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Sterling, IL

Illinois · Whiteside County

Sterling is a small city in Illinois with a population of 14,670. Residents earn $52,647 per year, which is 30% below the national average.

3.0 /5.0
B Good
14,670 Population 2,466/sq mi density
$52,647 Median Income $35,146 per capita
$107,800 Home Value $139,801 Zillow
$780 Median Rent 29.4% income on rent
49°F Avg Temperature 275 sunny days/yr
179 Violent Crime/100K 3,384 property/100K
B
Overall
3.0 / 5.0
Good overall score based on economy, affordability, safety and education
B+
Economy
3.7 / 5.0
$52,647 median income, 3.0% unemployment
A+
Affordability
5.0 / 5.0
$107,800 home value, $780/mo rent
F
Safety
1.0 / 5.0
179 violent crimes/100K (53% below avg)
C
Education
2.5 / 5.0
18.5% bachelor's degree or higher

Discover Sterling, IL

Explore over 40 sections covering people, economy, housing, health, crime, climate, community, costs, trends, schools, colleges, hospitals, treatment centers, industries, museums, libraries, breweries, farmers markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, campgrounds, parks, trails, stadiums, ski resorts, daycare centers, nursing homes, churches, fire stations, cell towers, bridges, power plants, EV stations, prisons, radio stations, airports, police stations, post offices, Amtrak stations, superfund sites, UNESCO sites, and more.
Use the tabs and dropdown menus below to navigate every data point we track for this city.

Full City Profile
Median Income $52,647
30% lower than US avg
Home Value $107,800
62% lower than US avg
Violent Crime 179/100K
53% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+ 18.5%
45% lower than US avg
Median Rent $780
33% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate 38.0%
18% higher than US avg
Unemployment 3.0%
17% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate 9.0%
27% lower than US avg

How Sterling Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Population14,670
Median Age42.6 yrs
Density2,466/mi²
Male / Female51% / 49%
Largest GroupWhite 79%
Veterans8.9%

Economy

B+
Median Income$52,647
Per Capita$35,146
Unemployment3.0%
Poverty9.0%
County GDP$2,978M
Commute18 min

Housing

A+
Home Value$107,800
Rent$780
Ownership61.8%
Zillow$139,801
Housing Units7,350
Rent Burden29.4%

Crime

F
Violent179/100K
Property3,384/100K
Murder6.9/100K
Assault62/100K
Burglary310/100K

Health

Obesity38.0%
Uninsured12.8%
Smoking15.6%
Depression22.4%
Heart Disease5.7%

Climate

Avg Temp49°F (10°C)
AQI43 (Good)
Rain40.5 in/yr
Sunny Days275/yr
Elevation677 ft (206 m)

Education

C
Bachelor's+18.5%
High School+90.5%
Graduate+7.2%
School Score5.59

Community

2024 VoteR 56% / D 42%
Commute18 min
Broadband82.3%
EV Stations1
Libraries6

Is Sterling a Good Place to Live?

Based on current data, Sterling receives an overall livability score of 3.0 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B. Key strengths include low unemployment, low crime rates, affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include a high uninsured rate, below-average incomes. Sterling offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.

Economy & Jobs

The median household income in Sterling is $52,647, 30% below the national average of $75,149. Unemployment stands at 3.0%, indicating a healthy job market. 9.0% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 18 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.

Cost of Living & Housing

The median home value in Sterling is $107,800, 62% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $780 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 2x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.

Safety & Crime

Violent crime in Sterling is below the national average at 179 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,384 per 100,000, 73% above the national average.

Education

18.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 90.5% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.6/10.

Climate & Weather

Sterling experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 49°F. Winters average 21°F in January while summers reach 74°F in July. With 275 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 40.5 inches, including 31.2 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43.

Sterling has a population of 14,670 with a density of 2,466 people per square mile, spread across 5.9 square miles. The median age is 42.6 years, 10% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 48.7% female and 51.3% male. The city is predominantly White (79.4%), with 2.8% Hispanic, 1.7% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 86.8% of residents, while 13.2% speak Spanish. 8.9% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 17.5% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 93.9% have health insurance coverage.

Population

14,670
Total Population
2,466
People / sq mi
42.6yrs
Median Age
10% above US avg
5.9mi²
Land Area

Gender Distribution

Male 51.3%
Female 48.7%

Race & Ethnicity

Sterling vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

English Only 86.8%
11% above US avg
Spanish 13.2%
1% below US avg

Social Characteristics

Sterling vs U.S. Average

The median household income in Sterling is $52,647, which is 30% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $35,146. The average weekly wage is $1,042, 27% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 3.0% (below the 3.6% US average). 9.0% of residents live below the poverty line, lower than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 1,185 business establishments, including 132 restaurants. The cost of living index is 100, roughly in line with the national average. Workers commute an average of 18 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 3.3% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).

