$84,340Average Value$204Average Price per Sq Ft0Homes For Sale
Tight-knit community outside of downtown
Hugging the eastern side of Springfield’s downtown, Pioneer Park has a sense of community that dates back to the turn of the 20th century. The northern blocks of the neighborhood overlap into what was once referred to as the Badlands: a historically black section of town that saw intense violence against African Americans during the 1908 Race Riots of Springfield. These events were the final tipping point that led to the founding of the NAACP some six months later. Though the atmosphere has softened since these moments in history, the local community still prides itself on a foundation of hospitality and support. “I’ve got a neighbor who can’t mow his lawn anymore, so two locals come and out and do it for him,” says Vanessa Knox, President of the Pioneer Park Neighborhood Association and lifelong Springfield resident. “We look out for each other here.” The neighborhood has attracted families and retirees alike, all eager to take advantage of the kinship between residents, lower-than-average real estate prices and proximity to downtown.
Pioneer Park has well maintained streets and sidewalks perfect for pedestrians and drivers alike
Bungalows and ranch style homes share blocks in Pioneer Park.
1/2
Pride in well manicured lawns
With the familiar sight of sidewalks, backyards, driveways and double-car garages, lots are generally fuller and more spread out than similarly historic neighborhoods. Lawns tend to be well-manicured, a fact locals take pride in. “Pioneer Park does a really good job of keeping it clean,” says Knox. “It helps that we’ve got a good relationship with the city’s Public Works department.“ Closest to downtown, the northernmost sections of the area tend to be louder than its southern counterpart, which reports fewer incidents of noise from traffic. Split-level and ranch-style homes share blocks with more classic American Foursquare and Craftsman construction. With an average value in the mid-$60,000s, real estate prices stand at a quarter of the Illinois state average. Though some will require renovation, the majority are well-maintained and move-in ready.
This charming ranch style home is a common sight in Pioneer Park.
With an average value in the mid-$60,000s, real estate prices stand at an affordable price.
1/2
Community programming at the Boys and Girls Club
Comer Cox Park is a six-acre green space that acts as a hub for locals and neighborhood events. “There are always kids and their parents spending time at the park,” says Shawn Gregory, Alderman for Springfield’s second ward since 2019. “It just shows you how family-oriented the neighborhood is.” The park has playground equipment, a splash pad and wide open, grassy areas ringed by the shade of mature trees. The Boys and Girls Club of Central Illinois is very active in the area, providing opportunities for young people to play and learn. In addition to co-sponsoring local events, the BGCCI offers a plethora of programming, including tutoring, art classes, sports leagues and more. The neighborhood hosts several historic sites, including Springfield’s first Black firehouse on East Adams Street, erected in 1902.
Artist in the Park features local artists and musicians weekly during the summers.
Enjoy a meal with friends and family at Union Square Park, just a short drive from Pioneer Park.
1/2
Catfish and hush puppies at Carter's
One mile south, Carter’s Fish Market has been a local go-to for almost 40 years. A classic fish fry spot, they serve up everything from catfish to walleye with a side of hush puppies and casual outdoor seating. PT’s Barbecue offers slabs of ribs, chicken, and sandwiches in a laid-back atmosphere. Call ahead with your order to beat the line. Familiar shopping options like Save A Lot and CVS Pharmacy can be found a mile east, while JCPenny can be found just outside of neighboring Eastview.
Pioneer Park has attracted families and retirees alike and many come to Boyd's New Generation.
Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery has an idyllic outdoor dining area for diners.
1/2
National Night Out with the Pioneer Park Neighborhood Association
“The local neighborhood association is very active,” says Gregory. “They’ve got new events and programs happening all the time.” These events range from annual holiday events to National Night Out to bike safety classes for kids.
New facilities at Lanphier High
Students can begin their education at Fairview Elementary School before heading to Washington Middle School, both of which have a C with Niche. From there, older students can enroll at Lanphier High School, which has a C-plus and recently received a $100 million renovation that includes new educational, athletic and career-oriented facilities.
Fairview Elementary School is a wonderful public school in Springfield, IL.
Lanphier High has 1,058 students in atttendance.
1/2
A straight shot to St. John's Hospital
Its location just south of Illinois Route 97 provides straightforward access to downtown Springfield and St. John’s Hospital, both located 1 mile west. The Sangamon Mass Transit District offers bus service throughout Springfield and Sangamon County for a $1.25 fare.
Pioneer Park hugs the eastern side of Springfield's downtown.
The Sangamon Transit has buses running throughout the city for easy public transportation.
1/2
Union Baptist Church is one of many houses of worship in Pioneer Park.
A history of local churches
Many local churches have a history of activism and civic service that continues to this day. Union Baptist Church stands out as one of Springfield's first African American churches. Alongside the congregations of Monroe Street Christian Church and St. John African Methodist Episcopal, it has stayed actively involved in community events and outreach.
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 neighborhood?
Reach out to
Diane Tinsley,
an experienced agent in this area.
Parks in this Area
Union Square Park
Comer Cox Park
Transit
Airport
Abraham Lincoln Capital
11 min drive
Bus
16th & Adams
Bus
Washington & 14th
Bus
Washington & 16th
Bus
Capitol & 14th
Bus
Mlk & Capitol
Bus
Mlk & Adams
Bus
Washington & 12th & 13th
Pioneer Park Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Pioneer Park, Springfield sell after 25 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Pioneer Park, Springfield over the last 12 months is $315,000.
Unlock the potential of this bi-level 4-bedroom, 1-bath home located just minutes from downtown Springfield. With a functional layout and spacious rooms, this property is ideal for investors or buyers looking to renovate and add value. The bi-level design offers separation of living spaces, perfect for families or tenants. Situated in a revitalizing neighborhood, this home is full of
Interested in learning more about homes in this neighborhood?
Reach out to
Diane Tinsley,
an experienced agent in this area.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
650
Median Age
50
Population Density
6 ppl/acre
Population under 18
21.4%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
30.5%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$15,743
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$24,992
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
69.5%
College Graduates
12%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
2.3%
% Population in Labor Force
42.1%
Below the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
38''
Average Winter Low Temperature
20°F
Average Summer High Temperature
86°F
Annual Snowfall
7''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
58/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
45/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
49/ 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.
