Athens, IL
Population 2,146 · Illinois
About Athens, IL
Athens is a small community in Illinois with a population of 2,146 residents. The median household income is $85,000 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Athens is 33.3 years.
Housing in Athens has a median home value of $164,200 and median monthly rent of $893. Of the 959 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 660 owner-occupied and 224 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Athens is 7.7% and the poverty rate is 9.4%. 25.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 24.6 minutes.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Athens
What is the population of Athens, IL?
The population of Athens, IL is 2,146 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Athens?
The median household income in Athens, IL is $85,000 per year.
What is the median home value in Athens?
The median home value in Athens, IL is $164,200.
What is the average rent in Athens?
The median monthly rent in Athens, IL is $893.
What is the unemployment rate in Athens?
The unemployment rate in Athens, IL is 7.7%.