Clay City, IL
Population 744 · Illinois
About Clay City, IL
Clay City is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 744 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,750 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.7 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Clay City features a median home value of $75,500, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Clay City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $585, 50% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 393 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (228 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (75 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Clay City shows an unemployment rate of 4.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 27.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Clay City have an average one-way commute time of 25.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.6% of Clay City 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 0.3% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Clay City, IL
Compared to national averages, Clay City has a median household income of $53,750 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $75,500, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $585 is 50% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Clay City's income is 28% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 54% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Clay City, IL?
Clay City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $75,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $585/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,750) that falls below the national average. However, Clay City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Clay City has a population of 744 with a median age of 40.7 years. Compare Clay City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Clay City
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Owaneco | 744 | $66,875 | $96,300 | Compare |
| Hopedale | 742 | $53,958 | $135,600 | Compare |
| Mechanicsburg | 748 | $77,422 | $206,300 | Compare |
| Crossville | 749 | $40,682 | $61,300 | Compare |
| Mulberry Grove | 739 | $57,250 | $74,800 | Compare |
| Ashmore | 750 | $57,361 | $87,100 | Compare |
| Junction City | 753 | $53,333 | $71,300 | Compare |
| Union | 753 | $100,104 | $224,600 | 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 Clay City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Clay City
What is the population of Clay City, IL?
The population of Clay City, IL is 744 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Clay City?
The median household income in Clay City, IL is $53,750 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Clay City?
The median home value in Clay City, IL is $75,500, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Clay City?
The median monthly rent in Clay City, IL is $585, which is 50% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Clay City?
The unemployment rate in Clay City, IL is 4.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Clay City, IL a good place to live?
Clay City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 744 and a median age of 40.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Clay City, IL?
6.6% of residents in Clay City 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 Clay City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Clay City, IL: median home value is $75,500 (69% below national), median rent is $585/month, and median household income is $53,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Clay City?
The poverty rate in Clay City, IL is 27.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Clay City, IL?
Clay City's population is 0.3% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.2% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.