The Best Small Towns To Retire In Illinois

Illinois retirement should not have to mean "quiet" in the boring sense. Picture a morning wandering Galena’s postcard-perfect Main Street, where 19th-century buildings now hold cozy shops and galleries, then you’re watching the Mississippi roll by with a coffee in hand. Or maybe your ideal pace is a town like Arcola, where the median home value is about $151,667 and leaves room in the budget for a round at the local golf course and an easy afternoon by a fishing lake? And if you prefer your nature with a side of convenience, we've got you covered, too. In Murphysboro, Lake Murphysboro State Park is close enough for a quick trail fix, with Carbondale and Marion nearby when you want extra amenities. Below are the best Illinois picks for senior life, from buzzing districts to exceptional outdoor adventures.

Galena

Galena is a small town in the northwest corner of the state and on the banks of the Mississippi River. With its rolling hills, quaint shops, historic buildings, and friendly people, Galena is an ideal destination for retirees looking to slow down and enjoy life. Home prices reflect Galena’s popularity, with a median home value of about $298,797.

It boasts a vibrant art and music scene with galleries, theaters, and an annual outdoor festival. Retirees can enjoy the Galena Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce and local artisanal products every second Wednesday of the month. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Apple River Canyon State Park or discover one of the many wineries in Jo Daviess County. The town also boasts excellent public schools and healthcare facilities that provide quality care to its residents. For those who love small-town charm without sacrificing modern amenities, Galena is an ideal retirement destination.

Arcola

Located just south of Champaign-Urbana, Arcola is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retirement. For starters, Arcola offers some of the most affordable housing in Illinois, with a median home value of about $151,667. Retirees can find beautiful homes at reasonable prices that are perfect for settling into a comfortable retirement lifestyle. In addition to low-cost housing options, Arcola also boasts a variety of amenities, such as shopping centers, restaurants, and a wide variety of recreational activities.

In Arcola, there is no shortage of things to do outdoors. Hiking and camping at the nearby Kickapoo State Recreation Area is a popular activity. The town also boasts its own golf course, Kaskaskia Country Club, a lake for fishing and swimming, as well as several parks perfect for walking or simply relaxing in nature's beauty.

Murphysboro

Located in Jackson County, Murphysboro offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere with small-town charm, all while still being close enough to larger cities for additional amenities. The city is home to approximately 7,000 residents, making it one of the smaller towns in the area. Murphysboro is nestled between hills and farmland along the banks of the Big Muddy River and gives retirees access to an array of outdoor activities, such as Lake Murphysboro State Park, which features miles of nature trails for hikers and bikers alike. The median home value is about $104,864.

For those seeking a more urban experience, Murphysboro is only a short drive away from larger cities like Carbondale and Marion. Residents can access big city amenities while still living in the serenity of small-town life. For those seeking medical care, there are two hospitals located within 10 miles of Murphysboro: Memorial Hospital and Heartland Regional Medical Center. Both hospitals have a full staff of professionals offering a variety of medical services.

Paxton

Situated in Ford County, the town of Paxton has a population of approximately 4,400 people. It has a charming downtown area with an array of shops and restaurants, and its location provides easy access to nearby cities such as Peoria, Bloomington-Normal, Champaign-Urbana, Springfield, and Decatur.

Retirees living in Paxton can enjoy scenic views of farmland from their homes or take advantage of outdoor activities at nearby parks like Allerton Park. The city also offers many cultural attractions each summer that include music, food vendors, and parades. Retirement-aged residents can find plenty of housing options ranging from affordable single-family homes (median home value about $146,557) to luxury condos and retirement communities with amenities.

Petersburg

Petersburg is a small town in the center of Menard County, close to Springfield. With a population of just over 2,000 residents, it’s an ideal spot for retirees seeking a peaceful, secluded environment. The median home value is about $192,441, proving this charming community has something for everyone.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Petersburg offers numerous recreational options. The town features public parks with picnic tables, playgrounds, pavilions, and walking trails. Additionally, Sangchris Lake State Park nearby provides extensive nature trails perfect for biking or hiking. Regarding dining, Petersburg’s diverse eateries include Italian, Mexican, barbecue, and burger joints, ensuring plenty of choices for all tastes.

Olney

Olney is a small town situated in the southeastern part of the state, making it an ideal place for retirees seeking a peaceful and friendly environment. Regarding housing, the median home value is about $126,204. The town offers many activities for those who want to remain active, including multiple golf courses like the Richland Country Club, various walking trails, and parks with scenic natural views. Additionally, Olney boasts a lively cultural scene with several museums, galleries, libraries, and theaters accessible to both visitors and residents alike.

The community atmosphere is warm and welcoming, featuring a range of clubs and events for locals. Retirees can enjoy weekly bingo at the senior center or join monthly book clubs, providing numerous opportunities to connect with neighbors. The town also has several churches that offer spiritual guidance and worship services for those interested.

Salem

Salem is an excellent choice for retirees seeking small-town living in southern Illinois. Situated in the heart of the region, Salem offers a peaceful lifestyle and a wealth of history to explore. With a population of just under 8,000, it provides all essential amenities and services needed during retirement without feeling crowded or overwhelmed. The community offers numerous recreational options, including walking trails, golf courses, parks, fishing ponds, and tennis courts. For indoor enthusiasts, there are museums focused on local history and culture, like the Salem Area History Museum, along with shopping centers featuring unique boutiques. Plus, Salem's proximity to St. Louis makes it easy to enjoy big city attractions such as the zoo, botanical gardens, and professional sports events.

No matter what kind of retirement lifestyle you are looking for, there is an ideal spot in Illinois for you to call home. From Galena to Salem, these welcoming communities are just a few of the many incredible places to consider for your retirement journey. With each one offering something different yet equally appealing, take time to explore these gems in the Prairie State.