Cobden, IL
Population 1,064 · Illinois
About Cobden, IL
Cobden is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,064 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $42,250 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Cobden features a median home value of $106,400, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Cobden one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 537 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (307 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (113 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cobden shows an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 29.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Cobden have an average one-way commute time of 24.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.8% of Cobden 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 31.4% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 18.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Cobden, IL
Compared to national averages, Cobden has a median household income of $42,250 (44% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $106,400, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Cobden's income is 44% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 36% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Cobden, IL?
Cobden offers affordable housing with a median home value of $106,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($42,250) that falls below the national average. However, Cobden’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cobden has a population of 1,064 with a median age of 47.2 years. Compare Cobden with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Cobden
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raymond | 1,065 | $64,063 | $96,600 | Compare |
| St. Anne | 1,070 | $71,574 | $129,500 | Compare |
| Colchester | 1,057 | $62,500 | $86,500 | Compare |
| Andalusia | 1,073 | $72,589 | $150,200 | Compare |
| Royalton | 1,076 | $49,625 | $51,900 | Compare |
| Warrensburg | 1,076 | $88,897 | $141,100 | Compare |
| Grandview | 1,077 | $48,906 | $72,900 | Compare |
| Wayne City | 1,050 | $58,208 | $108,600 | 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 Cobden With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Cobden
What is the population of Cobden, IL?
The population of Cobden, IL is 1,064 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 Cobden?
The median household income in Cobden, IL is $42,250 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cobden?
The median home value in Cobden, IL is $106,400, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Cobden?
The median monthly rent in Cobden, IL is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cobden?
The unemployment rate in Cobden, IL is 3.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Cobden, IL a good place to live?
Cobden offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,064 and a median age of 47.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Cobden, IL?
19.8% of residents in Cobden 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 Cobden?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Cobden, IL: median home value is $106,400 (57% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $42,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Cobden?
The poverty rate in Cobden, IL is 29.2%, 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 Cobden, IL?
Cobden's population is 31.4% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 1.2% two or more races. 18.0% of residents are foreign-born.