$155,035Average Value$112Average Price per Sq Ft13Homes For Sale
Mixed-use development and dining options have reshaped Wood River
A few years ago when you passed under the black and gold sign that announces you’re entering downtown Wood River, you’d be met with many empty shopfronts. The downtown area that boomed in the mid-20th century floundered at keeping businesses in the 21st century – but Dream Home Realty Centre Broker Associate Denise Bextermueller says that’s changing. As evidence she points to three businesses that have debuted in downtown Wood River since 2022: 1929 Pizza & Wine, Burger Bar and C&B Boiled Bagels. The city in 2023 adopted a new Comprehensive Plan that, among other initiatives, promotes mixed-use development and pedestrian-friendly streets in downtown. These improvements, paired with the commercial rents that generally are lower than in other nearby towns, are among the factors that draw businesses to once-depleted streets. These additions to downtown are examples of the growing pool of amenities that the city of Wood River’s 10,000 residents can enjoy.
New construction is rare and priced higher on the outskirts
Most of the city’s houses are early and mid-20th century construction, such as Arts and Crafts homes and minimal traditional designs, laid out in rectangular blocks north and southeast of downtown. Though these homes have stood for decades – the median year of construction is 1944 - Bextermueller says it’s clear from the sidewalk that residents take pride in their homes; layers of blue and white paint appear fresh, and yards are neatly clipped. It’s no surprise Bextermueller says property values in Wood River have been steadily on the rise. One-bedroom houses built in the ’40s start in the $50,000s, while century-old brick three-bedroom houses are on the market in the low $100,000s. Occasional examples of new construction that arise on Wood River’s outskirts are priced in the low $400,000s for a three-bedroom home.
Modest, well-maintained homes are common in and around Wood River.
The median year of construction for homes in Wood River is 1944.
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Students stay local from kindergarten through high school
Students don’t need to leave Wood River for school, as the town hosts the full pipeline of campuses for kindergarten through 12th grade. Rated a C-plus by Niche, Lewis & Clark Elementary School offers children more interaction with their teachers, as Niche reports the school has a 10-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio, lower than the national average of 17-to-1. After fifth grade students stay in the same building to take classes at Lewis & Clark Junior High School, where the quality of the teachers earns a B-plus from Niche, and the athletics program includes a coed flag football league. Next students attend East Alton-Wood River High School; the educational aspects of the high school are more than serviceable, as evidenced by the B-minus grad Niche assigns to the school’s teachers. However East Alton-Wood River High also advocates for students to be good stewards in Wood River by connecting interested students with community service opportunities like volunteering at a Wood River Police Department-sponsored 5K.
Lewis & Clark Elementary School in Wood River shares a campus with Lewis & Clark Junior High.
Lewis & Clark Junior High School in Wood River gets a rating of 2/10 from GreatSchools.com.
The teachers at East Alton-Wood River High School get a grade of B from Niche.com.
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Wood River adds inclusive playground and large rec facility
Near the middle of town, the aptly named Central Park is home to one of Wood River’s latest inclusions: a playground with a built-in clock that lets kids time themselves as they race through a course of nets, platforms and monkey bars. Plus the playground’s rubber surface makes it wheelchair-friendly. Wood River’s recreation scene is set to get another addition by the end of 2023. The city is building a 35,000-square-foot recreation center where residents can work out in the gym or smash pickleballs on one of six courts. The complex also will house basketball and volleyball courts as well as an indoor track.
Wood River’s Central Park has a great playground that the kids will love.
Wood River's golf fans can play a round at Belk Park Golf Course.
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Revitalized storefronts mix with thrift shops and pizza spots
For example one brick building in the heart of downtown, damaged by fire, previously was a vacant husk of a storefront. Today that structure is 1929 Pizza & Wine, where residents enjoy wood-fired pies and Tuscan wine. This new dining spot sits on the same block as Riverbend Resale, a thrift shop in the city center since ‘94 and an example of a business that weathered downtown’s downturn. “They’re doing a lot of revitalization in the downtown Wood River area,” Bextermueller says. “There are some new restaurants and shops in downtown, and a lot of the businesses in downtown Wood River have been there for a long time.” Of course residents will need to take care of other shopping outside of the downtown district, such as grocery trips to Farm Fresh on the south end of town.
Wood River’s 1929 serves up fresh wood-fired pizza and more.
Stop by The Sweet Tooth in downtown Wood River and play some classic arcade games.
