Is Du Quoin Safe, Pros and cons of living in Du Quoin
Du Quoin, Illinois, offers a glimpse into small-town American life, characterized by a strong sense of community and a slower pace. Located in Perry County, this city provides a unique blend of affordability and a close-knit atmosphere, making it an appealing option for those seeking a departure from bustling urban environments. Understanding the various facets of life in Du Quoin, from its safety and cost of living to its job market and educational opportunities, is crucial for anyone considering a move.
The community is home to a population of approximately 5,726 residents, with a median age of around 41 years (according to the U.S. Census Bureau, 2019-2023 ACS 5-year estimates). This demographic makeup suggests a community with a balanced mix of age groups, contributing to its stable, established feel. Du Quoin’s residents are predominantly U.S. citizens, with a vast majority being White (Non-Hispanic), followed by Black or African American and those identifying with two or more races (Data USA, 2024).
Is it Safe to Live in Du Quoin?
Du Quoin presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are significantly lower than both national and state averages. The overall crime rate is 76% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents (AreaVibes). This statistic is bolstered by a violent crime rate that is 66% lower than the national average, and property crimes also fall well below the national figures.
While the northeast part of the city is considered the safest, your chance of being a victim of crime varies by neighborhood. Within the city limits, the likelihood of being a victim of violent crime is approximately 1 in 808, and for property crime, it’s about 1 in 257 (AreaVibes, based on recent crime reports). These figures indicate a relatively low risk for residents, contributing to a sense of security within the community.
Cost of Living in Du Quoin
The cost of living in Du Quoin is notably more affordable than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. The overall cost of living index is 82, compared to the national average of 100 (AreaVibes). This affordability extends across various categories, including housing, groceries, and utilities.
Housing costs in Du Quoin are particularly favorable, being 54% lower than the national average (AreaVibes). The median home value in Du Quoin is approximately $83,100 (Data USA, 2024), and the median rent is around $719 per month (Niche). These figures allow residents to allocate more of their income towards other expenses or savings, enhancing their financial well-being.
Housing Market Trends
Du Quoin’s housing market is characterized by accessible prices and a steady flow of transactions. The median listing price for homes is around $115,000, with homes selling relatively quickly, averaging 67 days on the market (according to Zillow, as of March 31, 2026, and Homes.com data). This indicates a healthy market where buyers can find opportunities, and sellers can expect reasonable market times.
Over the past year, there has been an increase in the number of homes for sale, alongside fluctuations in median sale prices and price per square foot (Homes.com). Despite these market dynamics, the general trend points to Du Quoin remaining an affordable place to purchase property compared to many other areas.
Income and Employment
The average annual household income in Du Quoin was reported as $69,179 in 2024, showing a positive year-over-year change (Point2Homes, U.S. Census Bureau). However, the median household income is $54,409 (Du Quoin Demographics). This income level, combined with the low cost of living, allows for a comfortable lifestyle for many residents.
Employment in Du Quoin is primarily driven by sectors such as Health Care & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Manufacturing (Data USA). The job market is supported by a workforce of approximately 1,858 residents. The unemployment rate in Du Quoin stands at 11.1% (Point2Homes), which is higher than the state average of 5.1% in March 2026 (USAFacts). This suggests a local job market that may require focused searching for employment opportunities.
Climate and Weather
Du Quoin experiences a climate with distinct seasons, offering warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from 23°F to 88°F (myPerfectWeather). The average annual precipitation is around 47 inches, with about 11 inches of snowfall (myPerfectWeather).
Summers in Du Quoin can be hot and muggy, particularly from July to August, with average high temperatures reaching 88°F in July (myPerfectWeather). Winters are cold, with average lows in January around 24°F and highs near 41°F (myPerfectWeather). The city receives its most significant rainfall in May, averaging about 5 inches (myPerfectWeather).
Education in Du Quoin
The Du Quoin Community Unit School District No. 300 serves the city’s students, encompassing Du Quoin Elementary School, Du Quoin Middle School, and Du Quoin High School. The district presents a mixed picture in terms of academic performance (Niche). Du Quoin Middle School is noted as a higher-performing institution, ranking among the top middle schools in Illinois and receiving a 4-star rating (SchoolDigger).
However, Du Quoin Elementary School and Du Quoin High School have shown lower test scores and rankings when compared to district and state averages (SchoolDigger). The district also faces challenges, including a chronic absenteeism rate of 25.4% and a significant percentage of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, which may indicate socioeconomic factors impacting educational outcomes (SchoolDigger).
Demographics of Du Quoin
Du Quoin is home to a population of approximately 5,726 people (Du Quoin Demographics). The racial makeup of the city is predominantly White (Non-Hispanic), accounting for about 86% of the population, followed by Black or African American at around 5.9% (Du Quoin Demographics, U.S. Census Data). A small percentage of residents identify as belonging to two or more races or other racial groups.
The community is largely comprised of U.S. citizens, with a low percentage of foreign-born residents (Data USA). The median age in Du Quoin is 41.1 years, with a slightly higher proportion of males to females (Du Quoin Demographics). A significant portion of residents, 29.6%, live below the poverty line, which is higher than the national average (Data USA).
Major Employers and Job Market
The primary employment sectors in Du Quoin include healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, and manufacturing (Data USA). While the city has a dedicated workforce, the local unemployment rate of 11.1% (Point2Homes) suggests a need for residents to actively seek employment opportunities. Major employers in the region would likely encompass these key industries, providing the bulk of the available jobs.
The average salary for a production worker in Du Quoin is approximately $20.03 per hour (Indeed), while a retail sales associate can expect to earn around $15.19 per hour (Indeed). These figures provide insight into the earning potential within the local job market, which is influenced by the overall economic conditions and industry demands within the region.