Athens, IL
Population 2,146 · Illinois
About Athens, IL
Athens is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,146 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $85,000 per year, which is 13% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.3 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 Athens features a median home value of $164,200, which is 33% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Athens in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $893, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 959 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (660 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (224 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Athens shows an unemployment rate of 7.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Athens have an average one-way commute time of 24.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.6% of Athens residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 2.5% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.6% Asian residents, with 1.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Athens, IL
Compared to national averages, Athens has a median household income of $85,000 (13% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $164,200, which is 33% below the national median. Monthly rent at $893 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Athens's income is 13% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 1% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Athens, IL?
Athens offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $85,000, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $164,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $893/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 9.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.6 minutes.
Athens has a population of 2,146 with a median age of 33.3 years. Compare Athens with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Athens
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merrionette Park | 2,144 | $53,623 | $152,600 | Compare |
| Elwood | 2,141 | $73,640 | $224,900 | Compare |
| Bellevue | 2,158 | $60,769 | $130,300 | Compare |
| Catlin | 2,161 | $67,344 | $119,600 | Compare |
| Prestbury | 2,174 | $160,370 | $359,700 | Compare |
| Vienna | 2,115 | $39,471 | $77,400 | Compare |
| Pecatonica | 2,178 | $71,500 | $134,900 | Compare |
| South Roxana | 2,180 | $56,364 | $87,200 | 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 Athens With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Athens
What is the population of Athens, IL?
The population of Athens, IL is 2,146 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Athens?
The median household income in Athens, IL is $85,000 per year, which is 13% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Athens?
The median home value in Athens, IL is $164,200, which is 33% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Athens?
The median monthly rent in Athens, IL is $893, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Athens?
The unemployment rate in Athens, IL is 7.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Athens, IL a good place to live?
Athens offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,146 and a median age of 33.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Athens, IL?
25.6% of residents in Athens 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 Athens?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Athens, IL: median home value is $164,200 (33% below national), median rent is $893/month, and median household income is $85,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Athens?
The poverty rate in Athens, IL is 9.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Athens, IL?
Athens's population is 2.5% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, and 2.1% two or more races. 1.4% of residents are foreign-born.