c.1896 Illinois Victorian-Era Home For Sale Under $90K
OHU50K Notes $89,900
Realtor Comments
This home features some unique natural woodwork, wood floors and an attractive carriage house in the back yard with a storage room and one stall for parking a car. Enclosed front and back porches and many newer replacement windows. Stairway features a stained glass window as you proceed to the 2nd floor. Original light fixture in office room. Ornamental electric fireplace in living room. The back upstairs sun porch adjoining the 3rd bedroom has a laundry area with washer and dryer included. Purington brick garden patio in back yard. GFA furnace in 2020, Central air 2021. Selling as is, where is cash buyers only or possibly those with large down payments and lender approval.
- 3 bed
- 2 bath
- 1,702 square feet
- Build date 1896
1262 N Broad St, Galesburg, IL 61401 $89,900
- Contact Realtor: Christine Pepmeyer
- Google Map
- Niche
Pros
Affordable Cost of Living
-
Overall cost is about 9–30% lower than the national average—housing is particularly affordable (32% below U.S. average), with median home values around $79,100 to $337K and typical rent near $820–$1,000 /mo
Strong Educational Presence
-
Home to reputable schools and colleges—Knox College (liberal arts) and Carl Sandburg College (community college)—which enrich the local culture and community
-
Public schools earn a C+ and Niche grades: Cost of Living A, Jobs B, but Crime C–
Parks, Trails & History
-
Tons of green space: Lake Storey Park, Discovery Depot for kids, railroad museum, and extensive trails .
-
Historic downtown (Seminary Street), Civil War heritage, and annual events like Railroad Days give it unique character
Good Connectivity
-
Served by Amtrak and city bus transit; interstate access makes travel easy. Downtown walkability is good
Welcoming Community
-
Residents report a family-friendly vibe and strong community spirit, with growing downtown residential interest supported by local grants
Cons
High Crime Rates
-
Crime is higher than ~79% of Illinois cities; violent crime risk is 1 in 291, property crime 1 in 84, notably high auto theft (1 in 181)
-
Niche Safety grade is C–; residents report safety concerns. Modest Job Market & Income
-
Median household income is ~$37K (about 40% below state average); unemployment ~5–6%, below national but still notable .
-
Employment opportunities are limited—jobs ranked B, but residents comment on low pay and scarce career growth
School Quality & Youth Amenities Vary
-
Public schools average a C+; standardized proficiency scores fall below state average .
-
Younger families may find entertainment and youth-focused amenities limited .
Declining Population & Downtown Challenges
-
Galesburg’s population has been declining; downtown foot traffic is low outside events
-
Efforts are underway (grants for loft apartments), but revitalization is still in progress
Transit & Healthcare Limitations
-
Only 1% use public transit; most trips require a car. Bus frequency is limited, affecting commute quality
-
Major hospitals are further out—local healthcare access is adequate but not comprehensive
Overall Summary
Galesburg offers affordability, historic charm, access to education, and strong community vibes—ideal for budget-conscious families, retirees, and students. However, opportunities come with tradeoffs: crime rates are higher, job prospects are limited, schools are average, and amenities and transit are modest. Downtown revitalization is ongoing, and healthcare access may require travel.
Local Voices
“Great place to raise a family… schools are excellent… cost of living low.”
“Jobs don’t pay enough… crime is horrible, shootings… strongly suggest avoiding Galesburg.”
‘*
*
