Thinking about a move to Edwardsville or Glen Carbon but not sure how costs and commutes stack up? You are not alone. Relocating across the river comes with questions about housing budgets, drive times, and everyday life. In this guide, you will get a clear, practical comparison of the two towns, what to expect for utilities and taxes, how long homebuying takes, and how to plan your move. Let’s dive in.
Edwardsville vs Glen Carbon overview
Edwardsville and Glen Carbon sit side by side in Madison County within the Metro East. Both offer suburban conveniences with easy access to St. Louis. Edwardsville has a lively downtown, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), and a mix of historic homes and newer subdivisions. Glen Carbon has a historic village core and many planned neighborhoods with trails and quick access to I-270.
If you want more walkable dining and campus energy, Edwardsville may feel like a fit. If you prefer a subdivision lifestyle with neighborhood trails and park access, Glen Carbon may appeal. Many buyers tour homes in both to compare commute routes, lot styles, and HOA expectations.
Housing costs and recurring expenses
Every move involves two cost buckets: the price of the home and the monthly carrying costs. Plan for a side-by-side comparison before you write an offer.
Prices, rents, and inventory
Market conditions shift month to month. Compare current median sale prices and rents for both towns, plus days on market and supply. Use local MLS data or major market trackers and date your snapshot so you can follow trends over the last 1 to 12 months. Expect a mix of older homes near downtown Edwardsville and SIUE, and newer subdivisions across both towns.
Property taxes and HOAs
Illinois property taxes are driven by local levies, including school districts and municipalities. Review the Madison County Assessor or Treasurer pages for effective rates and sample bills on homes that match your price point. Newer subdivisions and townhome communities may include HOA fees. Ask for the most recent HOA budget, rules, and any transfer fees before you submit an offer.
Insurance and utilities
Homeowners insurance can vary by age of home, updates, and proximity to any flood zones. Get quotes early if you are comparing properties. For monthly utilities, plan for these common items:
- Electricity and natural gas: Ameren Illinois serves both towns. Natural gas is common for heating.
- Water and sewer: Confirm rates with the City of Edwardsville or Village of Glen Carbon, since fees can differ by service area.
- Trash and recycling: Expect either municipal service or a contracted hauler, often billed monthly.
- Internet: Spectrum cable is widely available, with AT&T fiber or DSL in select areas. Check address-level availability and speeds.
Tip: Request seller utility averages through your agent or use sample bills from recent listings to set a realistic baseline for a small household versus a larger one.
Commutes to St. Louis
You will cross the Mississippi River for most Missouri-side jobs. Routes often use I-55, I-70, or I-64 and the Poplar Street Bridge or the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge.
Downtown St. Louis
Typical off-peak drives are often in the 25 to 40 minute range from Edwardsville, with Glen Carbon similar or slightly shorter depending on your exact start point. In weekday peak windows, add 15 to 30 minutes or more with incidents or construction.
Clayton and West County
Plan for times comparable to downtown during light traffic, with added variability from I-64 congestion. West County and Chesterfield runs are longer cross-metro trips, so check live routing before setting a daily routine.
Cortex, SLU, and Midtown
Expect similar or slightly longer times than downtown. Your route may shift based on the best bridge and midtown exits on a given day.
Lambert International Airport
Most routes use I-70 connectors. Travel time can swing widely based on time of day and construction, so check live mapping when you leave.
What affects drive times
Time of day, bridge traffic, lane closures, weather, and special events all matter. Keep an eye on construction alerts from state transportation departments, and check real-time apps before you head out.
Transit and car-free options
Most commuters drive. MetroLink light rail does not directly serve Edwardsville or Glen Carbon. Madison County Transit operates local routes and some commuter connections, often to park-and-ride lots or MetroLink stations on the Illinois side. Review current schedules and plan for transfers if you prefer a transit option or carpooling.
Everyday conveniences
Groceries and shopping
You will find grocery stores, pharmacies, and local shops in both towns. Edwardsville’s downtown has dining, coffee, and boutiques, while major retail corridors and big-box stores are a short drive in nearby Metro East hubs like Fairview Heights.
