Is Normal, IL Safe to Buy? Home Safety Score 50/100
Score 50/100 · Risk: moderate-high · Water Grade D · Updated 2026-05-03
Normal has moderate-to-high risk. Several risk factors require careful evaluation.
Data: EPA SDWIS, FEMA NFIP, Census ACS, EPA Radon Zones Last verified: 2026-05-03
The upgrade investment in Normal is real and deserves a line in the financial plan — but the cost burden here is calibrated to what the local property market can reasonably support.
What is a home safety score?
The home safety score (0-100) combines multiple environmental risk factors into a single number: water quality grade, lead contamination levels, flood zone exposure, radon risk, and air quality. A higher score means lower overall risk. The score helps homebuyers compare neighborhoods at a glance. Normal scores 50/100 with a "moderate-high" risk level.
What is the equity trap ratio?
The equity trap ratio measures estimated remediation costs as a percentage of median home value. A high ratio (above 5%) means fixing environmental issues could consume a significant portion of your home equity — a potential "trap" for buyers unaware of hidden costs. Normal's equity trap ratio is 1.6%.
Remediation Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Normal:
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages. Actual costs vary by property. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Per-ZIP Home Safety Scores
Safety scores vary across Normal's 2 ZIP codes.
| ZIP Code | Score | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61790 | 48 | D | View report → |
| 61761 | 51 | D | View report → |
Home Safety Overview
Normal, Illinois has moderate-to-high risk for homebuyers. The average home safety score is 50/100 across 2 ZIP codes. Several risk factors require careful evaluation during due diligence.
Safety Score Card
A composite view of Normal's key risk indicators:
| Risk Factor | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Water Quality | Grade D (50/100) | Elevated risk |
| Lead Risk | 0.0090 mg/L | Low risk |
| Flood Risk | 50% in flood zones | Elevated risk |
| Radon | Zone 1 (High) | Elevated risk |
| Air Quality | AQI 68 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
Cost to Fix: Remediation Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Normal:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Radon | $1K |
| Filtration | $300 |
| Flood Insurance | $600 |
| Pfas | $250 |
| Total (low estimate) | $2K |
| Total (mid estimate) | $2K |
| Total (high estimate) | $3K |
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages and local data. Actual costs vary by property condition, contractor, and scope of work. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Normal vs. Nearby Illinois Cities
How Normal's overall risk compares to similar cities in Illinois:
| City | Water Grade | Lead ZIPs Over Limit | Flood Claims | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | D | 0 | 33 | 59,831 |
| Des Plaines | B | 0 | 1,817 | 60,676 |
| Homer Glen | C | 0 | 31 | 58,862 |
| Orland Park | B | 0 | 77 | 58,862 |
Homebuyer Safety Checklist for Normal
Before purchasing a home in Normal, Illinois, complete these checks:
Water Quality
- Request the latest Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from the water utility
- Test tap water for lead, bacteria, and nitrates ($20-$50 for DIY kit)
Radon
- Conduct a radon test ($15-$30 for short-term kit, $150-$300 for professional)
- Normal is in Radon Zone 1 (High risk) — testing is strongly recommended
Flood Risk
- Check the property's FEMA flood zone at msc.fema.gov
- Ask about flood history and past insurance claims
- 50% of Normal is in flood zones — verify insurance requirements
Lead Paint & Pipes
- For homes built before 1978: request lead paint disclosure
- For homes built before 1986: inspect plumbing for lead solder and pipes
- 48% of Normal homes built before 1986 — pipe inspection recommended
General
- Check for carbon monoxide detectors on every level
- Inspect for visible mold, water stains, or musty odors
- Verify the home's connection to a regulated public water system
Data Sources
- Water quality: EPA SDWIS
- Lead: EPA Lead and Copper Rule
- Flood: FEMA NFIP
- Radon: EPA Radon Zones
- Air quality: EPA AirNow
- Home values: U.S. Census Bureau ACS B25077
- Remediation costs: National cost model (EPA, Census, FEMA data)
Updated daily.
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