Income: Sterling vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Median HH Income$52,647
30% below US avg
Per Capita Income$35,146
Avg Weekly Wage$1,042
IRS Avg AGI$64,591
Gini Index0.444 (0=equal, 1=unequal)

Employment & Poverty

Unemployment3.0%
17% below US avg
Poverty Rate9.0%
27% below US avg
Establishments (County)1,185
County GDP$2,978M

Business (County)

Restaurants132
Healthcare107
Retail167
Manufacturing77

Tax & Cost of Living

Property Tax (IRS)$4,810
37% above US avg
Cost of Living100.00 (100=avg)
Effective Tax Rate4.46%

Commute & Transportation

Commute Time17.5 min
Drive Alone75.0%
Public Transit0.4%
Work from Home3.3%

Walkability

The median home value in Sterling is $107,800, 62% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $139,801, higher than the Census estimate. Homes sell for 92.9% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $780 (33% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $854 for a one-bedroom to $1,063 for a two-bedroom apartment. 61.8% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 7,350 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1958. The average annual property tax is $4,810 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 29.4% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2x, well within the affordable range.

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Census Median$107,800
62% below US avg
Zillow ZHVI$139,801
Median List Price$124,900

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Median List Price$124,900
$/Sq Ft$94
Homes Sold15
Sale-to-List Ratio92.9%
Price Drops22.2%
Inventory27

Rental Costs

Census Median Rent$780
33% below US avg
Rent Burden29.4%

HUD Fair Market Rent

Studio$774
1 Bedroom$854
2 Bedrooms$1,063
3 Bedrooms$1,370
4 Bedrooms$1,561

Ownership & Property

Homeownership61.8%
Owner-Occupied61.8%
Renter-Occupied38.2%
Housing Units7,350
Median Year Built1958

Property Tax

Avg Tax (IRS)$4,810
37% above US avg
Effective Rate4.46%
In Sterling, 38.0% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 11.4% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 5.7% of residents. 31.7% have high blood pressure. 15.6% are current smokers. 19.2% report binge drinking. 26.4% are physically inactive. 22.4% report depression. 18.5% experience frequent mental distress. 12.8% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,975. The dentist ratio is 1:2,376. 74.2% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 8.1 out of 10.

Air Quality (Open-Meteo CAMS — 2026-05-24)

PM2.5
7.3
μg/m³
Fine particulate
PM10
7.9
μg/m³
Coarse particulate
NO₂
2.9
μg/m³
Nitrogen dioxide
O₃
87.0
μg/m³
Ozone
SO₂
0.6
μg/m³
Sulphur dioxide
CO
157.0
μg/m³
Carbon monoxide

Health Metrics: Sterling vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Obesity38.0%
18% above US avg
Diabetes11.4%
Heart Disease5.7%
High Blood Pressure31.7%
Asthma10.4%
COPD6.8%
Cancer6.8%
Stroke3.1%

Behaviors & Mental Health

Smoking15.6%
11% above US avg
Binge Drinking19.2%
Physical Inactivity26.4%
Depression22.4%
Mental Distress18.5%
Physical Distress13.9%
Short Sleep37.1%

Healthcare Access

Insurance Rate93.9%
Uninsured12.8%
49% above US avg
Primary Care1:1,975
Dentists1:2,376
Mental Health1:649
Checkup Rate75.1%
Dental Visits58.5%
Premature Death9,513/100K

Food & Exercise

Food Environment8.1/10
Exercise Access74.2%
Healthcare Facilities107
Sterling has a violent crime rate of 179 per 100,000 residents, 53% below the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 62.0 per 100,000, robbery at 20.7, rape at 89.6. The murder rate is 6.9 per 100,000 (above the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 3,384 per 100,000, 73% above the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 2,867, burglary at 310, vehicle theft at 207 per 100,000 residents. The county recorded 13 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Sterling receives a safety grade of F.

Crime Rates: Sterling vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Total Violent179.2/100K
53% below US avg
Murder6.9/100K
9% above US avg
Rape89.6/100K
Robbery20.7/100K
Assault62.0/100K

Property Crime

Total Property3,383.9/100K
73% above US avg
Burglary310.1/100K
Theft2,867.0/100K
Vehicle Theft206.8/100K
Arson20.7/100K

Traffic Safety

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)13
Traffic Accidents16
Avg Accident Severity3.0 / 4.0

Safety Score

Safety GradeF
Safety Score1.0 / 5.0
View full crime details →
Sterling experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 49°F (10°C). Winters average 21°F in January while summers reach 74°F in July. The area gets 275 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 40.5 inches. The area receives 31.2 inches of snow annually, a moderate snowfall amount. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43. The city sits at an elevation of 677 feet.

Temperature

21°F Jan (-6°C) 74°F Jul (23°C)
Annual Average49.4°F
9% below US avg
January Average21°F (-6°C)
July Average74°F (23°C)
Sunny Days275 days/yr

Geography

Elevation677 ft (206 m)
Area5.9 sq mi (15.4 km²)
Population Density2,466/sq mi
Coordinates41.7997°N, 89.6959°W
TimezoneAmerica/Chicago
CountyWhiteside County County
Nearest AirportChicago/Rockford International (RFD)
41 miles away

Precipitation & Snow

Annual Rainfall 40.5"
7% above US avg
Snowfall 31.2"
Wettest Month (Jun) 4.65"
Driest Month (Feb) 1.38"

Air Quality

AQI Median43.0
RatingGood

Natural Hazard Risk

Overall RiskRelatively Low
Risk Score65.8 / 100
Social Vulnerability43.6 / 100
Community Resilience81.7 / 100

Hazard Breakdown

Tornado Relatively Moderate
Hurricane Very Low
Earthquake Relatively Low
Wildfire Very Low
Flood Relatively Low
Hail Relatively Moderate
Strong Wind Relatively High
Heat Wave Relatively Low
Winter Weather Relatively Moderate
Lightning Relatively Low
Ice Storm Relatively Moderate
Drought Relatively Moderate
Cold Wave Relatively Moderate
Landslide Very Low
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)

Earthquake History

7 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990. Strongest: M4.2. Most recent: M2.6 on Mar 15, 2025.

