Peoria

Peoria is a city located in Central Illinois along the Illinois River. With a population of 114,265 as of 2021, it is the largest city along the Illinois River and the eighth most populous city in the state of Illinois.

Population and Demographics

According to recent census data, Peoria has a population of 114,265 residents, making it the eighth largest city in Illinois. The Peoria metropolitan area, which includes surrounding counties, has a population of 406,883. Peoria’s population has remained relatively stable over the past couple of decades, with growth between 2000 and 2010 of 3.2% and a slight decline of -0.5% between 2010 and 2021.

Peoria has a racial makeup of 62.7% White, 24.2% African American, 0.5% Native American, 4.6% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, and 3.7% from two or more races. Approximately 5.0% of residents identify as Hispanic or Latino of any race.

The median age in Peoria is 36.7 years old. 22.5% of the population is under age 18 and 14.4% is age 65 or older. There are slightly more female residents at 51.2% compared to 48.8% male.

Over 85% of Peoria residents have a high school degree or higher. And 27.4% hold a bachelor’s degree or advanced degree, which is lower than the national average.

History and Economy

Peoria was first settled in 1680 by French explorers and was officially incorporated as a town in 1835. The name Peoria comes from the Peoria tribe of Native Americans who inhabited the area.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Peoria experienced rapid growth as a manufacturing and industrial hub. Major companies like Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Keystone Steel and Wire established factories and offices in the area.

Today, manufacturing and healthcare are the backbone of Peoria’s economy. Caterpillar world headquarters is located in Peoria and employs over 10,000 workers in the area. The OSF Healthcare System provides over 11,000 jobs at facilities in Peoria and surrounding towns.

Other major employers in Peoria include Keystone Steel & Wire (steel mill), UnityPoint Health (healthcare), Advanced Technology Services (engineering), Bradley University (education), Ameren Illinois (energy), Maui Jim (eyewear manufacturing), and RLI Insurance.

The unemployment rate in Peoria was 5.8% as of June 2022, which was slightly higher than the national average of 3.6%. Job growth over the past decade has been sluggish compared to national figures.

Attractions and Landmarks

Peoria is home to a variety of attractions and landmarks that highlight the history and culture of the area. The Peoria Riverfront Museum features exhibits on art, history, science, and the environment. The museum is located on the Illinois River and has an IMAX theater.

The Caterpillar Visitors Center offers interactive exhibits and tours of Caterpillar manufacturing facilities. Visitors can see how Caterpillar equipment is made from start to finish.

The city’s historic downtown along the riverfront has buildings dating back to the late 1800s, as well as art galleries, restaurants, and shopping. The Peoria Civic Center hosts concerts and events.

Outdoor attractions include the Glen Oak Park and Zoo, the Rock Island Trail biking path, and the Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge along the Illinois River.

Sports

Peoria has a minor league baseball team called the Peoria Chiefs, a Class A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. The team plays at Dozer Park downtown along the riverfront. Several Peoria natives have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including Hall of Famer Joe Girardi.

The Peoria Rivermen are a professional minor league hockey team founded in 1996. They are part of the Southern Professional Hockey League and play at the Civic Center downtown.

Bradley University sports are also popular in Peoria. Bradley’s men’s basketball team has made several NCAA tournament appearances over the years.

The Peoria Rugby Club, the oldest rugby club in America, was founded in Peoria in 1960 and still has an active membership today.

City Government and Civic Organizations

Peoria employs a Council-Manager system of government. The City Council consists of ten members elected from geographic districts, as well as five at-large members elected citywide. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to handle day-to-day administration.

Some prominent civic organizations and institutions in Peoria include:

  • Peoria Public Library – the library system has 9 branches across the city
  • Peoria Park District – oversees public parks, recreation, museums, and interpretive centers
  • Peoria Civic Center – convention center and performance venue downtown
  • Peoria Innovation Alliance – supports entrepreneurship and small business growth
  • Heart of Illinois United Way – local chapter of United Way nonprofit
  • Peoria Chamber of Commerce – advocates for the local business community
  • Central Illinois African American History Museum – preserves local black history and culture

Residents of Peoria take great pride in their community and support many civic causes and organizations.

Living in Peoria

Peoria provides an affordable cost of living compared to state and national averages. The median home price is around $115,000 and rents average $750-$900 per month. Residents enjoy reasonable commute times, outdoor recreation, arts and culture, shopping and dining options.

While Peoria faces some economic challenges, initiatives are underway to promote growth in technology, manufacturing and healthcare. The city touts a revitalized warehouse district, family-friendly amenities, and a close-knit Midwestern community.