Atlanta, Illinois Population, Hospitals, Airports, and Schools

The current estimated population of Atlanta, Illinois, is 1,600, with a fairly even gender split of 49% male and 51% female. The population has remained stable in recent years, though the town has experienced some growth due to its location along major highways that attract travelers and commuters.

City Facts

  • Year Founded: 1853
  • County Affiliation: Logan County
  • Land Area: 1.25 square miles
  • Population Density: 1,280 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 217
  • Zip Codes: 61723

Geography and Location

Atlanta, Illinois, is a small town located in Logan County, in the central part of the state. The town sits along the historic Route 66, which is a major point of pride for the local community and draws tourism from those interested in this famous highway. Atlanta is positioned approximately halfway between Chicago and St. Louis, making it a convenient stop for travelers. Interstate 55 also passes nearby, providing additional transportation access.

The town’s geography is typical of the central Illinois landscape, which is primarily flat with expansive fields of corn and soybeans stretching across the horizon. This agricultural backdrop defines much of the economy and lifestyle of the town’s residents. The surrounding area is part of the Illinois Prairie, known for its fertile soil and suitability for farming.

Atlanta’s climate is continental, with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The small town atmosphere, combined with its rich historical connection to Route 66, makes Atlanta a quaint and appealing place for both residents and visitors. The town’s local landmarks, such as vintage gas stations and diners, contribute to its charm as a classic Midwestern stopover.

Demographics

Median resident age: 38.1 years
Median household income: $43,194
Median house value: $79,300

Population by Race

Races in Atlanta:

  • White Non-Hispanic (99.3%)

Ancestries: German (28.7%), Irish (12.4%), United States (12.2%), English (11.2%), French (2.7%), Scotch-Irish (2.7%).

Elevation: 720 feet

Land area: 1.3 square miles

Map of Atlanta, IL

Population by Education

For population 25 years and over in Atlanta

  • High school or higher: 84.5%
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher: 14.4%
  • Graduate or professional degree: 4.3%
  • Unemployed: 3.4%
  • Mean travel time to work: 26.4 minutes

For population 15 years and over in Atlanta city

  • Never married: 20.5%
  • Now married: 61.1%
  • Separated: 1.0%
  • Widowed: 7.6%
  • Divorced: 9.9%

0.1% Foreign born

Population change in the 1990s: +26 (+1.6%).

Hospitals

Hospitals/medical centers near Atlanta:

Airports

Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to Atlanta:

  • CENTRAL IL REGL ARPT AT BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL (about 27 miles; BLOOMINGTON/NORMAL, IL; Abbreviation: BMI)
  • DECATUR (about 40 miles; DECATUR, IL; Abbreviation: DEC)
  • GREATER PEORIA REGIONAL (about 41 miles; PEORIA, IL; Abbreviation: PIA)

Other public-use airports nearest to Atlanta:

  • LOGAN COUNTY (about 11 miles; LINCOLN, IL; Abbreviation: AAA)
  • PEKIN MUNI (about 34 miles; PEKIN, IL; Abbreviation: C15)
  • MANITO MITCHELL (about 40 miles; MANITO, IL; Abbreviation: C45)

Amtrak station near Atlanta:

  • 12 miles: LINCOLN (BROADWAY AT CHICAGO ST.). Services: free short-term parking, free long-term parking.

Colleges and Universities

Colleges/universities with over 2000 students nearest to Atlanta:

  • ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY (about 24 miles; NORMAL, IL; Full-time enrollment: 18,785)
  • HEARTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE (about 25 miles; Normal, IL; Full-time enrollment: 2,390)
  • ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY (about 32 miles; BLOOMINGTON, IL; Full-time enrollment: 2,019)
  • MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY (about 34 miles; DECATUR, IL; Full-time enrollment: 2,274)
  • BRADLEY UNIVERSITY (about 40 miles; PEORIA, IL; Full-time enrollment: 5,262)
  • LINCOLN LAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE (about 44 miles; SPRINGFIELD, IL; Full-time enrollment: 3,756)
  • UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT SPRINGFIELD (about 44 miles; Springfield, IL; Full-time enrollment: 2,357)

Public primary/middle school in Atlanta:

  • ATLANTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (Students: 204; Location: 103 NE 5TH ST; Grades: PK – 06)

Libraries

Library in Atlanta:

  • ATLANTA P.L.D. (Operating income: $47,406; Location: 100 SE RACE; 13,314 books; 82 audio materials; 148 video materials; 6 serial subscriptions)