Crete, IL
Population 8,382 · Illinois
About Crete, IL
Crete is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 8,382 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $97,984 per year, which is 30% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.4 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 Crete features a median home value of $209,100, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Crete in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,283, 10% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,449 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (2,891 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (329 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Crete shows an unemployment rate of 7.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 8.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Crete have an average one-way commute time of 37.4 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
33.7% of Crete residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 7.5% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 3.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Crete, IL
Compared to national averages, Crete has a median household income of $97,984 (30% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $209,100, which is 15% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,283 is 10% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Crete's income is 31% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 26% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Crete, IL?
Crete offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $97,984, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $209,100, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 8.2%, better than the national average.
Crete has a population of 8,382 with a median age of 49.4 years. Compare Crete with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Crete
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gilberts | 8,389 | $119,719 | $330,100 | Compare |
| Hampshire | 8,351 | $107,774 | $316,200 | Compare |
| Maryville | 8,280 | $100,813 | $253,100 | Compare |
| Long Grove | 8,266 | $235,368 | $746,700 | Compare |
| Rockton | 8,238 | $109,333 | $222,100 | Compare |
| Harrisburg | 8,608 | $48,488 | $84,800 | Compare |
| Paris | 8,154 | $51,798 | $71,200 | Compare |
| Glenwood | 8,620 | $71,376 | $182,900 | 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 Crete With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Crete
What is the population of Crete, IL?
The population of Crete, IL is 8,382 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 Crete?
The median household income in Crete, IL is $97,984 per year, which is 30% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Crete?
The median home value in Crete, IL is $209,100, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Crete?
The median monthly rent in Crete, IL is $1,283, which is 10% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Crete?
The unemployment rate in Crete, IL is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Crete, IL a good place to live?
Crete offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 8,382 and a median age of 49.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Crete, IL?
33.7% of residents in Crete 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 Crete?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Crete, IL: median home value is $209,100 (15% below national), median rent is $1,283/month, and median household income is $97,984. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Crete?
The poverty rate in Crete, IL is 8.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Crete, IL?
Crete's population is 7.5% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 34.3% two or more races. 3.8% of residents are foreign-born.