Living in East St. Louis, IL
A comprehensive, data-driven guide to life in East St. Louis. Housing costs, safety statistics, walkability, air quality, and neighborhood insights — all in one place.
Population: 18,796
East St. Louis at a Glance
Median Home Value
$55,100
Nat'l avg: $281,900
Median Rent
$1,354
Nat'l avg: $1,163
Violent Crime
4.3 per 1K
Nat'l avg: 3.7 per 1K
Walk Score
0/100
Car-Dependent
Median Income
$28,519
Nat'l avg: $74,580
Air Quality
AQI 43
Good
Climate Risk
Relatively Moderate
Score: 73.09645273685086
Population
18,796
National Average: Violent crime 3.7 per 1K, Property crime 17.5 per 1K
Car-Dependent
N/A
21
Student Demographics
East St. Louis is a place where your housing dollar stretches further than just about anywhere else in the US. Forget those national median home values of $350,000; here, you're looking at a median of just $55,100, which means homeownership is within reach for many. It's a city with a rich history and a strong sense of community, where you'll find a slower pace of life and a chance to truly connect with your neighbors. The vibe is one of resilience and authenticity, a place where people are working hard to rebuild and revitalize their city. From an investment perspective, East St. Louis presents a unique opportunity. While the median household income of $28,519 is significantly below the national average, the extremely low cost of living makes it possible to get ahead. The housing market offers incredible value, and with ongoing revitalization efforts, there's potential for significant appreciation. While the area is still working to improve, it's ideally suited for those seeking affordability and a chance to be part of a community with a strong spirit of perseverance.