Jun 28, 2004 12 km NW of Dayton, Illinois M4.2 76 km
Feb 10, 2010 2 km NW of Lily Lake, Illinois M3.8 101 km
Sep 2, 1999 8 km W of Amboy, Illinois M3.5 24 km
Jul 15, 2024 2 km WNW of Somonauk, Illinois M3.1 84 km
Mar 25, 2015 3 km WNW of Lake in the Hills, Illinois M2.9 118 km
Jun 10, 2013 4 km NNE of Virgil, Illinois M2.6 101 km
Mar 15, 2025 6 km W of Dwight, Illinois M2.6 127 km
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)

Tornado History

600 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950. Strongest: EF4. Total: 41 fatalities, 709 injuries.

Date Rating Distance Fatalities
Apr 9, 2015 EF4 34 km 2
Mar 29, 1981 EF4 25 km 0
Apr 21, 1967 EF4 79 km 24
Feb 28, 2017 EF3 82 km 2
Jan 7, 2008 EF3 97 km 0
Apr 20, 2004 EF3 70 km 8
May 9, 1995 EF3 56 km 0
Mar 13, 1990 EF3 53 km 0
May 8, 1988 EF3 97 km 0
May 8, 1988 EF3 90 km 0
Aug 5, 1979 EF3 26 km 0
Jun 30, 1977 EF3 63 km 0
Mar 4, 1976 EF3 68 km 0
Jun 20, 1974 EF3 52 km 1
Jun 14, 1974 EF3 94 km 0
May 13, 1974 EF3 78 km 0
Jul 17, 1972 EF3 81 km 0
Apr 16, 1967 EF3 82 km 0
Jan 24, 1967 EF3 39 km 0
Jan 24, 1967 EF3 93 km 0
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)

Wildfire History

1 wildfire (100+ acres) within 100 km. Largest: COLD SPRINGS (552 ac, 2009).

Year Name Acres Distance
2009 COLD SPRINGS 552 97 km
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)

Monthly Weather

Month Avg Temperature Precipitation Summary
January 21°F (-6°C) 1.4 in Coldest
February 25°F (-4°C) 1.4 in Driest
March 37°F (3°C) 2.6 in
April 49°F (9°C) 3.7 in
May 61°F (16°C) 4.5 in
June 70°F (21°C) 4.7 in Wettest
July 74°F (23°C) 3.7 in Warmest
August 71°F (22°C) 4.4 in
September 64°F (18°C) 3.5 in
October 52°F (11°C) 2.8 in
November 38°F (3°C) 2.7 in
December 25°F (-4°C) 2.1 in

Sterling has a seasonal temperature swing of 52°F / from 21°F in January to 74°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 37.3 inches, with June being the wettest month (4.7") and February the driest (1.4").

View full weather details →
Sterling is located in Whiteside County. It is classified as Nonmetro / Urban 20K+, adjacent, a smaller urban community. 18.5% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 45% below the national average of 33.7%. 90.5% have completed high school. 7.2% hold a graduate or professional degree (below the 13.1% national rate). Area schools have an average test score of 5.6 out of 10. In the 2024 presidential election, the county voted Republican with 56.4% of the vote, a 14.7-point margin. 82.3% of households have broadband internet access. The area has 1 EV charging stations. There are 6 public libraries serving the community. 107 healthcare facilities operate in the area. 75% of workers drive alone to work.

2024 Presidential Election (County)

R 56.4%
D 41.7%

Winner: Republican by 14.7 points

Safety & Disasters

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)13
Traffic Accidents16
Avg Accident Severity3.0 / 4.0
F Safety Grade (1.0/5.0)

Education

Bachelor's Degree+18.5%
45% below US avg
High School+90.5%
Graduate Degree+7.2%
School Test Score5.59
C Education Grade (2.5/5.0)

Area & Infrastructure

RUCC Code 4Nonmetro / Urban 20K+, adjacent
Population Density2,466/sq mi
Total Area5.9 sq mi
CountyWhiteside County County

Services

Broadband Access82.3%
Avg Download Speed80.0 Mbps
Avg Upload Speed8.1 Mbps
Max Download Speed1,000 Mbps
EV Charging Stations1
Alt Fuel Stations4
Public Libraries6
Healthcare Facilities107
Restaurants132
Retail Stores167

Commute & Transportation

Avg Commute17.5 min
Drive Alone75.0%
Public Transit0.4%
Work from Home3.3%
Average costs for common services in Sterling. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.

