Looking for affordable housing in Illinois? According to the Zillow Home Value Index, the Prairie State offers diverse neighborhoods with surprisingly accessible price points. This analysis brings you the 25 least expensive neighborhoods in Illinois as of February 2025, with historical comparisons dating back to 2010.
You might be surprised to discover that Illinois’ most affordable neighborhoods are concentrated in a few key cities, with Danville, Rockford, Springfield, and Peoria dominating the list. While Chicago dominates the Illinois real estate conversation, only two of its neighborhoods appear among the state’s 25 most affordable areas. The average home value among these neighborhoods is approximately $65,000, with some areas experiencing significant growth over the past 15 years despite their affordability.
When examining these neighborhoods, you’ll notice distinct patterns emerging since 2010: most areas experienced their lowest values around 2015 before beginning a recovery that accelerated after 2020. This post-pandemic surge presents potential investment opportunities in communities that remain within reach for first-time homebuyers and investors alike, with average growth rates of 15-20% in just the last five years.
1. Lincoln Park (Springfield)
- 2025 Value: $89,141
- 2020 Value: $79,300
- 2015 Value: $68,200
- 2010 Value: $76,400
- Change 2010-2025: +16.7%
- Change 2015-2025: +30.7%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.4%
Near the historic Lincoln home in Illinois’ capital city, Springfield’s Lincoln Park neighborhood tops our list while combining historical significance with housing affordability. You’ll appreciate how this area has steadily recovered from its 2015 low point, with values climbing nearly 31% in the decade since. With February 2025 values at $89,141, Lincoln Park provides access to stable government employment and Lincoln tourism amenities at prices well below state averages. The consistent 12.4% growth since 2020 aligns with the area’s longer-term performance, suggesting reliable, moderate appreciation without dramatic market swings.
2. Old Towne (Rockford)
- 2025 Value: $86,944
- 2020 Value: $77,300
- 2015 Value: $55,800
- 2010 Value: $73,400
- Change 2010-2025: +18.5%
- Change 2015-2025: +55.8%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.5%
In the historic heart of Rockford, Old Towne presents you with distinctive architectural character and urban amenities at prices that remain remarkably accessible. You’ll be impressed by this district’s extraordinary recovery from its 2015 low point, with values climbing nearly 56% over the following decade. With February 2025 values at $86,944, Old Towne offers significant value for a neighborhood with historic significance and proximity to Rockford’s revitalizing downtown. The 12.5% appreciation since 2020 demonstrates continued interest in this established urban district with its blend of commercial and residential properties.
3. Coronado Haskell (Rockford)
- 2025 Value: $82,342
- 2020 Value: $73,200
- 2015 Value: $52,900
- 2010 Value: $69,800
- Change 2010-2025: +18.0%
- Change 2015-2025: +55.7%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.5%
Adjacent to Rockford’s historic Coronado Theatre, the Coronado Haskell neighborhood gives you access to cultural amenities and historic architecture at remarkably affordable prices. You’ll notice this area has experienced impressive appreciation after recovering from its 2015 low point, with values increasing more than 55% in the decade since. At $82,342 in February 2025, Coronado Haskell offers distinctive urban character within Illinois’ third-largest city at a price point far below comparable neighborhoods in Chicago or its suburbs. The solid 12.5% growth since 2020 indicates the neighborhood’s continued appeal as remote work allows more buyers to consider locations outside the Chicago metro area.
4. Prairie Hill (Rockford)
- 2025 Value: $81,636
- 2020 Value: $72,600
- 2015 Value: $52,400
- 2010 Value: $69,200
- Change 2010-2025: +18.0%
- Change 2015-2025: +55.8%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.4%
On the northwestern side of Rockford, Prairie Hill offers you suburban character within Illinois’ third-largest city at prices that defy metropolitan expectations. You’ll be struck by this neighborhood’s impressive recovery from its 2015 low point, with values surging nearly 56% over the following decade. At $81,636 in February 2025, Prairie Hill presents excellent value for a neighborhood with established homes and community amenities. The solid 12.4% growth since 2020 demonstrates continued interest in Rockford’s residential districts as remote work expands housing options for many families.