Healthcare access
Primary care, urgent care, and outpatient services are available locally. Larger specialty hospitals span the broader St. Louis area across both states. Confirm proximity to your providers and any specialty departments you need.
Parks, trails, and lifestyle
Both towns offer parks and neighborhood trails, with expanded recreation through Madison County’s trail network. Edwardsville’s events and dining near SIUE add evening and weekend options. Glen Carbon’s historic village area offers a small-town main street feel with quick access to regional trails.
Neighborhood snapshots
Downtown Edwardsville
Older homes and walkable streets near shops and dining. You will see a mix of renovated properties and character homes, plus some infill.
Near SIUE
A range of single-family homes and townhomes with convenient campus access. Expect quick drives to trailheads and everyday shopping.
Newer subdivisions
Across both towns you will find planned neighborhoods with sidewalks, HOA amenities, and a range of lot sizes. These can offer newer systems and energy features along with HOA guidelines.
Glen Carbon village core
A historic center with neighborhood streets and access to trails. Many residents choose it for its community feel and proximity to Edwardsville retail.
Note on schools: Both towns are largely served by Edwardsville Community Unit School District 7, though boundaries can vary by address. Always confirm district and school assignments with official boundary maps and state report cards before you buy.
Remote work readiness
If you work from home, verify internet options at the address level. Spectrum serves many areas with cable internet. AT&T offers fiber or DSL in select pockets. Check advertised speeds, customer equipment needs, and whether fiber is available on your street.
90-day move plan
Days 1–30: Get ready
- Set your budget and talk to a lender for pre-approval.
- Compare Edwardsville and Glen Carbon routes to your workplace at peak and off-peak times.
- Tour neighborhoods on different days and times.
- Review property tax samples, HOA rules, and utility estimates on homes you like.
Days 31–60: Under contract
- Schedule inspections, appraisal, and lender milestones. Typical closings on financed purchases take about 30 to 45 days after acceptance.
- Line up movers or a rental truck and request three quotes.
- Start utility setup: Ameren Illinois for electric and gas, municipal water and sewer, trash service, and internet.
- If applicable, begin school enrollment and gather proof of residency and immunization records.
Days 61–90: Move-in
- Confirm walk-through, closing date, and keys.
- Set up mail forwarding and update licenses and vehicle registration if moving from out of state.
- Review any neighborhood or HOA parking and permit rules before delivery trucks arrive.
Moving cost checklist
Professional movers or rental truck fees, plus packing supplies.
Temporary housing if your closing dates do not align.
Utility deposits and service initiation fees.
Home insurance premium and, if needed, flood insurance.
Parking costs for city commutes and potential toll alternatives outside the core bridges.
Driver’s license and vehicle registration fees if you are new to Illinois.
Ready to compare homes?
You deserve a clear side-by-side of costs, commutes, and neighborhoods before you make a move. If you want a guided tour of Edwardsville and Glen Carbon, help interpreting property taxes and utilities, or a custom commute check, reach out to the Chris & Kait Real Estate Team. We will help you find the right fit and move with confidence.
FAQs
What are typical commute times from Edwardsville and Glen Carbon to downtown St. Louis?
- Off-peak drives are often around 25 to 40 minutes, with peak traffic adding 15 to 30 minutes or more depending on bridge and incident conditions.
Is public transit practical from Edwardsville or Glen Carbon to St. Louis?
- Most people drive. MetroLink does not directly serve these towns. Madison County Transit provides local routes and connections to park-and-ride locations, which may help for some commutes.
How do property taxes compare in Edwardsville and Glen Carbon?
- Tax bills vary by address and local levies. Review Madison County Assessor or Treasurer resources for sample bills and effective rates on homes similar to the one you are considering.
Which town is more affordable, Edwardsville or Glen Carbon?
- It depends on the neighborhood and property type. Compare current median prices and factor in property taxes, HOA fees, insurance, and utility costs for a full picture.
Where can I verify school assignments before buying?
- Check official district boundary maps and Illinois State Board of Education report cards. Confirm school assignments with the district using the property’s exact address.