Healthcare

Doctor Visit (Primary Care) $250 ($150–$400)
Specialist Visit $350 ($200–$550)
Urgent Care Visit $200 ($100–$350)
Emergency Room Visit $2,200 ($800–$5,000)
Dental Cleaning $130 ($75–$200)
Dental Filling $250 ($150–$400)
View all 40 services

Auto Repair

Oil Change (Conventional) $45 ($25–$75)
Oil Change (Synthetic) $75 ($50–$120)
Brake Pad Replacement $300 ($150–$500)
Tire Rotation $40 ($20–$75)
New Tires (Set of 4) $600 ($400–$1,000)
Battery Replacement $200 ($100–$350)
View all 18 services

Home Services

Plumber (Per Hour) $100 ($60–$150)
Electrician (Per Hour) $90 ($50–$140)
HVAC Repair $400 ($150–$800)
HVAC System Install $7,000 ($4,000–$12,000)
Roof Repair $1,000 ($400–$2,000)
Roof Replacement $9,000 ($5,500–$15,000)
View all 25 services

Legal

Divorce (Uncontested) $1,500 ($500–$3,500)
Divorce (Contested) $15,000 ($5,000–$30,000)
DUI Defense $5,000 ($2,000–$10,000)
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) $1,500 ($800–$3,000)
Will Preparation $500 ($200–$1,000)
Trust Preparation $2,500 ($1,000–$5,000)
View all 12 services

Personal Care

Men's Haircut $25 ($15–$45)
Women's Haircut $55 ($30–$100)
Hair Coloring (Full) $150 ($75–$250)
Manicure $25 ($15–$45)
Pedicure $40 ($25–$65)
Massage (1 Hour) $80 ($50–$130)
View all 12 services

Food & Grocery

Gallon of Milk (per gallon) $4.10 ($3.00–$5.50)
Dozen Eggs (per dozen) $3.50 ($2.50–$5.00)
Loaf of Bread $3.80 ($2.50–$5.50)
Chicken Breast (per lb) $4.50 ($3.00–$6.50)
Ground Beef (per lb) $5.50 ($4.00–$7.50)
Rice (per lb) $1.00 ($0.60–$1.80)
View all 20 services

Utilities

Electricity (Monthly) $140 ($80–$250)
Natural Gas (Monthly) $70 ($30–$150)
Water/Sewer (Monthly) $70 ($40–$120)
Internet (Monthly) $70 ($40–$100)
Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) $65 ($30–$100)
Cable TV (Monthly) $85 ($50–$150)
View all 8 services

Transportation

Monthly Parking (Downtown) $200 ($75–$500)
Car Insurance (Annual) $2,000 ($1,200–$3,500)
Bus Pass (Monthly) $70 ($30–$130)
Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) $15 ($8.00–$25)
Car Registration (Annual) $100 ($30–$250)
Driver's License Renewal $30 ($15–$75)
View all 8 services

Education & Childcare

Daycare (Infant, Monthly) $1,200 ($600–$2,500)
Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) $1,000 ($500–$2,000)
After-School Care (Monthly) $400 ($200–$700)
Tutoring (Per Hour) $50 ($25–$100)
SAT/ACT Prep Course $1,000 ($400–$2,500)
Private School (K-12, Annual) $12,500 ($5,000–$30,000)
View all 8 services

Pets

Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) $60 ($30–$100)
Dog Vaccination (Annual) $100 ($50–$200)
Dog Grooming $60 ($30–$100)
Pet Boarding (Per Night) $40 ($20–$75)
Dog Spay/Neuter $300 ($150–$500)
Cat Spay/Neuter $200 ($100–$400)
View all 9 services

Childcare

Center-Based (monthly)
Infant$1,023
Toddler$908
Preschool$758
Family Childcare (monthly)
Infant$696
Toddler$726
Preschool$700
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)

Top Industries in Whiteside County

Largest private-sector industries by employment (BLS QCEW 2024 data, county level).

Industry Jobs Establishments Avg Annual Pay Location Quotient
Manufacturing 3,442 80 $69,631 1.98
Retail Trade 2,531 166 $34,326 1.20
Health Care & Social Assistance 2,232 103 $66,986 0.73
Accommodation & Food Services 1,848 132 $18,758 0.96
Transportation & Warehousing 1,442 48 $56,796 1.61
Professional & Technical Services 903 59 $63,376 0.61
Construction 838 106 $73,187 0.75
Wholesale Trade 636 71 $70,511 0.76
Finance & Insurance 577 66 $66,584 0.67
Other Services 448 91 $34,609 0.70
Educational Services 320 12 $31,738 0.73
Arts & Entertainment 219 25 $18,149 0.61
Information & Technology 62 10 $55,622 0.16
Real Estate 62 25 $42,621 0.19
Utilities 42 4 $106,696 0.52
Unclassified 2 1 $58,325 0.07

Colleges & Universities in Sterling

Institution Type Enrollment Acceptance In-State Tuition Out-of-State
Educators of Beauty College of Cosmetology-Sterling Private For-Profit · Certificate 60

Hospitals in Sterling

Hospital Type CMS Rating Emergency Phone
CGH MEDICAL CENTER Acute Care Hospitals 2/5 Yes (815) 625-0400

Schools in Sterling

6 public schools (NCES 2022-23 data).

School Level Enrollment Teachers Student/Teacher
Sterling High School High 1,049 55 19.1:1
Challand Middle School Middle 710 45 15.8:1
Franklin Elem School Elementary 414 27 15.3:1
Jefferson Elem School Elementary 401 28 14.3:1
Lincoln Elem School Elementary 350 22 15.9:1
Washington Elem School Elementary 340 28 12.1:1
View full schools details →

Radio Stations near Sterling

64 stations within ~55 km.

