diversity at Peoria Public Schools
Elementary students may attend one of several schools, including Whittier Primary, which receives a C-plus grade from Niche. Harold B. Dawson Junior Middle and Sterling Middle, both of which get a C-minus grade, feed into C-graded Peoria High, ranked the third-most diverse high school in the Peoria area. Students seeking post-secondary education can stay home in West Bluff by attending Bradley University, a private institution with more than 100 undergraduate and 30-plus graduate programs.
Whittier Primary School is located within West Bluff in Peoria.
Harold B. Dawson is located within the West Bluff area district.
Peoria High School has an overall C rating from Niche in West Bluff.
The West Bluff branch library is located near downtown and built with all brick and stone.
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A zoo, amphitheater and more at Glen Oak Park
Those looking for fresh air typically head to Glen Oak Park, a large green space with open grassy fields and tree-lined walkways used for relaxing strolls. The former playground has been demolished, but a new, all-accessible playground is under construction so every child can have a place to play. The park is also home to The Peoria PlayHouse, where children can learn and play in the interactive museum. Kids and adults alike have fun watching the animals at Peoria Zoo, another fun feature of Glen Oak Park. Milburn, who's a board member of the Peoria Zoological Society, says, "It's a very community-involved zoo. We have all sorts of events like Howl-Zoo-Ween during fall for kids and Zootini, a martini-tasting event for adults. The community also gets to name the baby animals after they're born." The fun continues at the park's amphitheater, which hosts annual community events, including the highly anticipated fireworks show every third of July.
Large ants are a fun ride on toy for kids outside of the Peoria Zoo in West Bluff.
The Peoria Playhouse Children's Museum is a fun indoor place for kids to enjoy when its colder.
Outside play area for children at the Peoria Zoo in West Bluff.
Swings are near the Zoo in West Bluff at a park with many other outdoor activities.
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West Bluff has easy access to the interstate 74 and other main roads.
CityLink bus routes to downtown Peoria
CityLink offers public transportation with bus stops along all the main roads. Depending on where locals live, the drive to downtown can be less than a mile or up to four miles. Locals also have easy access to Interstate 74, which leads directly to all the excitement of downtown and the riverfront.
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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kenley Kaisershot,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Laura Bradley Park
Bradley Park Dog Park
Roanoke-Randolph Street Historic District
Shea Stadium
Centennial Park
Peoria Park District
Giant Oak Park
Transit
Airport
General Downing - Peoria International
16 min drive
Bus
Sheridan And Nebraska & Plasma Center
Bus
Western And Rohman
Bus
Parkway & Dunham's
Bus
Colombia Terrace And Flora
Bus
Knoxville And Nebraska
Bus
Colombia Terrace And Machin
Bus
Osf Children's Hospital
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
West Bluff
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in West Bluff, Peoria sell after 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in West Bluff, Peoria over the last 12 months is $97,354, up 12% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained and thoughtfully updated home on the iconic Moss Avenue. Blending modern convenience with timeless character, this home features updated amenities such as motion-sensor lighting, electric fireplaces, a security system, and completely remodeled bathrooms. At the same time, it proudly preserves its historic charm with stunning stained glass windows, original
Tired of paying rent or want to add to your investment portfolio? Build equity in this affordable home. Located in Peoria’s East Bluff/Glen Oak neighborhood, this two bedroom home offers hardwood floors in the living and dining rooms. The practical kitchen includes oak cabinetry, a 2 year old stainless steel French door refrigerator and laundry hookups. Upstairs you’ll find both bedrooms
Unique 2 acre property with 2 homes and a new partially complete garage and workshop. Main home is a large 2 story with walkup attic and finished basement with walkout. Second home is a one story with walkout basement. Both homes attached by a large deck. Across the creek is a new construction garage with a workshop. Park like backyard with plenty of room for entertaining, a pool, storage
Attention investors! Here's a unique opportunity to purchase a lot with great potential. This property is being sold as-is, providing a fantastic chance for savvy investors to capitalize on its possibilities. Lot sits next to an empty City of Peoria owned lot. All information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Buyer do your own due diligence.
Rented for $1,000 – 2 Bed, 1 Bath rental opportunity! Schedule your showing today to view this charming two-story, 2-bedroom, 1-bath home featuring a spacious layout and a full, unfinished basement—perfect for extra storage! Part of a package deal of 5 total homes. (Package includes 921 W Brons, 200 E Thrush, 2127 N Delaware, 1107 E Republic, 707 Ravine)
Great 3 bed, 1 bath, bungalow on Columbia Ter by Bradley University. The home offers a large front porch for sitting and relaxing. Step inside to a spacious living room with hardwood flooring through main level. The home has a ton of character with build ins in the spacious formal dining room. The kitchen has a lot of room and could use some TLC. 2 Bedrooms on the main level and the 3rd is
Now available for rent, this inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home blends classic charm with practical updates in a convenient central Peoria location. Recent improvements—like new flooring in the kitchen, both bathrooms, and the main floor bedroom—bring a fresh, comfortable feel to the space. Inside, you'll find a spacious kitchen offering ample cabinet space, a formal dining area, and a cozy
Modern Living in the Heart of Downtown Peoria EMR Apartments offers a premium living experience in the heart of Downtown Peoria. All utilities, parking, and high-speed internet are included in your rent, with fully furnished options available upon request. Enjoy top-tier amenities, including a pet spa, fitness center, resident lounge, bike storage, and more. The building features HD
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kenley Kaisershot,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
28,568
Median Age
32
Population Density
9 ppl/acre
Population under 18
28.5%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
13.4%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$43,717
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$57,826
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
87.7%
College Graduates
27.7%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
11.1%
On par with the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
64.3%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
37''
Average Winter Low Temperature
18°F
Average Summer High Temperature
86°F
Annual Snowfall
35''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
46/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
59/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
35/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
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.