5. Harvard Park (Springfield)
- 2025 Value: $79,364
- 2020 Value: $70,200
- 2015 Value: $60,200
- 2010 Value: $67,400
- Change 2010-2025: +17.8%
- Change 2015-2025: +31.8%
- Change 2020-2025: +13.1%
In the southern portion of Illinois’ capital city, Harvard Park provides you with established neighborhood character and excellent value. You’ll find this community has maintained steady growth after recovering from its 2015 low point, with values increasing nearly 32% over the decade. With February 2025 values at $79,364, Harvard Park combines affordability with access to the employment stability that comes with proximity to state government. The 13.1% appreciation since 2020 reflects the area’s consistent appeal as a family-friendly district with reliable, if moderate, growth potential.
6. Beverly Park (Rockford)
- 2025 Value: $74,326
- 2020 Value: $66,200
- 2015 Value: $47,700
- 2010 Value: $63,200
- Change 2010-2025: +17.6%
- Change 2015-2025: +55.8%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.3%
Adjacent to its namesake green space in Rockford, Beverly Park neighborhood gives you park-side living at prices that would be unimaginable in Chicago or its suburbs. You’ll be impressed by this area’s remarkable recovery from its 2015 low point, with values climbing nearly 56% in the decade since. At $74,326 in February 2025, Beverly Park offers excellent value for a neighborhood with recreational amenities and established character. The solid 12.3% growth since 2020 demonstrates continued interest in Rockford neighborhoods as the city pursues economic diversification beyond its manufacturing roots.
7. Oak Ridge (Springfield)
- 2025 Value: $72,723
- 2020 Value: $64,200
- 2015 Value: $55,400
- 2010 Value: $62,100
- Change 2010-2025: +17.1%
- Change 2015-2025: +31.3%
- Change 2020-2025: +13.3%
In Illinois’ capital city, the Oak Ridge neighborhood provides you with affordable living and access to stable government employment. You’ll appreciate how this community has steadily recovered from its 2015 low point, with values increasing more than 31% in the decade since. With February 2025 values at $72,723, Oak Ridge offers excellent value for a neighborhood in a state capital with the employment stability that government centers typically provide. The 13.3% growth since 2020 demonstrates the area’s continued appeal in the post-pandemic market.
8. Golden Gate (Chicago)
- 2025 Value: $71,970
- 2020 Value: $59,600
- 2015 Value: $36,800
- 2010 Value: $43,400
- Change 2010-2025: +65.8%
- Change 2015-2025: +95.6%
- Change 2020-2025: +20.8%
On Chicago’s far south side, Golden Gate represents another of the city’s remarkable affordability stories. You’ll be amazed by this neighborhood’s extraordinary growth trajectory—nearly doubling in value since its 2015 low point and increasing almost 66% since 2010. Despite this remarkable appreciation, February 2025 values remain accessible at $71,970, extraordinarily affordable for Chicago real estate. The impressive 20.8% growth since 2020 significantly outpaces state averages, suggesting this area’s revitalization continues to accelerate.
9. West Bluff (Peoria)
- 2025 Value: $70,478
- 2020 Value: $62,300
- 2015 Value: $51,600
- 2010 Value: $60,200
- Change 2010-2025: +17.1%
- Change 2015-2025: +36.6%
- Change 2020-2025: +13.1%
Situated on elevated terrain overlooking downtown Peoria, West Bluff offers you hillside vistas and distinctive homes at prices far below Illinois averages. You’ll find this neighborhood has steadily appreciated since its 2015 low point, with values rising nearly 37% over the decade. With February 2025 values at $70,478, West Bluff provides remarkable value for a neighborhood with architectural character and proximity to major Peoria employers, including healthcare systems and Caterpillar corporate facilities. The solid 13.1% growth since 2020 demonstrates continued interest in this established area with its blend of historic homes and scenic views.
