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Princeton, IL

View of Princeton, IL
Image credit: Kepper66 / CC BY-SA 4.0
Population
7,674
U.S. Census Population Estimates Program · 2025
Elevation
718 ft
Median Home Value
$134,700
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Rent
$782/mo
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Income
$61,946
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
General Quality
Overall rating out of 100

Highlights

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OverallBest places in IllinoisPopulation rankingHighest population places in IllinoisNearest larger communityOttawa, Illinois33 miles away · 18,684 residents.

About Princeton

Located in north-central Illinois, Princeton offers a classic small-town feel with plenty of Midwestern charm. Home to around 7,800 residents, it serves as the county seat of Bureau County and features tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a walkable downtown. The community is especially proud of its heritage, which includes the Owen Lovejoy Homestead, a National Historic Landmark that once served as a prominent stop on the Underground Railroad.

109 West Park Ave., Princeton, IL c. 1915

Daily life here centers around a lively Main Street filled with independent shops, cozy cafes, and local eateries. Every September, the community comes together for the annual Homestead Festival, celebrating town pride with parades, barbecue, and family-friendly events. With convenient Amtrak service for easy trips into Chicago, the iconic Red Covered Bridge just north of town, and a quiet, welcoming pace, Princeton is an attractive option for newcomers looking to settle down.

Top Rating Signals

Highest current ratings for this town.

Lower County Wildfire Hazard Potential ClassA+100.0ratingLower Projected Late-Century County-Area Exposure to Sea-Level RiseA+100.0ratingSmall Town FitA+99.1rating

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