What to know when moving to Belleville, IL
Belleville at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 33.7% of residents are renters and the median household income is $65,261.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $976, making it a budget-friendly option compared to nearby areas.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 14.7%, some residents face financial challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 3.9% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for about 36.4 inches of rain annually, with 86 rainy days.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Belleville is home to approximately 19,391 residents, where 28.2% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The rental market is active, with one-third of the population renting their homes. The area experiences a moderate amount of rainfall, averaging 36.4 inches annually, which might be a consideration for those who prefer drier climates.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for extensive public transportation options, as only 3.9% of residents use it to commute.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- The median household income is $65,261, which supports a reasonable cost of living.
- Median gross rent is $976, making it accessible for many residents.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $141,300, indicating a stable housing market.
- The poverty rate stands at 14.7%, reflecting some economic challenges within the community.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Illinois, crime rates show a downward trend in several areas, which is promising for residents.
- Violent crime rate is 245.7 per 100,000, which is 24.5% lower than the national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime rate stands at 1,549 per 100,000, slightly above the national average of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 52.6% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).
Schools & Higher Ed
There are 2 postsecondary institutions in the area, providing options for higher education.
- Southwestern Illinois College, located in Belleville.
- McKendree University, located in nearby Lebanon.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
St. Clair County experiences about 36.4 inches of precipitation annually, with 86 rainy days to plan around. The area sees minimal snowfall, averaging just 1.4 inches per year.
- O'Fallon Family Sports Park - 4.7 stars (1,921 reviews)
- Moody Park - 4.6 stars (968 reviews)
- Belle-Clair Fairgrounds Park - 4.3 stars (861 reviews)
- Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park - 4.3 stars (683 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in St. Clair County shows a mix of opportunities and challenges.
- Unemployment rate is at 5.0% as of December 2025.
- There are 113,037 employed individuals in the county.
- The total labor force is 118,966.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.