10. Cunningham Street (Rockford)
- 2025 Value: $69,634
- 2020 Value: $61,900
- 2015 Value: $44,800
- 2010 Value: $59,500
- Change 2010-2025: +17.0%
- Change 2015-2025: +55.4%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.5%
In Rockford’s diverse urban landscape, the Cunningham Street neighborhood gives you access to city amenities at prices that remain remarkably affordable. You’ll be impressed by this area’s strong recovery from its 2015 low point, with values climbing more than 55% in the decade since. At $69,634 in February 2025, Cunningham Street represents excellent value for urban property within Illinois’ third-largest city. The 12.5% growth since 2020 demonstrates sustained interest in Rockford neighborhoods as the city continues its economic diversification and downtown revitalization.
11. West Gateway (Rockford)
- 2025 Value: $69,074
- 2020 Value: $61,400
- 2015 Value: $44,600
- 2010 Value: $59,100
- Change 2010-2025: +16.9%
- Change 2015-2025: +54.9%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.5%
Serving as an entrance corridor to Rockford’s downtown, West Gateway presents you with urban potential at prices that defy metropolitan expectations. You’ll notice this neighborhood has demonstrated remarkable resilience, rebounding nearly 55% from its 2015 low point. With February 2025 values at $69,074, West Gateway offers affordable city living with improving amenities as Rockford continues its downtown revitalization efforts. The 12.5% appreciation since 2020 reflects steady post-pandemic recovery that suggests continued interest in this strategically located district.
12. South Sixth Street (Rockford)
- 2025 Value: $69,018
- 2020 Value: $61,300
- 2015 Value: $44,300
- 2010 Value: $58,900
- Change 2010-2025: +17.2%
- Change 2015-2025: +55.8%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.6%
Along a historic corridor in Rockford, the South Sixth Street neighborhood showcases another example of impressive post-recession recovery. You’ll be struck by this area’s dramatic rebound from its 2015 low point, with values surging nearly 56% over the following decade. At $69,018 in February 2025, South Sixth Street offers affordable entry into Illinois’ third-largest city, with distinctive urban character at a fraction of Chicago prices. The solid 12.6% growth since 2020 demonstrates continued interest in this rebounding neighborhood.
13. Ford City (Chicago)
- 2025 Value: $68,660
- 2020 Value: $56,400
- 2015 Value: $34,600
- 2010 Value: $40,200
- Change 2010-2025: +70.8%
- Change 2015-2025: +98.4%
- Change 2020-2025: +21.7%
On Chicago’s southwest side, Ford City represents one of the city’s most remarkable value propositions and transformation stories. You’ll be astonished by this neighborhood’s extraordinary growth trajectory—nearly doubling in value since its 2015 low point and increasing almost 71% since 2010. Despite this remarkable appreciation, February 2025 values remain accessible at $68,660, extraordinarily affordable for a Chicago neighborhood. The impressive 21.7% growth since 2020 significantly outpaces the state average, suggesting this area’s revitalization continues to gather momentum.
14. Enos Park (Springfield)
- 2025 Value: $67,890
- 2020 Value: $60,400
- 2015 Value: $52,100
- 2010 Value: $58,700
- Change 2010-2025: +15.7%
- Change 2015-2025: +30.3%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.4%
In the shadow of Illinois’ state capital buildings, Enos Park in Springfield offers you historic charm at a surprisingly affordable price. You’ll find this centrally-located neighborhood has maintained steady growth after recovering from its 2015 low point, with values increasing 30% in the decade since. With February 2025 values at $67,890, Enos Park provides access to stable government employment and Lincoln tourism amenities at prices well below state averages. The 12.4% growth since 2020 aligns with the area’s longer-term performance, suggesting reliable, moderate appreciation without dramatic market swings.
15. Old Aristocracy Hill (Springfield)
- 2025 Value: $67,543
- 2020 Value: $59,800
- 2015 Value: $51,400
- 2010 Value: $58,200
- Change 2010-2025: +16.1%
- Change 2015-2025: +31.4%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.9%
With a name that hints at its historic pedigree, Springfield’s Old Aristocracy Hill gives you architectural character and capital city amenities at surprisingly accessible prices. You’ll appreciate how this neighborhood has steadily recovered from its 2015 low point, with values climbing more than 31% in the decade since. With February 2025 values at $67,543, Old Aristocracy Hill provides affordable entry into a district with distinctive historic homes and proximity to the state government complex. The nearly 13% growth since 2020 reflects steady interest in this historically significant area.
