Brussels, IL
Population 136 · Illinois
About Brussels, IL
Brussels is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 136 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,250 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Brussels features a median home value of $126,300, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Brussels one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 69 total housing units, 47% are owner-occupied (21 units) and 53% are renter-occupied (24 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Brussels shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 17.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Brussels have an average one-way commute time of 42.9 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
15.8% of Brussels 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 2.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Brussels, IL
Compared to national averages, Brussels has a median household income of $56,250 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $126,300, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Brussels's income is 25% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 24% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Brussels, IL?
Brussels offers affordable housing with a median home value of $126,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,250) that falls below the national average. However, Brussels’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Brussels has a population of 136 with a median age of 40.8 years. Compare Brussels with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Brussels
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
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 Brussels With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Brussels
What is the population of Brussels, IL?
The population of Brussels, IL is 136 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 Brussels?
The median household income in Brussels, IL is $56,250 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Brussels?
The median home value in Brussels, IL is $126,300, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Brussels?
The median monthly rent in Brussels, IL is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Brussels?
The unemployment rate in Brussels, IL is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Brussels, IL a good place to live?
Brussels offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 136 and a median age of 40.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Brussels, IL?
15.8% of residents in Brussels 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 Brussels?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Brussels, IL: median home value is $126,300 (48% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $56,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Brussels?
The poverty rate in Brussels, IL is 17.6%, 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 Brussels, IL?
Brussels's population is 2.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 21.3% two or more races. 2.9% of residents are foreign-born.