Burnham, IL
Population 3,978 · Illinois
About Burnham, IL
Burnham is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 3,978 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,708 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Burnham features a median home value of $146,400, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Burnham one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,183, 2% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,633 total housing units, 60% are owner-occupied (886 units) and 40% are renter-occupied (590 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Burnham shows an unemployment rate of 9.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Burnham have an average one-way commute time of 35.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
11.7% of Burnham 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 26.3% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 7.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Burnham, IL
Compared to national averages, Burnham has a median household income of $55,708 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $146,400, which is 40% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,183 is 2% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Burnham's income is 26% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 12% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Burnham, IL?
Burnham offers affordable housing with a median home value of $146,400, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,708) that falls below the national average. However, Burnham’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Burnham has a population of 3,978 with a median age of 36.5 years. Compare Burnham with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Burnham
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marshall | 3,987 | $70,950 | $118,500 | Compare |
| Riverwoods | 3,988 | $243,036 | $796,100 | Compare |
| Indian Head Park | 3,992 | $107,019 | $337,700 | Compare |
| Millstadt | 4,013 | $94,536 | $205,400 | Compare |
| South Chicago Heights | 3,934 | $56,250 | $136,000 | Compare |
| Barrington Hills | 3,923 | $186,667 | $781,600 | Compare |
| Dupo | 3,914 | $57,899 | $109,000 | Compare |
| Rosewood Heights | 4,047 | $80,753 | $125,900 | 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 Burnham With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Burnham
What is the population of Burnham, IL?
The population of Burnham, IL is 3,978 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 Burnham?
The median household income in Burnham, IL is $55,708 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Burnham?
The median home value in Burnham, IL is $146,400, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Burnham?
The median monthly rent in Burnham, IL is $1,183, which is 2% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Burnham?
The unemployment rate in Burnham, IL is 9.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Burnham, IL a good place to live?
Burnham offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,978 and a median age of 36.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Burnham, IL?
11.7% of residents in Burnham 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 Burnham?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Burnham, IL: median home value is $146,400 (40% below national), median rent is $1,183/month, and median household income is $55,708. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Burnham?
The poverty rate in Burnham, IL is 13.8%, 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 Burnham, IL?
Burnham's population is 26.3% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 60.6% two or more races. 7.8% of residents are foreign-born.