As the former "Whiskey Capital of the World" before the Prohibition, Peoria was home to whiskey barons and other wealthy residents who settled down in what are now historic mansions in West Bluff. But along with these estates are more modest homes, making West Bluff a neighborhood that can fit the financial needs of just about any homebuyer. "It's a very eclectic group of people," says Rhonda Milburn, Realtor with Keller Williams Premier Realty, who has serviced West Bluff for more than 20 years. "You have artists, professors, physicians and everything in between. It's a very cohesive neighborhood." Bradley University brings a college-town atmosphere to the local businesses on Main Street, while other areas feel more suburban with nearby shopping centers.
From historic mansions to small bungalows
Mansions in the historic district date back to the mid-1800s, featuring eloquent architectural styles, including Second Empires, English Tudors, colonial-inspired designs and many more that beautify the neighborhood. "They don't build houses like this anymore – the detailing and the woodwork," says Milburn. "Some even have ballrooms on the third floor. A client of mine once said you can live like kings and queens here, and I couldn't agree more." Ranging from around $300,000 to $500,000, many of these stunning estates are surrounded by plentiful mature trees and set far back from their long front yards with circular driveways that add a majestic feeling to each property. Residents can also enjoy a simpler lifestyle in one of the neighborhood's many bungalows or Cape Cods. Some charming English-style cottages can be found scattered around the neighborhood as well. With a few feet between neighbors, these single-family homes sell for around $75,000 to $150,000.
The historic homes down high street vary from large lots to smaller homes.
Four square bungalow style home with brick accents in West Bluff.
Tutor style large homes are popular within the historic district of West Bluff.
Colonial brick homes look so cozy within the neighborhood of West Bluff.
West Bluff has a few smaller sized bungalow style homes outside of the grand historic district.
Grad Tutor revival homes are situated on large acreage within West Bluff.
There are many vintage homes within the neighborhood of West Bluff.
More simple colonial farmhouse homes are found within West Bluff.
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Big retailers and walkable Main Street with local shops
In the northern section of the neighborhood, locals can shop and dine around one big shopping center, which has a Walmart, Hobby Lobby and ALDI. While there are several national chain restaurants, residents can choose from many local establishments for various dining experiences. Connected offers an intimate, Italian-American fine-dining atmosphere. Meanwhile, Childers Eatery is a more casual spot for brunch and Big JJ's Fish & Chicken serves up delicious comfort foods in a small shop. On the south side of West Bluff near Bradley University, Main Street is a pedestrian-friendly area lined with more local shops and restaurants. College students and residents frequent One World, a staple corner restaurant famous for its hummus. Shoppers can also head to small retailers like Primitiques to find cute home décor created by local artisans and Lit. on Fire Books, a quaint bookshop with cozy couches and open mic sessions.
Childer's Eatery is a great place to stop for breakfast or lunch in West Bluff.
Childer's offers vegetarian eggs Benedict and freshly pressed juices in West Bluff.
One World in West Bluff creates craft coffee like peppermint mochas and many seasonal drinks.
Hobby Lobby is another great place to buy home decor in West Bluff.
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Diversity at Peoria Public Schools
Elementary students may attend one of several schools, including Whittier Primary, which receives a C-plus grade from Niche. Harold B. Dawson Junior Middle and Sterling Middle, both of which get a C-minus grade, feed into C-graded Peoria High, ranked the third-most diverse high school in the Peoria area. Students seeking post-secondary education can stay home in West Bluff by attending Bradley University, a private institution with more than 100 undergraduate and 30-plus graduate programs.
Whittier Primary School is located within West Bluff in Peoria.
Harold B. Dawson is located within the West Bluff area district.
Peoria High School has an overall C rating from Niche in West Bluff.
The West Bluff branch library is located near downtown and built with all brick and stone.
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A zoo, amphitheater and more at Glen Oak Park
Those looking for fresh air typically head to Glen Oak Park, a large green space with open grassy fields and tree-lined walkways used for relaxing strolls. The former playground has been demolished, but a new, all-accessible playground is under construction so every child can have a place to play. The park is also home to The Peoria PlayHouse, where children can learn and play in the interactive museum. Kids and adults alike have fun watching the animals at Peoria Zoo, another fun feature of Glen Oak Park. Milburn, who's a board member of the Peoria Zoological Society, says, "It's a very community-involved zoo. We have all sorts of events like Howl-Zoo-Ween during fall for kids and Zootini, a martini-tasting event for adults. The community also gets to name the baby animals after they're born." The fun continues at the park's amphitheater, which hosts annual community events, including the highly anticipated fireworks show every third of July.
