Bradford, IL
Population 773 · Illinois
About Bradford, IL
Bradford is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 773 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,386 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.9 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bradford features a median home value of $71,800, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Bradford one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $861, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 351 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (231 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (91 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bradford shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 19.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bradford have an average one-way commute time of 26.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.0% of Bradford 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 1.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bradford, IL
Compared to national averages, Bradford has a median household income of $52,386 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $71,800, which is 71% below the national median. Monthly rent at $861 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Bradford's income is 30% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 57% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Bradford, IL?
Bradford offers affordable housing with a median home value of $71,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $861/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,386) that falls below the national average. However, Bradford’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bradford has a population of 773 with a median age of 43.9 years. Compare Bradford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Bradford
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shannon | 772 | $59,375 | $114,100 | Compare |
| Coulterville | 770 | $57,813 | $76,100 | Compare |
| Oneida | 770 | $66,615 | $107,400 | Compare |
| Kirkwood | 769 | $70,385 | $89,500 | Compare |
| Lake Petersburg | 769 | $124,643 | $336,200 | Compare |
| West Salem | 769 | $50,500 | $65,800 | Compare |
| Bartelso | 768 | $93,929 | $192,000 | Compare |
| Ringwood | 778 | $157,500 | $364,700 | 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 Bradford With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bradford
What is the population of Bradford, IL?
The population of Bradford, IL is 773 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 Bradford?
The median household income in Bradford, IL is $52,386 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bradford?
The median home value in Bradford, IL is $71,800, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bradford?
The median monthly rent in Bradford, IL is $861, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bradford?
The unemployment rate in Bradford, IL is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bradford, IL a good place to live?
Bradford offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 773 and a median age of 43.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Bradford, IL?
17.0% of residents in Bradford 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 Bradford?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bradford, IL: median home value is $71,800 (71% below national), median rent is $861/month, and median household income is $52,386. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bradford?
The poverty rate in Bradford, IL is 19.2%, 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 Bradford, IL?
Bradford's population is 1.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.