Station Genre Quality
WRUW Cleveland 91.1 FM Case Western U. alternative, college radio AAC+ 42 kbps
Ambient Sleeping Pill | 128 kbps mp3 MP3 128 kbps
24/7 Polka Heaven polka MP3 128 kbps
WTAM 1100 - Cleveland, Ohio local news, local talk AAC
WKSU News Channel (HD4) [aac+] bbc, npr AAC 64 kbps
107.3 Alternative - Cleveland, Ohio alternative rock, rock AAC+ 48 kbps
Yes.fm Worship christian AAC+ 32 kbps
I Hate Free Speech MP3 128 kbps
Outworld Fleet Radio explicit, fandom MP3 128 kbps
101.3 WKRD - Rockford's Best Mix 00s, 70s AAC+ 32 kbps
WLW - 700 AM - Cincinnati, OH news, right winger AAC 22 kbps
Folk Alley Irish Music 128 kbps, irish folk MP3 128 kbps
WSWO-LP 97.3 oldies AAC+ 48 kbps
WINT 1330 & 105.1 - Willoughby, Ohio local talk, news talk MP3 64 kbps
WYSO 91.3 Yellow Springs, OH bbc, npr MP3 128 kbps
Spin Cycle - Mixing and Remixing The Hits 24/7 AAC
WCPN 90.3 "Ideastream" Cleveland, OH cleveland, jazz MP3 128 kbps
WSTB 88.9 The AlterNation, Streetsboro alternative / indie, alternative rock MP3 128 kbps
Yes.fm (Toledo,oh) 89.7 christian, hip-hop AAC+ 32 kbps
Folk Alley 128 kbps, irish folk MP3 128 kbps
WJCU 88.7 John Carroll University - University Heights, OH (AAC) cleveland, university heights AAC+ 128 kbps
The Fan 97.1 WBNS-FM Sports Radio MP3 128 kbps
Apostolic Christian Friendship Radio bible, choir MP3
WCBE 90.5 Columbus, OH npr, public radio MP3 96 kbps
WJCU 88.7 John Carroll University - University Heights, OH (MP3) cleveland, university heights MP3 128 kbps
WNIR 100.1 Kent, OH akron, kent AAC+ 32 kbps
WBBW "Sports Radio 1240" Youngstown, OH cbs sports radio, sport AAC+ 48 kbps
RadioGPT AAC 128 kbps
WAPS 91.3 "The Summit" Akron, OH adult album alternative, akron MP3 96 kbps
WINT 1330 & 101.5 - Willoughby, Ohio local talk, news talk MP3 64 kbps
WPIC "News Talk 790" Sharon, PA news talk, sharon AAC+ 48 kbps
WZNP 89.3 "The River" Newark, OH christian, christian contemporary MP3 128 kbps
WKNR 850 Cleveland espn, sports news MP3 96 kbps
WQGR FM (Gold 93.7) AAC+ 48 kbps
WFGF 92.1 "The Frog" Wapakoneta, OH country, lima MP3
WQQO "Q105.5" Sylvania, OH hot adult contemporary, sylvania AAC+ 48 kbps
WMMX Mix 107.7 adult contemporary AAC 24 kbps
WHOT 101.1 "Hot 101" Youngstown, OH contemporary hits, top 40 AAC+ 48 kbps
WYSU 88.5 All Classical classical MP3 128 kbps
TruBlues975 WDIF-LP blues, community radio AAC+ 96 kbps
WRQN 93.5 Bowling Green, OH bowling green, classic hits AAC+ 48 kbps
WXKR "94.5 XKR" Port Clinton, OH classic rock, port clinton AAC+ 48 kbps
Kickin Country 104.9 AAC+ 32 kbps
WGUC-HD2 Jazz Stream - Cincinatti, OH cincinatti, jazz MP3 128 kbps
WDOH "Fun 107.1" Delphos, OH classic hits, delphos MP3
100.7 WMMS - Cleveland, Ohio alternative rock, hard rock AAC
WGUC Cincinnati Classical Music Radio MP3 320 kbps
Folk Alley Classic 128 kbps, classic folk MP3 128 kbps
WQXK 105.1 "K 105" Salem, OH country, salem AAC+ 48 kbps
WKSU Classical classical music MP3 128 kbps
WKKY 104.7 Geneva, OH ashtabula county, commercial AAC+ 64 kbps
WQQO-HD2 "Talk 100.7 Radio" Sylvania, OH sylvania, talk radio AAC+ 48 kbps
WCLV Cleveland Classical MP3 128 kbps
Folk Alley Classic Folk 128 kbps, classic folk MP3 128 kbps
WGUC "Classical 90.9" Cincinatti, OH cincinatti, classical MP3 320 kbps
WKKO 99.9 "K 100" Toledo, OH country, toledo AAC+ 48 kbps
97.9 WNCI AAC
WMKV 89.3 FM Reading, OH adult standards, big band AAC+ 48 kbps
X Music Online christian, christian hit AAC 32 kbps
Stillwater NOAA Weather radio MP3 32 kbps
WGTE-FM npr, public radio MP3 128 kbps
WPFX 107.7 "The Wolf" Luckey, OH country, luckey AAC+ 64 kbps
WEGE 104.9 "The Eagle" Lima, OH classic rock, lima MP3
97.5 WONE Akron's Home of Rock & Roll classic rock, rock AAC+ 48 kbps

Campgrounds Near Sterling

2 campgrounds found near Sterling.