Large ants are a fun ride on toy for kids outside of the Peoria Zoo in West Bluff.
The Peoria Playhouse Children's Museum is a fun indoor place for kids to enjoy when its colder.
Outside play area for children at the Peoria Zoo in West Bluff.
Swings are near the Zoo in West Bluff at a park with many other outdoor activities.
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West Bluff has easy access to the interstate 74 and other main roads.
CityLink bus routes to downtown Peoria
CityLink offers public transportation with bus stops along all the main roads. Depending on where locals live, the drive to downtown can be less than a mile or up to four miles. Locals also have easy access to Interstate 74, which leads directly to all the excitement of downtown and the riverfront.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the West Bluff neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
West Bluff
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
West Bluff Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in West Bluff, Peoria sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in West Bluff, Peoria over the last 12 months is $85,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming and spacious 2-bedroom home offering nearly 2,000 sq ft of living space! The classic home blends character with functionality, featuring a large living area, generous room sizes and a flexible layout perfect for everyday living or entertaining. Enjoy the backyard that is partially fenced and could be easily fenced in all the way if you'd like. Close to shopping and local restaurants and
Welcome home to this timeless 1920s brick beauty, where character, space, and location come together effortlessly. Just steps from Bradley University and a short drive to Peoria’s downtown hospitals, this home offers both everyday convenience and classic appeal. Inside, you’ll find hardwood floors, a formal dining room perfect for gathering, and a layout that feels both spacious and welcoming.
Great investment opportunity! This property must be purchased as part of a 3 pack along with 3325 N Leroy Ave, Peoria IL PA1265325 and 2317 W Hudson St, Peoria IL PA1265326. See associated docs for rental information.
Welcome to 301 E Melbourne Ave—this 5-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is a true hidden gem offering character, space, and versatility throughout. Step inside to a bright and inviting living room featuring a cozy wood-burning fireplace, perfect for relaxing evenings. Just off the main hallway, you’ll find a full bath and four of the five bedrooms, each offering convenient built-ins for added storage. One
Spacious and budget-friendly, this 5-bedroom, 2-bath home offers incredible value and room to grow! Featuring a 2-stall detached garage, this property is perfect for those needing extra space both inside and out. Enjoy a versatile layout with a formal dining room ideal for gatherings, plus an eat-in kitchen for everyday convenience. Main floor laundry adds practical functionality to your daily
Centrally located and well-maintained, this charming home offers comfort, efficiency, and valuable updates throughout. Conveniently situated less than 10 minutes from major employers and amenities including OSF HealthCare, Northwoods Mall, and Komatsu, the property provides excellent accessibility while maintaining a cozy residential feel. The home features a Tesla solar panel system, helping
This is the kind of home that reminds you why character matters. Full of charm and historical detail, it blends timeless style with the updates that actually matter for everyday living. Fresh paint and new ceilings on the main level give it a clean, refreshed feel, while the original hardwood floors upstairs have been beautifully brought back to life. The layout is both functional and inviting,
Investor special! This 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers great potential for the right buyer willing to put in some work. Being sold AS IS. This property features a spacious layout and solid bones, making it an excellent opportunity to renovate and build equity. With its generous size and functional floor plan, it has strong potential as a long-term rental. Don’t miss your chance to turn this
Charming bungalow- ready to moved in- all the upgrades are done for you. This home feature Oak hardwood-floor- 2 full bath and 1- 1/2 half bath. large backyard and a front and back porch. beautiful title floor in the kitchen and in the bathroom.
