Three Bedroom Gem w/ Stained Glass – c.1892 Illinois Home $139K

Pros

• Very affordable housing. This is one of Galva’s biggest advantages. Homes are generally much cheaper than the Illinois state average, and you can often find older houses with substantial square footage for relatively little money.
• Low cost of living. Everyday expenses are generally manageable, especially compared with Chicago and other large Illinois metros.
• Quiet and low-density. With only a few thousand residents, Galva offers a peaceful lifestyle with little traffic and plenty of open space.
• Good small-town community. Galva has a strong local identity, community events, churches, civic organizations, and locally owned businesses.
• Historic downtown. The town has attractive older architecture and a traditional Midwestern downtown rather than feeling like a collection of subdivisions.
• Good location for rural living. You’re surrounded by farmland while still having access to larger communities such as Kewanee, Galesburg, and Peoria.
• Outdoor recreation. The surrounding countryside provides good opportunities for fishing, hunting, hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities.
• Reasonable access to larger cities. Galesburg is roughly 30 minutes away, Peoria around an hour, and the Quad Cities roughly an hour away, depending on the route.
• Schools are a positive. Galva is served by Galva CUSD 224, and the local school system tends to be viewed favorably for a community of this size.
• Low traffic. If you’re tired of city congestion, this is a significant quality-of-life advantage.
• Good environment for retirees. Quiet neighborhoods, inexpensive housing, and a slower pace can make Galva appealing if you don’t need a large job market.

Cons

• Limited local employment. This is probably the biggest drawback. The economy is centered around agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, education, and small businesses. Specialized professional opportunities are limited.
• Small-town amenities. There are restaurants and basic services, but you’ll be driving to Galesburg, Peoria, or the Quad Cities for major shopping, entertainment, and specialized services.
• Car dependent. Public transportation is very limited.
• Healthcare is limited locally. Basic healthcare is available, but major specialists and advanced medical care generally require traveling to a larger city.
• Illinois taxes. This is one of the major disadvantages compared with places like Texas. Illinois has a state income tax, and property taxes can be substantial relative to the cost of the house.
• Property taxes deserve special attention. A $100,000 house with a relatively high tax bill isn’t necessarily cheaper to own than a somewhat more expensive house in a lower-tax state.
• Cold winters. Expect snow, freezing temperatures, ice, and gray winter weather. Summers can also be hot and humid.
• Population/economic growth is limited. Galva isn’t a rapidly growing community. That can make real-estate appreciation less predictable.
• Older housing stock. Many of the inexpensive homes are older and may need work on roofs, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, or foundations.
• Limited nightlife. If you want bars, concerts, clubs, theaters, or lots of restaurants, you’ll have to leave town.
• Distance from major airports. For extensive air travel, you’ll generally be looking toward Peoria, Moline/Quad Cities, or farther.