Cary, IL
Population 17,875 · Illinois
About Cary, IL
Cary is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 17,875 residents. The median household income is $109,790 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Cary is 38.6 years.
Housing in Cary has a median home value of $287,000 and median monthly rent of $1,456. Of the 6,506 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 5,435 owner-occupied and 907 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Cary is 5.1% and the poverty rate is 4.6%. 45.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28.6 minutes.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Cary
What is the population of Cary, IL?
The population of Cary, IL is 17,875 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Cary?
The median household income in Cary, IL is $109,790 per year.
What is the median home value in Cary?
The median home value in Cary, IL is $287,000.
What is the average rent in Cary?
The median monthly rent in Cary, IL is $1,456.
What is the unemployment rate in Cary?
The unemployment rate in Cary, IL is 5.1%.