Cambridge, IL
Population 2,184 · Illinois
About Cambridge, IL
Cambridge is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,184 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $72,292 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.6 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Cambridge features a median home value of $120,400, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Cambridge one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,039, 11% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 890 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (733 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (96 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cambridge shows an unemployment rate of 5.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 7.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Cambridge have an average one-way commute time of 28.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.3% of Cambridge 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 0.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Cambridge, IL
Compared to national averages, Cambridge has a median household income of $72,292 (4% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $120,400, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,039 is 11% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Cambridge's income is 4% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 27% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Cambridge, IL?
Cambridge offers affordable housing with a median home value of $120,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,039/month, and a low poverty rate of 7.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,292) that falls below the national average. However, Cambridge’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cambridge has a population of 2,184 with a median age of 35.6 years. Compare Cambridge with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Cambridge
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Roxana | 2,180 | $56,364 | $87,200 | Compare |
| Pecatonica | 2,178 | $71,500 | $134,900 | Compare |
| Prestbury | 2,174 | $160,370 | $359,700 | Compare |
| Catlin | 2,161 | $67,344 | $119,600 | Compare |
| Bellevue | 2,158 | $60,769 | $130,300 | Compare |
| Nokomis | 2,213 | $57,625 | $78,400 | Compare |
| Athens | 2,146 | $85,000 | $164,200 | Compare |
| Merrionette Park | 2,144 | $53,623 | $152,600 | 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 Cambridge With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Cambridge
What is the population of Cambridge, IL?
The population of Cambridge, IL is 2,184 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 Cambridge?
The median household income in Cambridge, IL is $72,292 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cambridge?
The median home value in Cambridge, IL is $120,400, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Cambridge?
The median monthly rent in Cambridge, IL is $1,039, which is 11% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cambridge?
The unemployment rate in Cambridge, IL is 5.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Cambridge, IL a good place to live?
Cambridge offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,184 and a median age of 35.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Cambridge, IL?
17.3% of residents in Cambridge 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 Cambridge?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Cambridge, IL: median home value is $120,400 (51% below national), median rent is $1,039/month, and median household income is $72,292. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Cambridge?
The poverty rate in Cambridge, IL is 7.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Cambridge, IL?
Cambridge's population is 0.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 2.4% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.