Cowden, IL
Population 547 · Illinois
About Cowden, IL
Cowden is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 547 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $42,083 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 27.3 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 Cowden features a median home value of $76,200, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Cowden one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $767, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 237 total housing units, 56% are owner-occupied (118 units) and 44% are renter-occupied (94 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cowden shows an unemployment rate of 5.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 27.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Cowden have an average one-way commute time of 26.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.8% of Cowden 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 4.0% White, 2.6% 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 Cowden, IL
Compared to national averages, Cowden has a median household income of $42,083 (44% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $76,200, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $767 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Cowden's income is 44% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 54% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Cowden, IL?
Cowden offers affordable housing with a median home value of $76,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $767/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($42,083) that falls below the national average. However, Cowden’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cowden has a population of 547 with a median age of 27.3 years. Compare Cowden with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
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Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 Cowden
What is the population of Cowden, IL?
The population of Cowden, IL is 547 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 Cowden?
The median household income in Cowden, IL is $42,083 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cowden?
The median home value in Cowden, IL is $76,200, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Cowden?
The median monthly rent in Cowden, IL is $767, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cowden?
The unemployment rate in Cowden, IL is 5.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Cowden, IL a good place to live?
Cowden offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 547 and a median age of 27.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Cowden, IL?
13.8% of residents in Cowden 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 Cowden?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Cowden, IL: median home value is $76,200 (69% below national), median rent is $767/month, and median household income is $42,083. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Cowden?
The poverty rate in Cowden, IL is 27.2%, 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 Cowden, IL?
Cowden's population is 4.0% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.