Dawson, IL
Population 555 · Illinois
About Dawson, IL
Dawson is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 555 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,880 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Dawson features a median home value of $97,500, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dawson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $805, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 263 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (173 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (54 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dawson shows an unemployment rate of 2.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Dawson have an average one-way commute time of 22 minutes.
Education & Demographics
9.7% of Dawson 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 1.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Dawson, IL
Compared to national averages, Dawson has a median household income of $82,880 (10% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $97,500, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $805 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Dawson's income is 10% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 41% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Dawson, IL?
Dawson offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,880, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $97,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $805/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.6%, and a low poverty rate of 6.2%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22 minutes.
Dawson has a population of 555 with a median age of 41 years. Compare Dawson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Dawson
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franklin | 554 | $66,250 | $103,300 | Compare |
| Hecker | 556 | $80,260 | $153,700 | Compare |
| Ava | 557 | $57,250 | $86,700 | Compare |
| Dix | 557 | $28,750 | $93,000 | Compare |
| Chandlerville | 552 | $43,333 | $56,200 | Compare |
| South Wilmington | 558 | $86,563 | $164,900 | Compare |
| Grand Tower | 551 | $59,375 | $24,500 | Compare |
| Greenwood | 559 | $138,750 | $407,300 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Dawson
What is the population of Dawson, IL?
The population of Dawson, IL is 555 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 Dawson?
The median household income in Dawson, IL is $82,880 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dawson?
The median home value in Dawson, IL is $97,500, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dawson?
The median monthly rent in Dawson, IL is $805, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dawson?
The unemployment rate in Dawson, IL is 2.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Dawson, IL a good place to live?
Dawson offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 555 and a median age of 41, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Dawson, IL?
9.7% of residents in Dawson 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 Dawson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dawson, IL: median home value is $97,500 (60% below national), median rent is $805/month, and median household income is $82,880. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dawson?
The poverty rate in Dawson, IL is 6.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Dawson, IL?
Dawson's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 3.4% two or more races. 1.3% of residents are foreign-born.