Bushnell, IL
Population 2,763 · Illinois
About Bushnell, IL
Bushnell is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,763 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,368 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.5 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 Bushnell features a median home value of $69,100, which is 72% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Bushnell one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $619, 47% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,475 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (798 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (379 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bushnell shows an unemployment rate of 6.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Bushnell have an average one-way commute time of 32.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.0% of Bushnell 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 0.7% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bushnell, IL
Compared to national averages, Bushnell has a median household income of $55,368 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $69,100, which is 72% below the national median. Monthly rent at $619 is 47% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Bushnell's income is 26% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 58% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Bushnell, IL?
Bushnell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $69,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $619/month, and a low poverty rate of 12.1%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,368) that falls below the national average. However, Bushnell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bushnell has a population of 2,763 with a median age of 42.5 years. Compare Bushnell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Bushnell
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McLeansboro | 2,750 | $46,589 | $72,200 | Compare |
| Lena | 2,778 | $76,076 | $154,000 | Compare |
| Hamilton | 2,738 | $53,487 | $105,600 | Compare |
| Madison | 2,788 | $44,181 | $51,200 | Compare |
| Oakbrook Terrace | 2,714 | $70,586 | $315,600 | Compare |
| Heyworth | 2,818 | $90,556 | $196,200 | Compare |
| Pawnee | 2,706 | $77,977 | $151,100 | Compare |
| Venetian Village | 2,704 | $91,786 | $216,900 | 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 Bushnell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bushnell
What is the population of Bushnell, IL?
The population of Bushnell, IL is 2,763 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 Bushnell?
The median household income in Bushnell, IL is $55,368 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bushnell?
The median home value in Bushnell, IL is $69,100, which is 72% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bushnell?
The median monthly rent in Bushnell, IL is $619, which is 47% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bushnell?
The unemployment rate in Bushnell, IL is 6.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bushnell, IL a good place to live?
Bushnell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,763 and a median age of 42.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Bushnell, IL?
13.0% of residents in Bushnell 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 Bushnell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bushnell, IL: median home value is $69,100 (72% below national), median rent is $619/month, and median household income is $55,368. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bushnell?
The poverty rate in Bushnell, IL is 12.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Bushnell, IL?
Bushnell's population is 0.7% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.