Dakota, IL
Population 625 · Illinois
About Dakota, IL
Dakota is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 625 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $57,063 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 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 Dakota features a median home value of $115,700, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dakota one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $644, 45% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 279 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (137 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (78 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dakota shows an unemployment rate of 4.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 12.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Dakota have an average one-way commute time of 24 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.4% of Dakota 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 2.9% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Dakota, IL
Compared to national averages, Dakota has a median household income of $57,063 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $115,700, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $644 is 45% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Dakota's income is 24% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 30% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Dakota, IL?
Dakota offers affordable housing with a median home value of $115,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $644/month, and short commute times averaging just 24 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,063) that falls below the national average. However, Dakota’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Dakota has a population of 625 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare Dakota with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Dakota
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 Dakota
What is the population of Dakota, IL?
The population of Dakota, IL is 625 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 Dakota?
The median household income in Dakota, IL is $57,063 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dakota?
The median home value in Dakota, IL is $115,700, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dakota?
The median monthly rent in Dakota, IL is $644, which is 45% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dakota?
The unemployment rate in Dakota, IL is 4.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Dakota, IL a good place to live?
Dakota offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 625 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Dakota, IL?
17.4% of residents in Dakota 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 Dakota?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dakota, IL: median home value is $115,700 (53% below national), median rent is $644/month, and median household income is $57,063. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dakota?
The poverty rate in Dakota, IL is 12.5%, 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 Dakota, IL?
Dakota's population is 2.9% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.3% of residents are foreign-born.