NameRatingSitesPrice
Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area 4.8/5 1 $14
THOMSON CAUSEWAY 4.6/5 128 $14–$26

National Parks Near Sterling

18 national parks and monuments found near Sterling.

ParkTypeFee
Bellevue State Park State Park Free
Belmont Mound State Park State Park Free
Bishop Hill Park State Park Free
Buffalo Rock State Park State Park Free
Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area State Park Free
Castle Rock State Park State Park Free
Clover Valley State Habitat Area - Pr State Park Free
Fox River State Park Free
Illini State Park State Park Free
Lowden State Park State Park Free
Matthiessen State Park State Park Free
Mound View State Trail State Park Free
New Glarus Woods State Park State Park Free
Pecatonica State Trail State Park Free
Rock Cut State Park State Park Free
Sugar River State Trail State Park Free
Whitewater State Park State Park Free
Yellowstone Lake State Park State Park Free

Museums in Sterling

NameTypeAddressPhoneAnnual Revenue
DILLON HOME MUSEUMGENERAL MUSEUM8156226202$215,890
STERLING PARK DISTRICTGENERAL MUSEUM8156226202$215,890
STERLING-ROCK FALLS HISTORICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION1005 E THIRD STREET8156226215$165,013
NEXT PICTURE SHOWART MUSEUM8152854924$138,931
RONALD REAGAN HOMEHISTORIC PRESERVATION8152885176$89,395
POLO HISTORICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION8159463544$17,861
ART GALLERYART MUSEUM
BUFFALO CREEK VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION5404632330
DIXON HISTORIC CENTERGENERAL MUSEUM205 WEST 5TH STREET8152885508
JOHN DEERE HOME & FARM HERITAGE MUSEUMHISTORY MUSEUM
LEE COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION111 SOUTH HENNEPIN AVENUE8152886702
LEE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION111-113 S HENNEPIN AVE8152886702
LOVELAND COMMUNITY HOUSEHISTORIC PRESERVATION8152842741
PROPHETSTOWN AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION8155372818
TAMPICO HISTORICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION119 MAIN STREET P O BOX 1548154387581
WESTWOOD SPORTS CENTERGENERAL MUSEUM8156226201

Libraries in Sterling

NameAddressStaffAnnual VisitsCirculationCollectionPrograms
STERLING PUBLIC LIBRARY102 WEST THIRD STREET0.0104,694
DIXON PUBLIC LIBRARY221 SOUTH HENNEPIN AVENUE0.063,105
ROCK FALLS PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT1007 SEVENTH AVENUE0.055,812
POLO PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT302 WEST MASON STREET0.014,050
WALNUT PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT101 HEATON STREET0.09,200
HENRY C. ADAMS MEMORIAL LIBRARY209 WEST THIRD STREET0.09,000
OHIO PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT112 NORTH MAIN STREET0.03,500
CHADWICK PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT110 MAIN STREET0.03,196
WYSOX TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY18 WEST FIFTH STREET0.02,802

Farmers Markets in Sterling

NameAddressSeasonHoursOrganicWebsite
Dixon Park District Farmers Market317 W. Third St.May to OctoberWed:7:00 AM - 12:00 PM;Sat:7:00 AM - 12:00 PM;Visit
Rock Falls Farmer marke400 W 2nd Street between 4th & 5 Ave
Twin City Farmers Market106 Avenue A01/04/2014 to 12/01/2014Sat: 8:00 AM-12:00 PM;Visit

Restaurants in Sterling

3 restaurants within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

Al & Leda's Pizza Villa
El Jacalito
Pizza Ranch

Cinemas in Sterling

1 cinemas within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

Sterling Theatre

Theatres in Sterling

1 theatres within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

Grandon Civic Center

Clinics in Sterling

2 clinics within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

CGH Lynn Blvd Medical Center
Sterling Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic

Gas Stations in Sterling

5 gas stations within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

BP
Circle K
Kroger
Shell
Shell

Banks in Sterling

5 banks within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

Midland States Bank
Sauk Valley Bank
Select Employees Credit Union
Sterling Fedearal Bank
Sterling Federal Bank

Nursing Homes in Sterling

3 nursing homes and rehabilitation centers (CMS data).

Facility Ownership Beds Residents Overall Health Staffing Quality Phone
REGENCY CARE OF STERLING
612 WEST ST MARY'S STREET
For profit - Partnership 130 83 5/5 4/5 5/5 8156269020
ROCK RIVER GARDENS
3601 SIXTEENTH AVENUE
For profit - Corporation 70 61 5/5 2/5 5/5 8156260233
STERLING PAVILION
105 EAST 23RD STREET
For profit - Partnership 121 75 1/5 3/5 2/5 8156264264

Pharmacies in Sterling

5 pharmacies and drugstores.

