Name: Decatur, IL
Rating: 0.0

Get crime, demographics and other data for any location in Decatur, IL

( 21 Ratings )

Living in Decatur, IL

Ranks better than 58% of areas Follow

Population

71,857

Median Age

39.8 Years

Decatur Area Facts

Decatur has a Livability Score of 58_/100, which is considered below average
Decatur crime rates are 60% higher than the Illinois average
Cost of living in Decatur is 20% lower than the Illinois average

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What do the locals think about Decatur?

17%

Family friendly

43%

Public transit is accessible

26%

Walkable to grocery stores

30%

Yards are well-kept

78%

Lots of parks

17%

Walkable to restaurants

Friendly neighbors

Safe at night

Pet friendly

Streets have sidewalks

22%

A quiet area

26%

Sense of community

Based on 23 votes from AreaVibes users. Take the poll

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Decatur Reviews

Write a review about Decatur Tell people what you like or don't like about Decatur…

Stay on I-72...try Springfield or Champaign... 1.5 rating By skipw171 ( Jun 01, 2011) When the wind blows from the north a pall hangs over not only Decatur, but the entire southern area of Macon County in Central Illinois. This being the byproduct of what is called the savior of humanity, converting soy beans and corn into a myriad of other products. Some say th ...Read More e smell is similar to McDonald's fries, but I have to opt for something akin to rotten eggs and vinegar.

Decatur was named for Commodore Stephen Decatur, a military hero of the early 1890's, who was fortunate not to have any real connection with the city. In fact, history tells us that he may never had set foot in the town that bears his name. In this fact he is one of the fortunate ones. As one passes through Decatur they are struck by the vast number of churches in town, only to be equally impressed by the number of drinking establishments. It's as if the Good Lord, whatever denomination he or she might be, is constantly trying to establish some type of temperance, but failing.

There is the popular Lake Decatur, actually a bulge in what exits its southern boundary as the Sangamon River, where many resident enjoy aquatic recreation. From its banks, Lake Decatur appears dirty, but as many mid-west bodies of water, its only muddy. It's too thick to drink and too thin to plow and not at all appealing for swimming, as one has to dodge the many snakes and other water animals who call it home.

There are a few nice placed to eat in Decatur, namely, Porter's on Merchant, The Lincoln Lounge, Coney McKane's, The Beach House (just don't look at the lake), Tuscany's Steak and Pasta House. and some chain restaurants at the Hickory Point Mall, but check the wind direction lest a whiff of the soy bean / corn manufacture ruins what may have been a great dining experience.

The only lodging establishment worth considering in town is the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. Once there one really doesn't have need to leave. The rooms are, while not extravagant, are clean and well lighted. There is a choice of three restaurants, one being a sports bar. The food in all three is delightful. There are a wide choice of meeting rooms of all sizes, a heated indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna, and suites with large jacuzzi tubs.

All in all, stay on I-72 if you have a choice. You'll find Springfield or Champaign more conducive to a stay. Read Less

Decatur, IL - A Historic Destination 4 rating By Anonymous ( Jul 23, 2010) I enjoyed a daytrip with friends to the Decatur, IL. area in the summer of 2009. The city of Decatur features many outdoor activities and historical attractions.

We spent the day exploring the Lake Decatur area. The lovely lake offers many water recreation opportunities. Those w ...Read More ith their own boat will especially enjoy the lake. There is a marina and two lakeside restaurants. We ate lunch at the Beachside Restaurant and really enjoyed the fresh seafood and beautiful lake views. The lake also has batting cages and a miniature golf course available to entertain kids and those young at heart.

The Mari-Mann Herb Farm is advertised as one of the largest herb gardens in the Midwest and as a gardener myself, I really enjoyed touring the farm. We spent a relaxing few hours touring the gardens and greenhouse plus browsing the gift shop and health food store. Although we didn't eat there, they also feature a gourmet restaurant with expert chefs.

Decatur also offers a lot of Abraham Lincoln historic sites and museums. The Macon County Museum Complex, which is home to the courthouse where Lincoln practiced law; Richard J. Oglesby Mansion; Millikin Homestead; and Homestead Prairie Farm are just a few of the local historic sites.

Decatur is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Read Less