16. Midtown (Rockford)
- 2025 Value: $65,859
- 2020 Value: $58,300
- 2015 Value: $42,500
- 2010 Value: $56,800
- Change 2010-2025: +16.0%
- Change 2015-2025: +55.0%
- Change 2020-2025: +13.0%
In Illinois’ third-largest city, Rockford’s Midtown district offers you urban amenities and distinctive character at prices that defy metropolitan averages. You’ll be impressed by this area’s remarkable recovery from its 2015 low point, with values surging 55% over the following decade. At $65,859 in February 2025, Midtown provides affordable entry into a neighborhood experiencing cultural revitalization, with emerging arts venues and local businesses creating a distinctive urban experience. The 13% growth since 2020 suggests continued momentum as buyers rediscover the appeal of historic urban neighborhoods.
17. Holiday Hills (Danville)
- 2025 Value: $64,700
- 2020 Value: $57,300
- 2015 Value: $50,800
- 2010 Value: $56,400
- Change 2010-2025: +14.7%
- Change 2015-2025: +27.4%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.9%
On the northwestern side of Danville, Holiday Hills presents you with suburban character at prices that seem almost impossible compared to larger Illinois cities. You’ll note how this neighborhood has steadily recovered from its 2015 low point, with values increasing more than 27% in the decade since. With February 2025 values at $64,700, Holiday Hills exemplifies the exceptional value available in smaller Illinois cities, where your housing dollar provides significantly more space and amenities than in metropolitan areas. The nearly 13% growth since 2020 reflects steady, sustainable appreciation without speculative volatility.
18. Lincoln Park (Danville)
- 2025 Value: $63,704
- 2020 Value: $56,200
- 2015 Value: $49,800
- 2010 Value: $55,600
- Change 2010-2025: +14.6%
- Change 2015-2025: +27.9%
- Change 2020-2025: +13.4%
Adjacent to its namesake green space in Danville, Lincoln Park neighborhood gives you park-side living at prices that defy Illinois averages. You’ll find this community has demonstrated steady resilience after its 2015 low point, with values climbing nearly 28% in the decade since. At $63,704 in February 2025, Lincoln Park offers considerable value for a neighborhood with recreational amenities and established character. The 13.4% appreciation since 2020 reflects the area’s consistent performance as a stable, moderately appreciating market without dramatic swings.
19. Vermilion Heights (Danville)
- 2025 Value: $62,871
- 2020 Value: $55,400
- 2015 Value: $48,700
- 2010 Value: $54,300
- Change 2010-2025: +15.8%
- Change 2015-2025: +29.1%
- Change 2020-2025: +13.5%
Located in the eastern reaches of Danville, Vermilion Heights offers you established neighborhood character with easy access to the Indiana border. You’ll appreciate how this area has steadily recovered from its 2015 low point, with values increasing nearly 30% in the decade since. With February 2025 values at $62,871, Vermilion Heights provides solid housing value with a consistency that appeals to risk-averse buyers. The 13.5% growth since 2020 demonstrates the area’s steady appeal in the post-pandemic market.
20. East Bluff (Peoria)
- 2025 Value: $62,218
- 2020 Value: $54,600
- 2015 Value: $45,800
- 2010 Value: $53,200
- Change 2010-2025: +16.9%
- Change 2015-2025: +35.8%
- Change 2020-2025: +14.0%
Perched on the elevations overlooking the Illinois River, East Bluff in Peoria gives you hillside views and established neighborhood character at prices substantially below Illinois averages. You’ll notice this area has shown impressive resilience after recovering from its 2015 low point, with values increasing almost 36% in the decade since. At $62,218 in February 2025, East Bluff represents excellent value for a neighborhood with distinctive topography and proximity to both downtown Peoria and major healthcare employers. The 14% growth since 2020 demonstrates steady, sustainable appreciation that makes this an attractive option for those seeking stable housing markets with moderate but reliable equity building potential while enjoying the amenities of central Illinois’ largest metropolitan area.
