Homer: A Hidden Gem in Champaign County with Affordable Living and Quality Education

Photo by Raphael Lopes/Unsplash

Located in Champaign County, Illinois, the Homer neighborhood is a charming town with a population of 1,123. Nestled in a rural setting, Homer offers residents a peaceful and close-knit community. With a majority of residents owning their homes, the neighborhood exudes a sense of stability and pride. Retirees make up a significant portion of the population, and the neighborhood leans conservative in its political views. The public schools in Homer are known for their above-average quality, making it an attractive place for families to settle down.

Population and Housing

With a population of 1,123, Homer is a tight-knit community where neighbors know each other by name. The median home value in Homer is $113,200, which is significantly lower than the national average of $244,900. This makes it an affordable place for residents to own their homes. The median rent in Homer is $882, compared to the national average of $1,163. The majority of residents in Homer, approximately 80%, own their homes, while the remaining 20% choose to rent.

Neighborhood Rankings

Homer has received favorable rankings in various aspects. According to Niche rankings, which are based on rigorous analysis of key statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and millions of reviews, Homer ranks above average in terms of public schools. This indicates that the neighborhood provides a quality education for its residents.

Photo by niche.com

Crime and Safety

Property Crimes(Calculated annually per 100,000 residents) vs National

• Theft 171.7 vs National 2042.8

Homer boasts a safe environment for its residents. Based on the analysis of violent and property crime rates, the neighborhood has lower crime rates compared to the national average. In terms of property crimes, such as burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, Homer's rates are significantly lower than the national average. This ensures that residents can feel secure in their homes and enjoy a peaceful living experience.

Resident Diversity

Age Distribution

• Age<10 years 0.08370436331255565
• 10-17 years 0.170080142475512
• 18-24 years 0.11932324131789848
• 25-34 years 0.11932324131789848
• 35-44 years 0.17809439002671415
• 45-54 years 0.1006233303650935
• 55-64 years 0.11219946571682991
• 65+ years 0.11665182546749778

Education Levels vs National

• Master's degree or higher 0.02556818181818182 vs National 0.130820341502415
• Bachelor's degree 0.12357954545454546 vs National 0.20587987553332618
• Some college or associate's degree 0.390625 vs National 0.2871688902051139
• High school diploma or equivalent 0.4161931818181818 vs National 0.2648712959947021
• Less than high school diploma 0.04403409090909091 vs National 0.1112595967644428

Homer is a diverse neighborhood in terms of age groups. The population breakdown by age is as follows: 8% are under 10 years old, 17% are between 10 and 17 years old, 12% are between 18 and 24 years old, 12% are between 25 and 34 years old, 18% are between 35 and 44 years old, 10% are between 45 and 54 years old, 11% are between 55 and 64 years old, and 12% are 65 years old or older. This diverse age range contributes to a vibrant and inclusive community in Homer.

Education and Schools

Education is highly valued in Homer, as reflected in the education levels of its residents. Compared to the national average, a smaller percentage of residents in Homer have not completed high school (3% vs 13%). However, a higher percentage of residents have obtained a high school diploma (39% vs 29%) and some college education (42% vs 26%). Additionally, 12% of residents in Homer hold a bachelor's degree or higher, surpassing the national average of 11%. The presence of top public schools, such as Heritage Junior High & Elementary School, Salt Fork Junior High School, Salt Fork North Elementary School, Salt Fork High School, and Heritage High School, further enhances the educational opportunities available to residents.

Similar Places like Homer

If you enjoy the charm and tranquility of Homer, you may also find similar places appealing. Nearby towns such as Chrisman, Bismarck, Sidney, Allerton, South Homer Township, Sadorus Township, Bowdre Township, and Sadorus offer a similar rural feel and close-knit community. These neighboring areas provide additional options for those seeking a peaceful and welcoming environment.

Homer Resident Reviews

Current residents of Homer have expressed their appreciation for the town's unique qualities. One resident mentions the town's annual 4th of July fireworks and soda fest, which draws hundreds of people and adds to the community's vibrant atmosphere. Growing up in Homer, this resident has always enjoyed the town's quiet and friendly nature. These positive reviews from current residents highlight the sense of community and pride that make Homer a desirable place to live.

Homer is a charming neighborhood in Champaign County, Illinois, offering a rural feel and a close-knit community. With its affordable housing options, above-average public schools, and low crime rates, Homer provides a safe and welcoming environment for residents of all ages. The neighborhood's diverse population and strong emphasis on education contribute to its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you are a retiree looking for a peaceful place to settle down or a family seeking a nurturing community for your children, Homer has something to offer. Come and experience the warmth and charm of Homer for yourself!

Disclaimer: The data and information cited in this article are sourced from Niche.com and are provided for informational purposes only. This content was assisted by AI and may contain errors. Please verify critical information with trusted sources. Learn more.