Sterling, IL Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Sterling, IL: What You Need to Know

Sterling lies along the north bank of the Rock River in northwest Illinois. The city was once known as the Hardware Capital of the World for its manufacturing and steel industries.

Job Opportunities in Sterling, IL

Sterling is located in Whiteside County. Along with Carrol County, they constitute an economic region driven by the health care, manufacturing, and logistics and distribution industries. The largest employers in the region include CGH Medical Center & Health Clinics, Wahl Clipper Corp. (electronics), Walmart Distribution Center, Met Form (transportation equipment), and Timken Drives (transportation equipment).

Local History of Sterling, IL

Present-day Sterling is a result of the merger of the small towns of Harrisburg and Chatham in 1838. The town on the northern bank of the Rock River was founded by Hezekiah Brink, while William Kirkpatrick claimed land adjacent to Brink’s site. The Northwestern Barb Wire Company was Sterling’s largest employer at one point, hence the city’s nickname. It was renamed Northwestern Steel and Wire when the company became a steel mill and wire factory. 

What is There to Do for Fun in Sterling, IL?

The White Pines State Park, 23 miles from Sterling, offers plenty of outdoor recreation. The 385-acre park is located on the banks of Spring and Pine Creeks. It’s a great place for hiking, fishing, camping, and picnicking. Spend a night outdoors at one of the park’s campsites. The Dillon Home Museum, in the heart of Sterling, is a fine example of Italianate architecture. Built in 1858, it was the former home of P.W. Dillon, owner of Northwestern Steel and Wire. The home displays period furniture and many original items.

Is Sterling, IL an Affordable Place?

Overall, yes, it is. Although Sterling’s food cost is 2.4% higher than the national average, the city’s cost of living rate and housing costs are 8% and 26.5% lower than the national average respectively. Sterling’s median gross rent is $675. The Land of Lincoln levies a flat income tax of 4.95% and 6.25% to 11% in sales tax. 

How Big is Sterling, IL?

Sterling has a population of 14,463 and a land area of 5.71 square miles. The Sterling Park District operates 14 parks covering 525 acres of land. The park system includes seven miles of bike paths, two boat ramps, an 18-hole golf course, a 27-hole frisbee golf course, an indoor aquatics center, and a gymnastics center. In addition, the City of Sterling maintains seven neighborhood parks with a total land area of over 15 acres. Don’t confuse the City of Sterling with either Sterling Township or Mount Sterling. The city is located along the Rock River opposite the City of Rock Falls.