Pharmacy Address Phone
CVS - 8663 2301 NORTH LOCUST STREET 815-626-9031
KMART 2901 EAST LINCOLNWAY 815-626-5862
THE MEDICINE SHOPPE PHARMACY 4 WEST 3RD STREET 815-622-5000
WAL-MART SUPERCENTER - 891 4115 EAST LINCOLNWAY 815-626-7703
WALGREENS - 3559 2506 EAST LINCOLNWAY 815-626-4920

Cell Towers in Sterling

AddressStructure TypeHeight (ft)
1/8 MILES SOUTH OF IL ROUTE 92 1600 EAST (53294)GTOWER106
1/8 MILES SOUTH OF IL ROUTE 92 1600 EAST (53294)GTOWER106
(Rock Falls) 4000 LINCOLN WAYGTOWER91
(Rock Falls) 4000 LINCOLN WAYGTOWER91
(DT Rock Falls site) 121 Wallace StreetTOWER51
(DT Rock Falls site) 121 Wallace StreetTOWER51

Fire Stations in Sterling

NameAddressTypeActive FirefightersVolunteersPhone
Sterling Fire Department110 W 5th STMostly career815-632-6680

Bridges in Sterling

LocationTypeKindYear BuiltLength (ft)Daily TrafficCondition
CulvertConcrete19872611,100G
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel continuous19635217,700G
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel continuous19634687,700G
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel continuous20122223,400F
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel continuous19582302,300F
CulvertConcrete1995471,975F
CulvertConcrete1992301,850F
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel continuous19991371,800F
SlabConcrete1953331,800F
CulvertConcrete1999261,800G
CulvertConcrete1979221,550G
CulvertConcrete198226950F
SlabConcrete continuous1965100900F
CulvertConcrete196522800F
SlabConcrete continuous1967105675F
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel continuous1964100600F
CulvertConcrete continuous195824350F
CulvertConcrete196626350F
CulvertConcrete196234275F
CulvertConcrete196939225F
CulvertConcrete198122150G
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel1961192125F
Channel BeamConcrete199737125F
CulvertSteel198333125F
Box Beam (Multiple)Prestressed concrete19804075F
CulvertConcrete continuous19582850F
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel19664450F
CulvertConcrete20042650G
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel19569450F

Superfund Sites Near Sterling

1 EPA Superfund sites (hazardous waste cleanup locations).

SiteAddressCounty
INVENERGY NELSON LLC1311 NELSON RDLEE COUNTY

Airports Near Sterling

50 airports within the area.

AirportIATAType
Chicago Rockford International AirportRFDMedium Airport
7th Heaven AirportSmall Airport
Albertus AirportFEPSmall Airport
B & C AirportSmall Airport
BAKER'S ACRES AIRSTRIPSmall Airport
Beloit AirportSmall Airport
Black AirportSmall Airport
Blackhawk Farms Inc AirportSmall Airport
Block AirportSmall Airport
Bresson AirportSmall Airport
Bud Pierce Memorial AirportSmall Airport
Cady Aerial Restricted Landing AreaSmall Airport
Carlson Restricted Landing AreaSmall Airport
Chester Wyss AirportSmall Airport
Clinton Municipal AirportCWISmall Airport
Cloverleaf Ranch AirportSmall Airport
Cottonwood AirportSmall Airport
Darrington AirportSmall Airport
Delhotal AirportSmall Airport
Dixon Municipal Charles R. Walgreen FieldSmall Airport
Doering's Port AirportSmall Airport
Dunn AirportSmall Airport
Durin RLA AirportSmall Airport
Earl Barnickel AirportSmall Airport
Earlville AirportSmall Airport
Early-Merkel FieldSmall Airport
Ebert FieldSmall Airport
Edgar Read AirportSmall Airport
Edwin G. Bennett AirportSmall Airport
Ellis AirportSmall Airport
Erie Air ParkSmall Airport
Fisch RLA AirportSmall Airport
Flaherty FieldSmall Airport
Flying Z Ranch AirportSmall Airport
Foley AirportSmall Airport
Foote AirportSmall Airport
Foster FieldSmall Airport
Foxfield AerodromeSmall Airport
Frank's Flying Service AirportSmall Airport
Freeport/Dornink AirportSmall Airport
Gehant AirportSmall Airport
Geldean AirportSmall Airport
Gen-AirparkSmall Airport
Gentry AirportSmall Airport
Gerbick AirportSmall Airport
Giggity Acres AirportSmall Airport
Gittleson Farms AirportSmall Airport
Grandpas' Farm Mendota AirportSmall Airport
Hammer AirportSmall Airport
Harry D Fenton AirportSmall Airport

Police Stations in Sterling

5 police stations.

StationAddressPhone
Dixon Police Department
Illinois State Police Troop 1 - Sterling Post3107 East Lincolnway
Lee County Law Enforcement Center240 East Progress Drive
Polo Police Department
Sterling Police Department

Grocery Stores in Sterling

18 grocery stores.

