Cerro Gordo, IL
Population 1,426 · Illinois
About Cerro Gordo, IL
Cerro Gordo is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,426 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $69,118 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.7 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 Cerro Gordo features a median home value of $108,000, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Cerro Gordo one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $875, 25% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 566 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (419 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (117 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cerro Gordo shows an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Cerro Gordo have an average one-way commute time of 21.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.6% of Cerro Gordo 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 1.4% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Cerro Gordo, IL
Compared to national averages, Cerro Gordo has a median household income of $69,118 (8% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $108,000, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $875 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Cerro Gordo's income is 8% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 35% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Cerro Gordo, IL?
Cerro Gordo offers affordable housing with a median home value of $108,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $875/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.3%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 21.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($69,118) that falls below the national average. However, Cerro Gordo’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cerro Gordo has a population of 1,426 with a median age of 33.7 years. Compare Cerro Gordo with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Cerro Gordo
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Dubuque | 1,427 | $62,313 | $146,800 | Compare |
| Albers | 1,428 | $116,691 | $209,000 | Compare |
| Mazon | 1,424 | $76,458 | $203,100 | Compare |
| Lily Lake | 1,432 | $145,192 | $379,300 | Compare |
| Waterman | 1,419 | $97,386 | $212,900 | Compare |
| Warren | 1,439 | $73,500 | $104,900 | Compare |
| Barry | 1,442 | $66,017 | $88,600 | Compare |
| Arbury Hills | 1,408 | $103,456 | $225,600 | 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 Cerro Gordo With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Cerro Gordo
What is the population of Cerro Gordo, IL?
The population of Cerro Gordo, IL is 1,426 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 Cerro Gordo?
The median household income in Cerro Gordo, IL is $69,118 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cerro Gordo?
The median home value in Cerro Gordo, IL is $108,000, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Cerro Gordo?
The median monthly rent in Cerro Gordo, IL is $875, which is 25% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cerro Gordo?
The unemployment rate in Cerro Gordo, IL is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Cerro Gordo, IL a good place to live?
Cerro Gordo offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,426 and a median age of 33.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Cerro Gordo, IL?
17.6% of residents in Cerro Gordo 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 Cerro Gordo?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Cerro Gordo, IL: median home value is $108,000 (56% below national), median rent is $875/month, and median household income is $69,118. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Cerro Gordo?
The poverty rate in Cerro Gordo, IL is 11.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Cerro Gordo, IL?
Cerro Gordo's population is 1.4% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.