Cary, IL
Population 17,875 · Illinois
About Cary, IL
Cary is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 17,875 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $109,790 per year, which is 46% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Cary features a median home value of $287,000, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Cary in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,456, 25% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,506 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (5,435 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (907 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cary shows an unemployment rate of 5.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 4.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Cary have an average one-way commute time of 28.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
45.5% of Cary residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 9.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, and 2.2% Asian residents, with 7.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Cary, IL
Compared to national averages, Cary has a median household income of $109,790 (46% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $287,000, which is 17% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,456 is 25% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Cary's income is 46% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 73% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Cary, IL?
Cary offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $109,790, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 45.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 4.6%, better than the national average.
Cary has a population of 17,875 with a median age of 38.6 years. Compare Cary with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Cary
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Godfrey | 17,743 | $92,746 | $181,400 | Compare |
| Lemont | 17,643 | $126,100 | $447,800 | Compare |
| Bourbonnais | 18,109 | $81,017 | $242,600 | Compare |
| Palos Hills | 18,139 | $83,969 | $259,200 | Compare |
| Shorewood | 18,218 | $122,648 | $324,600 | Compare |
| Franklin Park | 18,233 | $76,009 | $261,700 | Compare |
| Sycamore | 18,243 | $80,837 | $254,200 | Compare |
| Jacksonville | 17,490 | $62,615 | $128,300 | 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 Cary With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Cary
What is the population of Cary, IL?
The population of Cary, IL is 17,875 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Cary?
The median household income in Cary, IL is $109,790 per year, which is 46% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cary?
The median home value in Cary, IL is $287,000, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Cary?
The median monthly rent in Cary, IL is $1,456, which is 25% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cary?
The unemployment rate in Cary, IL is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Cary, IL a good place to live?
Cary offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 17,875 and a median age of 38.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Cary, IL?
45.5% of residents in Cary aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Cary?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Cary, IL: median home value is $287,000 (17% above national), median rent is $1,456/month, and median household income is $109,790. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Cary?
The poverty rate in Cary, IL is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Cary, IL?
Cary's population is 9.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, 2.2% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 7.2% of residents are foreign-born.