MOVE IN READY! This 3 bedroom (all on main level), 1 bathroom Bungalow style home has a Detached 1 Car Garage and Fenced yard. Upper level could be converted to more living space/extra bedroom. Updates include: Flooring, bathroom remodeled, interior paint, breaker box, and new Refrigerator & Stove all in 2026. Basement has interior access & a walk out cellar door and has potential for a 30x12
Opportunity is knocking at 2416 N Dechman Ave in Peoria! This 4 bedroom home offers solid bones, great space, and the kind of upside that investors and vision-minded buyers are always searching for. Whether you're looking to expand your portfolio or create your own home with a little sweat equity, this property is FULL of potential. The layout features a convenient half bath on the main level and
Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch offering the ease of all main floor living! Step inside to find a functional layout with a cozy eat-in kitchen—perfect for everyday meals or casual gatherings. The spacious living areas provide comfort and flexibility, while the primary bedroom stands out with its own wood-burning fireplace, creating a warm and inviting retreat. Enjoy the
Welcome to The Avenue Apartments! This historic and charming location offers unmatched opportunities for medical students with its proximity to Bradley University and the U of I Medical School. With units starting at just $650 per month, now is the perfect time to schedule your private tour of this amazing apartment complex. Don't wait - come experience the convenience and beauty of The Avenue
This is a beautiful 2 story brick - 2 bedroom/1.5 bath home. 1 bedroom and bathroom are on lower level and upper level offers an oversized bedroom with attached 1/2 private bathroom and large closet. Large living room space with separate dining area. Unfinished basement leads to garage. Garage is not functional from exterior but accessible from basement. Backyard offers a large lot!
Welcome home to Carriage Hills. Offering spacious 1 & 2 bedroom apartments in Peoria, IL . The apartment community features a great location, just minutes away from shopping, restaurants, hospitals and interstate access.
Welcome home to 1815 North Sheridan! This 3 bedroom 1 bathroom home offers over 1000 sq. ft. of living space, basement, and 2 car garage! Centrally located and close to everything including shops, schools, and interstate access. Kitchen comes complete with a brand new fridge and stove. Relax on the enclosed front porch!
1113 W. Moss Avenue large historic house first floor apartment. New carpet throughout just installed March 2026Close to Bradley UniversityLarge two bedroom, one bathroomHeat, Water, and Gas for Stove included in rent.Large living room, Sun porchCoin Laundry in lower levelAppliances provided (refrigerator, stove) Includes a one stall garage. No pets/ Prefer
This thoughtfully renovated one-bedroom community pairs comfort and convenience with top-tier amenities. Residents enjoy a quiet, secure environment featuring key fob access, HD security cameras, and a virtual doorman for seamless guest and delivery access. All utilities, parking, and high-speed internet are included in your rent, with fully furnished options available upon request. The building
Daniel Management GroupDaniel Management Group Inc
Now leasing: this professionally renovated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home on E Thrush Ave in the Thrush Place subdivision of Peoria. We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 204 East Thrush Avenue.With recent updates, this property offers an inviting, up-to-date living space. Key features include whole-home Air Conditioning, a refrigerator, and washer/dryer connections.
FRESHLY RENOVATED Apartment at Bobbit's Vintage Square Building in Peoria's Historic Sheridan Street District - Step into a tastefully updated 650 SF (1) Bedroom apartment where classic hardwood floors meet modern upgrades. The brand-new kitchen and bathroom bring fresh style, while the mini-split system ensures personalized heating and cooling for year-round comfort at your fingertips.Additional
Discover this freshly renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bath home on N Wisconsin Ave in the Edwards Add subdivision of Peoria. We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 2200 North Wisconsin Avenue.This home's recent remodel creates a contemporary and pleasant atmosphere. It's equipped with modern necessities such as whole-home Air Conditioning, a gas range, a refrigerator, and
Check out this 2bd apartment near downtown Peoria! Water and gas included in rent! Close to retail, hospitals, and restaurants! Inquire online about a showing and an application today!
Now leasing: this professionally renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home on N Flora Ave in the Heppel'S subdivision of Peoria. We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 2211 North Flora Avenue.Recently upgraded, this home has a contemporary, inviting atmosphere and comes fully-equipped with all modern amenities including whole-home Air Conditioning, sits on a private lot Stove and
Look inside this fully modernized 2-bedroom, 1-bath home on E Kansas St in the Comstock subdivision of Peoria. We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 1105 East Kansas Street.Step into a refreshed interior with a contemporary vibe. This home comes equipped with modern essentials: whole-home Air Conditioning, sits on a private lot Stove, Oven, and refrigerator.
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