Ashley, IL
Population 428 · Illinois
About Ashley, IL
Ashley is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 428 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,031 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ashley features a median home value of $70,700, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ashley one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $660, 43% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 215 total housing units, 74% are owner-occupied (112 units) and 26% are renter-occupied (40 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ashley shows an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 35.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ashley have an average one-way commute time of 26.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
2.7% of Ashley residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.1% White, 5.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.4% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ashley, IL
Compared to national averages, Ashley has a median household income of $47,031 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $70,700, which is 71% below the national median. Monthly rent at $660 is 43% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Ashley's income is 37% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 57% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Ashley, IL?
Ashley offers affordable housing with a median home value of $70,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $660/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,031) that falls below the national average. However, Ashley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ashley has a population of 428 with a median age of 31.5 years. Compare Ashley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Ashley
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custer Park | 426 | $173,274 | $218,800 | Compare |
| Andover | 425 | $68,281 | $139,600 | Compare |
| Davis | 425 | $64,107 | $150,000 | Compare |
| Varna | 425 | $61,250 | $89,000 | Compare |
| Prairie du Rocher | 432 | $60,313 | $85,400 | Compare |
| Lakewood Shores | 433 | $76,500 | $181,300 | Compare |
| Liberty | 423 | $85,417 | $124,000 | Compare |
| Boody | 420 | $60,859 | $112,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Ashley With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ashley
What is the population of Ashley, IL?
The population of Ashley, IL is 428 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Ashley?
The median household income in Ashley, IL is $47,031 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ashley?
The median home value in Ashley, IL is $70,700, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ashley?
The median monthly rent in Ashley, IL is $660, which is 43% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ashley?
The unemployment rate in Ashley, IL is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ashley, IL a good place to live?
Ashley offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 428 and a median age of 31.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Ashley, IL?
2.7% of residents in Ashley aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Ashley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ashley, IL: median home value is $70,700 (71% below national), median rent is $660/month, and median household income is $47,031. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ashley?
The poverty rate in Ashley, IL is 35.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Ashley, IL?
Ashley's population is 2.1% White, 5.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.