Urbana Champaign, located in central Ohio, is a vibrant urban area known for its educational institutions, cultural diversity, and rich community life. The city is home to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and boasts a mix of suburban charm and urban amenities. This article explores the best residential areas in Urbana Champaign, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
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Campustown
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Campustown is a bustling neighborhood adjacent to the University of Illinois, making it a hotspot for students and young professionals. The area is teeming with restaurants, cafes, and shops that cater to the university crowd.
Characteristics of the Campustown
* Culture: Vibrant student life, diverse food choices, and cultural festivals.
* Transportation: Excellent public transport options; bike-friendly.
* Services: Grocery stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and university facilities.
* Environment: Lively and energetic with a youthful vibe.
Housing Options in the Campustown
Apartments, Shared housing, Townhomes.
Average Home Prices in the Campustown
* Buying: $200,000 – $350,000
* Renting: $900 – $1,500/month
West Urbana
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West Urbana offers a quieter suburban feel with spacious homes and tree-lined streets. It is popular among families seeking good schools and local parks.
Characteristics of the West Urbana
* Culture: Family-oriented community with local events and activities for children.
* Transportation: Car-friendly with some public transit options.
* Services: Supermarkets, schools, and recreational facilities.
* Environment: Peaceful and community-focused, ideal for families.
Housing Options in the West Urbana
Single-family homes, Duplexes.
Average Home Prices in the West Urbana
* Buying: $250,000 – $400,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,800/month
East Urbana
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East Urbana is known for its affordability and proximity to major thoroughfares. This area is diverse and features a mix of historic homes and newer developments.
Characteristics of the East Urbana
* Culture: Diverse community with access to local art and cultural events.
* Transportation: Good access to highways and public transport.
* Services: Various retail shops, food banks, and healthcare services.
* Environment: Eclectic and diverse, home to families and young professionals alike.
Housing Options in the East Urbana
Bungalows, Single-family homes, Apartments.
Average Home Prices in the East Urbana
* Buying: $150,000 – $250,000
* Renting: $700 – $1,200/month
Downtown Champaign
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Downtown Champaign serves as the urban core, filled with a mixture of residential and commercial spaces. It is a trendy area ideal for those wanting an urban lifestyle.
Characteristics of the Downtown Champaign
* Culture: Art galleries, theaters, and music venues create a vibrant arts scene.
* Transportation: Convenient public transportation and walkable streets.
* Services: Restaurants, shops, and entertainment options are abundant.
* Environment: Urban and bustling, ideal for those seeking nightlife and dining.
Housing Options in the Downtown Champaign
Lofts, Condominiums, Apartments.
Average Home Prices in the Downtown Champaign
* Buying: $250,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $2,000/month
Savoy
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Savoy is a family-friendly suburb adjacent to Urbana Champaign. It features modern developments, parks, and excellent schools.
Characteristics of the Savoy
* Culture: Community-oriented with many parks and recreational programs.
* Transportation: Car-friendly; some public transit options available.
* Services: Shopping centers, schools, and family services.
* Environment: Suburban and spacious, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Housing Options in the Savoy
Single-family homes, Townhomes.
Average Home Prices in the Savoy
* Buying: $230,000 – $370,000
* Renting: $1,100 – $1,700/month
North Champaign
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North Champaign offers an affordable housing option and is characterized by its mix of single-family homes and rental properties. It is home to a diverse population.
Characteristics of the North Champaign
* Culture: Diverse community with various cultural influences and gatherings.
* Transportation: Accessible through major roads; basic public transport available.
* Services: Local shops, community centers, and schools.
* Environment: Inclusive and friendly, with a sense of community.
Housing Options in the North Champaign
Single-family homes, Apartments.
Average Home Prices in the North Champaign
* Buying: $120,000 – $220,000
* Renting: $600 – $1,100/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Urbana Champaign:
The best residential areas in Urbana Champaign include Campustown, West Urbana, East Urbana, Downtown Champaign, Savoy, and North Champaign.
West Urbana and Savoy are both excellent for families due to their good schools and family-friendly ambiance.
East Urbana and North Champaign are known for their more affordable housing options.
Downtown Champaign offers the best urban lifestyle with numerous dining and entertainment options.
Yes, Urbana Champaign has a reliable public transportation system, especially around the university and downtown areas.
Savoy and West Urbana have numerous parks and community recreational facilities, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
Yes, with the presence of the university and numerous businesses, there are ample employment opportunities in various fields.
In Campustown, you can find apartments, shared housing, and townhomes catering primarily to students and young professionals.
North Champaign has a diverse and inclusive community with a friendly atmosphere, offering various community events.
The cost of living in Urbana Champaign is relatively affordable compared to other urban areas, with housing costs reflecting various neighborhood characteristics.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Urbana Champaign:
Urbana Champaign is a vibrant community with diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique traits suitable for different lifestyles. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or a family seeking a suburban lifestyle, there's a neighborhood for you. With its rich cultural scene, educational institutions, and community-oriented environment, Urbana Champaign provides an excellent quality of life. Understanding the characteristics and average prices among these residential areas will aid you in making a well-informed decision about where to live.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.