Bloomington, Illinois

What It Is Like to Retire in Bloomington

Bloomington is a fast growing city located in central Illinois, and is the county seat of McLean County. It is adjacent to the town of Normal, and together these twin cities make up a vibrant region composed of about 170,000 residents, with much to offer in culture, higher education, parks and recreation. There are three colleges located in Bloomington-Normal which include Illinois Wesleyan Univ., Illinois State University and Heartland Community College. Chicago, St. Louis and Indianapolis are all within two hours of Bloomington. Photo of Miller Park Pavilion courtesy of Wikipedia and Bloomington Parks & Recreation Department (public domain). Photo of the David Davis Mansion, a National Historic Landmark, on the National Register of Historic Places, courtesy of Wikipedia and A mcmurray, photo of The McLean County Courthouse & Square courtesy of Wikipedia and Michael from Palatine, Illinois, Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0/ .

Watch this short Youtube video of Bloomington-Normal presented by VisitBN:

Where to Retire in Bloomington and Home Prices

The National Association of Realtors report the median price of a home in Bloomington to be $184,000 in the 2nd quarter of 2021.

What Is Special about Bloomington

The Bloomington-Normal area is growing and affordable. It is home to 3 colleges that offer sporting and cultural events, along with several parks, golf courses, an indoor ice center, and a performing arts center; the towns host several festivals and events throughout the year; Amtrak offers daily trains to Chicago and St. Louis.

What Is Not Special about Bloomington

High taxes and cold winters.

Who Will Like Retirement in Bloomington

Bloomington-Normal offers retirees a lot with an active parks and recreation program designed for seniors at the Miller Park Adult Center. Heartland Community College offers continuing education, personal enrichment, and a fitness and recreation center. Bloomington is also home to medical care, a library, a regional airport, and many parks and golf courses.

Local Economy Is Driven by

The economy is driven by finance and insurance, and education; State Farm Insurance is headquartered here and is by far the largest employer; Illinois State University is also a major employer; Beer Nuts are produced here.

Climate and Physical Environment

The average January temperature is 26 degrees, with July's average 75 degrees. The average winter snowfall is abut 21 inches.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Between the twin cities of Bloomington and Normal, there are many restaurants from which to choose. Culturally, there is also a lot to experience here with the Bloomington Center for the Performing arts, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, The Illinois Shakespeare Festival, along with historical sites and tours, and the many events that the colleges located here have to offer.

Crime

The crime rate is below the national average.

Medical facilities

There are medical centers and facilities in both Bloomington and Normal.

Transportation

The Bloomington-Normal area is serviced by a bus system, Amtrak, and a regional airport; The nearest International airport is about 45 miles away in Peoria. The town is not considered walkable and there are few bike lanes.

Valuable Links

City of Bloomington Visit BN