StoreTypeAddress
ALDI 68011 68011Supermarket3409 E Lincolnway
Circle K 4701436Convenience Store2210 Locust St
County Market 348Super Store210 W 3rd St
CVS 8663Other2301 N Locust
DOLLAR GENERAL 3558Other1106 W 4th St
Dollar General 30796Other2603 Locust St
Dollar General 31260Other2214 E 4th St
Dollar Tree 6883Other301 Avenue G
El Vaquero Western WearGrocery Store1219 W 4th St
Express Lane Gas & Food Mart 18Convenience Store2402 E Lincolnway
Express Lane Gas & Food Mart 6Convenience Store1801 Locust St
KROGER J-953Super Store2301 Locust St
La Laguna Market Inc.Grocery Store301 Avenue G
Sterling Food MartConvenience Store2218 E Lincolnway
Stop & Save IlConvenience Store602 Locust St
The Butcher ShopSpecialty Store3606 E Lincolnway
Twin City Farmers MarketFarmers and Markets106 Avenue A
WALGREENS 3559Other2506 E Lincolnway

Treatment Centers in Sterling

3 treatment centers.

CenterTypePhone
Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital - Behavioral HealthcareMental Health815-288-5531
LSSI - Sterling Counseling CenterSubstance Abuse833-610-5774
Sinnissippi Centers IncBoth815-625-0013

DOL Wage Violations in Sterling

7 employers with DOL wage violations totaling $609,187 in back wages owed to 326 employees.

7
Violations
$609,187
Back Wages Owed
326
Employees Owed
Data from the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division (WHD) enforcement actions since FY 2005.
Employer Severity Parent Company ZIP Industry Cases Back Wages Per Employee Employees
SELF HELP ENTERPRISES MAJOR 61081 1 $573,837 $2,669 215
CGH MEDICAL CENTER 61081 General Medical and Surgical Hospitals 2 $23,951 $1,996 12
ROCK RIVER VALLEY SELF HELP ENTERPRISES, INC 61081 Vocational Rehabilitation Services 1 $8,228 $88 93
Castor Home Nursing 61081 1 $1,659 $1,659 1
Wilvar General Contracting 61081 1 $826 $413 2
Twin City Travel 61081 1 $541 $271 2
Arthur's Garden Deli 61081 1 $145 $145 1

Churches & Religious Organizations in Sterling

25 religious organizations (IRS tax-exempt data).

NameAddress
ABIDING WORD CHURCH INCPO BOX 954
BETHEL REFORMED CHURCH230 E 23RD ST
CHRIST CHURCH STERLINGPO BOX 411
EMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH1904 18TH AVE
FIREHOUSE OF GOD MINISTRIES306 5TH AVE
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH1705 6TH AVE
FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH3400 6TH AVE
FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH OF JORDON20314 HICKORY HILLS RD
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH501 BROADWAY AVE
GRACE BIBLE BAPTIST CHURCH1510 E 25TH ST
IGLESIA PENTECOSTES CRISTO LA ROCA907 W 13TH ST
LIVING WORD CHRISTIAN CENTER OF ILLINOIS INC1013 E 13TH ST
MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH1601 AVENUE F
NEW LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH702 W LYNN BLVD
ONEIGHTY CHURCH12950 LAWRENCE RD
OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH21496 HAZEL RD
SACRED HEART CHURCH2224 AVE J
SAUK VALLEY GROUP CHURCH1308 E 15TH ST
SILVERCITY LIGHTHOUSE1202 DILLON AVE
SIXTEENTH AVENUE CHURCH OF CHRIST1902 16TH AVE
SPRING VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CEMETERY ASSOCIATION212 12TH AVE
ST MARY CHURCH600 AVENUE B
ST PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH1701 16TH AVE
TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH205 E 10TH ST
WESLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH2200 16TH AVE

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Frequently Asked Questions About Sterling

What is the population of Sterling?

Sterling has a population of 14,670 residents and is located in Illinois. The population density is 2,466 people per square mile, spread across 5.9 square miles. The median age of residents is 42.6 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 48.7% female and 51.3% male.

Is Sterling expensive to live in?

Sterling has a cost of living roughly in line with the national average, with an index of 100 (baseline: 100). The median household income is $52,647, 30% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $107,800 (62% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $780 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 2x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.

Is Sterling safe?

Sterling is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 179 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,384 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Sterling receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.

What is the weather like in Sterling?

Sterling has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 49°F (10°C). Winter temperatures average 21°F in January, while summers reach an average of 74°F in July. The area receives 275 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 40.5 inches, with 31.2 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 43.

How is the job market in Sterling?

Sterling has a healthy job market with an unemployment rate of 3.0%, near the national average of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $1,042. There are 1,185 business establishments in the area, including 132 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 18 minutes, and 3.3% of workers work from home.

How much does housing cost in Sterling?

The median home value in Sterling is $107,800. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $139,801. For renters, the median monthly rent is $780. Fair market rent is $854 for a 1-bedroom and $1,063 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 61.8%. The average annual property tax is $4,810.

How are the schools in Sterling?

Schools in Sterling score 5.6 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 18.5% of adults in Sterling hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 90.5% have completed high school. 7.2% hold a graduate or professional degree.

How healthy is Sterling?

The obesity rate in Sterling is 38.0% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 15.6% of adults are smokers. 26.4% are physically inactive. 22.4% of residents report depression. 12.8% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 74.2% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,975.

What is transportation like in Sterling?

The average commute in Sterling is 18 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 75% of workers drive alone to work, and 3.3% work from home.

What are the demographics of Sterling?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sterling is 79.4% White, 1.7% Black or African American, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino. 86.8% of residents speak only English at home, while 13.2% speak Spanish. 8.9% of the population are military veterans. 17.5% of residents have a disability. 93.9% have health insurance coverage.

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