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Written By
Hannah Rainey
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Nelson
Video By
Jessica Johnson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Matthew Cisler,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Wood River, IL sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Wood River, IL over the last 12 months is $145,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath Sears home that perfectly blends timeless character with modern updates. Step inside to find a spacious living room, formal dining room, and updated LVP flooring throughout the living room, dining room, and foyer (2023). The kitchen features new quartz countertops, and the renovated full bath boasts a custom Onyx surround and matching
Need to work, but never want to leave home? This unique property offers a rare opportunity for investors, entrepreneurs, or anyone looking to create a live-work setup. The main level is ideal for a commercial storefront, office, studio, or small business, while the upstairs apartment and additional rear apartment open the door to rental income or multi-generational living.The building needs
So many possibilities in this 8000 sq ft of office space! Just under 5800 sq ft on the main level including 9-10 patient rooms/offices, three concrete enclosed rooms with vault door, a large waiting room/reception area, restroom, and separate private work area at rear of building. Approximately 1700 sq ft is currently leased which includes additional three offices with cubicle area and restroom.
Located in Wood River, this 2-bedroom fixer upper is full of opportunity and ready for your vision. Situated on a .17-acre lot, the property offers plenty of space for improvements, outdoor living, or future expansion. With solid potential for investors, flippers, or buyers looking to build sweat equity, this home could be transformed into something special. Conveniently located near local
Move-in ready with room to grow! This charming home is currently configured as a spacious one-bedroom but could easily be converted back to a two-bedroom layout if desired. Situated on a large lot set back from the road, the property offers a long driveway for ample parking and added privacy. Enjoy the fenced front yard area, perfect for pets, play, or relaxing outdoors. Inside, you’ll find a
Welcome home to this charming 5-bedroom traditional home offering space, character, and endless possibilities! Start your mornings or unwind in the evenings on the cute enclosed front porch, the perfect place to relax and watch the world go by. Inside, you'll find an open living and dining room, five nicely sized bedrooms, a charming kitchen featuring original details, and plenty of room for
This historic 4 bedroom/3 bath home in Wood River is quite nostalgic and timeless with the craftmanship of a gone by era displayed throughout plus all the modern conveniences you want today. Beautiful entry/foyer with marble flooring has an inviting feel that welcomes family and friends. You will immediately see the original woodwork, special order window coverings and drapes with sheer elegance.
Great potential building site. Good Traffic count. Located across from major developments including Dairy Queen, Jimmy Johns. Sale includes 19-2-08-26-05-102-001 Location: Corner Location, High Traffic
Opportunity awaits in this 2 bed, 1.5 bath Wood River home! Featuring a versatile bonus room and plenty of space, this property is full of potential for customization and added value. Attached Carport and a great neighborhood make this home a must see!
Corner lot remodeled bungalow with 21'x6' covered front and 7'x7' back porch. Fully fenced front and back yard. New architectural roof and siding and soffit and fascia and thermal windows and electrical in '18. Updates in '26 new bath vanity and toilet and LVP flooring. Freshly painted interior and basement. New kitchen island cabinets and countertops and sink and faucets. Large walk-in pantry.
Excellent investment property located near the major highways and in close proximity to St. Louis. This beautiful 47 acres has rolling terrain and a small pond/lake that could be improved to be a major water feature on the property. The property is currently zoned B-3 Commercial. B-3 would allow for a fantastic event center, restaurants, taverns, healthcare facilities, meeting facilities,
Great Value-Add Opportunity in Wood River! This 4-bedroom, 1-bath, 2-story frame home having 1,590 sq. ft. of living space and plenty of potential for the right buyer. The property features vinyl siding, tile and carpet flooring, and a convenient carport for parking. With its spacious layout and multiple bedrooms, this home provides a solid foundation for renovation or customization. While the
Welcome home to Metro Apartments at Wood River. We offer beautifully upgraded 1- 2-and 3-bedroom apartments designed to elevate your everyday living. Nestled in a serene community, our homes feature the modern touches and unbeatable convenience you deserve.Apartment Highlights:Spacious, upgraded 1- 2-and 3-bedroom floor plans.Beautiful hardwood-style flooring throughout
LOCATED TWO EXITS FROM SIUE CAMPUS AND IN COVETED ROXANA SCHOOL DISTRICT. This 2-bedroom apartment is conveniently located near major thoroughfares and amenities. This generous owner provides a stove, refrigerator, in-unit washer and dryer, and lawn care. Off-street parking. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: There is a $48 application fee for each adult applicant. This pays for a nationwide background and
Perfect space for small family! Stackable washer/dryer in unit, off-street parking. Credit score needs to be 550+, pets must have owner approval.By submitting your information on this page you consent to being contacted by the Property Manager and RentEngine via SMS, phone, or email.
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