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What BestPlaces Users Say about Peoria
Peoria, Illinois is a mid-sized city located in the heart of the Midwest. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and flourishing economy. With a population of approximately 112,000 people, Peoria offers a suburban feel with urban amenities. It is also home to several universities and colleges, making it a popular destination for young professionals and students. In this particular place, many people have shared their experiences of living in Peoria on the website BestPlaces.net. Here are some excerpts from four different user reviews, giving a glimpse of what it's like to live in Peoria.
According to "Samantha M," Peoria is a great place to raise a family. She writes, "I have lived in Peoria for 10 years now and I couldn't imagine raising my kids anywhere else. The schools are excellent and there are plenty of family-friendly activities to do." Similarly, "Andrew C" also praises Peoria for its family-friendly atmosphere. He says, "Peoria is a tight-knit community where everyone knows each other. It's a great place to raise children and make lasting connections."
On the other hand, "Jessica K" has a different perspective on living in Peoria. She says, "I moved here for work but I've been struggling to find a sense of community. It's a nice city, but it lacks a vibrant social scene." This sentiment is echoed by "Mike R," who adds, "Peoria is a decent place to live, but it can get a bit boring. There aren't many exciting things to do here, especially for young adults."
Despite the differing opinions, one thing is clear - Peoria offers a high quality of life. As "Emily L" puts it, "I've lived in several cities before settling in Peoria, and I can confidently say that this is the best place I've lived. The cost of living is reasonable, the people are friendly, and there are plenty of job opportunities." With its affordable cost of living, friendly community, and growing economy, it's no wonder that many people choose to call Peoria their home.
based on 20 ReviewsGet to know Peoria with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Peoria
Engineering City - 2/11/2008
Good midwestern city with formitable downtown and layout. Plenty to do including minor league sports, arts, and other
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Peoria - Pros/Cons - 2/10/2008
Pros:
1. Low cost of living and housing
2. Affordable place to live
3. Diverse economy
4. Good school system
5. Home to Bradley University and Caterpillar Corporation
Cons:
1. High crime rate
2. Not much to do
3. I think there have been some lay-offs at
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Never going to leave - 2/9/2008
Peoria is a great place to grow up, stay, and make a family of your own. There are plenty of things to do both indoors and out, but with an intimate feel. If you feel like being a big city Chicago or St. Louis are only a quick 2 hour ride
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The Caterpillar mining town - 5/27/2007
Well for some, Peoria is a great large town (It is not quite a city) to live in. I have lived here off and on for 18 years and I have seen it decline rapidly. The town is getting more slum-like as time goes on. Now it looks like the South Side has expanded all the way out to the Northwoods Mall area. Businesses are closing and nothing is coming in to replace them. Nothing says decline of civilization like vacant boarded up buildings. Also the only real employment in this area is Caterpillar. If you work in any of the plants (or if you plan to) expect 10-12 hour days 6-7 days a week. Caterpillar knows it is the only job in town so it tends to exploit their employees. There is no real art and culture here. Sure there is a big new art museum coming, but guess who is sponsoring it... Yep! Caterpillar. Nothing says fine art than tractors and truck engines!!! Really the only thing to do around here is stay boozed up. The 4 o' clock bars are great and really fun IF YOU ARE 21... After 25,
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Not Chicago - 3/8/2007
Basic small town. Nothing special. In Illinois, there's Chicago and the
rest. Peoria is part of the
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Info - 7/3/2006
Looking at relocation to this area.
Could somebody take the time to tell me about this
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Suprisingly good mountain biking - 6/10/2006
For a city that 800 miles from the nearest mountain, Peoria has a surprising amount of quality single-track mountain bike trails. No drastic elevation changes for long downhills or plank bridges through tree canopies but all around enjoyable and challenging
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It plays in Peoria - 12/7/2005
Good lifestyle with excellent medical facilities. Easy commute around town. Property taxes have actually been lowered over the past five years. In center of city access to five major shopping centers within ten minutes. City is turning around the schools. Good colleges and junior colleges in town and within 50 miles (Bradley U, Illinois State, Illinois Central Community College, Eureka College, Western Illinois University). Downtown revitalization campaign with new Caterpillar museum being built and RecPlex facility. Most decent housing will cost at least $160K, but market runs from $60K to $4M. Three hour drive from big cities of Chicago and Saint Louis. Has minor league baseball, hockey, arena football teams. Above average public and private golf courses. Very active neighborhood associations. Slower pace than big cities and farmland properties just outside of city limits. Has good cultural and arts available with Symphony orchestra, ballet company, Civic center for rock bands, etc,
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Peoria is GREAT! - 11/4/2005
We just moved to Peoria from Minnesota. The people here are very friendly, the town is easy to navigate, there are alot of great restaurants to eat at, the housing is cheap and there is adequate shopping with the new mall in town and a great 18 plex movie theatre. I think the countryside is pretty around the river and it's neat to live in a new house and see cow farms out your back window, kind of like having city amenities with country views!
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Not much to do - 8/14/2005
Peoria has been looking better these last few years with the riverfront development, new shopping mall and new housing on the north end of town.
However, as far as jobs, the only way you'll make good money in this town is to be hired on by Caterpillar or one of the hospitals in the medical profession.
The Illinois river runs through downtown - too bad it's been so polluted for years that most people fear even swimming in it and forget about fishing.
Most employment in Peoria will be lower paying jobs in the retail/food service industry.
Peoria has several festivals during the year at the riverfront which usually draw a small crowd. Haven't seen many really good ones however.
Land around this part of illinois is pretty flat and lacking scenery.
Very little fishing around Peoria except in some power plant lakes that are stocked - not fun in my opinion. Takes away from the whole 'getting in touch with nature' thing.
Good hiking and bike trails at
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