21. Bunn Park (Springfield)
- 2025 Value: $48,931
- 2020 Value: $43,100
- 2015 Value: $36,400
- 2010 Value: $41,200
- Change 2010-2025: +18.8%
- Change 2015-2025: +34.4%
- Change 2020-2025: +13.5%
Adjacent to its namesake city park in Illinois’ capital city, Springfield’s Bunn Park neighborhood offers you green space and recreation access at prices well below state averages. You’ll discover this community has maintained steady growth after recovering from its 2015 low point, with values increasing more than 34% over the decade. With February 2025 values at $48,931, Bunn Park combines affordability with proximity to government employment centers and Lincoln-related tourism attractions. The 13.5% appreciation since 2020 demonstrates continued interest in this family-friendly neighborhood where your housing dollar secures not just a home but access to an established park system and the stability that comes with living in a state capital city.
22. Rabbittown (Danville)
- 2025 Value: $35,754
- 2020 Value: $31,800
- 2015 Value: $26,100
- 2010 Value: $29,600
- Change 2010-2025: +20.8%
- Change 2015-2025: +37.0%
- Change 2020-2025: +12.4%
With a whimsical name that stands out on our list, Danville’s Rabbittown neighborhood provides you with remarkable housing value in eastern Illinois. You’ll appreciate how this area has steadily recovered from its 2015 low point, with values rising 37% over the following decade. At $35,754 in February 2025, Rabbittown makes homeownership accessible on even modest incomes while providing the stability of a neighborhood that has shown consistent, if moderate, appreciation over time. The 12.4% growth since 2020 reflects a steady trajectory rather than speculative spikes, making this an ideal area for risk-averse buyers seeking affordable entry into the housing market without the volatility that often characterizes higher-priced regions.
23. North Valley (Peoria)
- 2025 Value: $34,932
- 2020 Value: $30,600
- 2015 Value: $23,900
- 2010 Value: $28,300
- Change 2010-2025: +23.4%
- Change 2015-2025: +46.2%
- Change 2020-2025: +14.2%
Nestled between the Illinois River and downtown Peoria, North Valley gives you access to one of Illinois’ major urban centers at a remarkably accessible price point. You’ll find this riverside neighborhood has bounced back impressively from its 2015 low, with values climbing more than 46% in the decade since. With February 2025 values at $34,932, North Valley presents an affordable entry into Peoria’s housing market, with proximity to both waterfront recreation and urban amenities. The solid 14.2% appreciation since 2020 reflects steady post-pandemic recovery in this blue-collar neighborhood where industrial heritage and river views combine to create a distinctive community atmosphere that remains within reach for even modest budgets.
24. Center City (Danville)
- 2025 Value: $34,857
- 2020 Value: $30,100
- 2015 Value: $24,600
- 2010 Value: $27,800
- Change 2010-2025: +25.4%
- Change 2015-2025: +41.7%
- Change 2020-2025: +15.8%
In the heart of Danville lies Center City, where you’ll discover remarkable housing affordability within walking distance of downtown amenities. You’ll notice this neighborhood has steadily recovered from its 2015 low point, with values increasing by nearly 42% in the decade since. At $34,857 in February 2025, Center City offers urban convenience at a fraction of typical Illinois city prices. The consistent 15.8% growth since 2020 demonstrates the area’s continued appeal as small-city living gains popularity in the post-pandemic landscape.
25. Oaklawn Fairweight (Danville)
- 2025 Value: $30,018
- 2020 Value: $25,700
- 2015 Value: $19,800
- 2010 Value: $22,400
- Change 2010-2025: +33.9%
- Change 2015-2025: +51.6%
- Change 2020-2025: +16.8%
Tucked away in eastern Illinois near the Indiana border, Oaklawn Fairweight in Danville presents exceptional value for homebuyers. You’ll appreciate this neighborhood’s steady appreciation over the fifteen-year period, having weathered the housing market’s ups and downs to deliver a solid 33.9% return since 2010. With current values at $30,018, Oaklawn Fairweight remains remarkably affordable despite showing consistent growth. The moderate 16.8% increase since 2020 suggests stable, sustainable growth rather than volatile market swings, making this an attractive option for those seeking long-term housing security without breaking the bank.
