Bellwood, IL
Population 18,373 · Illinois
About Bellwood, IL
Bellwood is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 18,373 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,990 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bellwood features a median home value of $219,600, which is 10% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Bellwood in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,221, 5% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,475 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (4,862 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (1,241 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bellwood 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 11.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Bellwood have an average one-way commute time of 28.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.7% of Bellwood 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 18.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 3.8% Black or African American, and 1.5% Asian residents, with 10.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bellwood, IL
Compared to national averages, Bellwood has a median household income of $76,990 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $219,600, which is 10% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,221 is 5% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Bellwood's income is 3% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 32% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Bellwood, IL?
Bellwood offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,990, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $219,600, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 11.4%, better than the national average.
Bellwood has a population of 18,373 with a median age of 38.3 years. Compare Bellwood with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Bellwood
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Aurora | 18,375 | $111,781 | $323,900 | Compare |
| East St. Louis | 18,278 | $30,992 | $52,700 | Compare |
| Sycamore | 18,243 | $80,837 | $254,200 | Compare |
| Franklin Park | 18,233 | $76,009 | $261,700 | Compare |
| Shorewood | 18,218 | $122,648 | $324,600 | Compare |
| Bensenville | 18,576 | $78,298 | $259,300 | Compare |
| Round Lake | 18,588 | $108,965 | $257,400 | Compare |
| Palos Hills | 18,139 | $83,969 | $259,200 | 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 Bellwood With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bellwood
What is the population of Bellwood, IL?
The population of Bellwood, IL is 18,373 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Bellwood?
The median household income in Bellwood, IL is $76,990 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bellwood?
The median home value in Bellwood, IL is $219,600, which is 10% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bellwood?
The median monthly rent in Bellwood, IL is $1,221, which is 5% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bellwood?
The unemployment rate in Bellwood, 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 Bellwood, IL a good place to live?
Bellwood offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 18,373 and a median age of 38.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Bellwood, IL?
15.7% of residents in Bellwood 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 Bellwood?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bellwood, IL: median home value is $219,600 (10% below national), median rent is $1,221/month, and median household income is $76,990. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bellwood?
The poverty rate in Bellwood, IL is 11.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Bellwood, IL?
Bellwood's population is 18.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 3.8% Black or African American, 1.5% Asian, and 69.9% two or more races. 10.2% of residents are foreign-born.