Dolton, IL
Population 20,979 · Illinois
About Dolton, IL
Dolton is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 20,979 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,706 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Dolton features a median home value of $140,500, which is 43% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dolton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,399, 20% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 9,035 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (5,700 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (2,219 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dolton shows an unemployment rate of 10.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 20.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Dolton have an average one-way commute time of 32.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.7% of Dolton 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 1.2% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 3.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Dolton, IL
Compared to national averages, Dolton has a median household income of $58,706 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $140,500, which is 43% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,399 is 20% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Dolton's income is 22% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 15% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Dolton, IL?
Dolton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $140,500, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,706) that falls below the national average. However, Dolton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Dolton has a population of 20,979 with a median age of 40 years. Compare Dolton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Dolton
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Holland | 21,016 | $87,378 | $201,200 | Compare |
| Park Forest | 20,898 | $62,305 | $106,200 | Compare |
| East Moline | 20,837 | $63,328 | $135,300 | Compare |
| Montgomery | 21,205 | $96,985 | $270,700 | Compare |
| Grayslake | 20,707 | $113,697 | $293,900 | Compare |
| Geneva | 21,299 | $136,621 | $415,800 | Compare |
| Libertyville | 20,493 | $162,270 | $499,300 | Compare |
| Frankfort | 20,417 | $153,714 | $461,600 | 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 Dolton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Dolton
What is the population of Dolton, IL?
The population of Dolton, IL is 20,979 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Dolton?
The median household income in Dolton, IL is $58,706 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dolton?
The median home value in Dolton, IL is $140,500, which is 43% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dolton?
The median monthly rent in Dolton, IL is $1,399, which is 20% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dolton?
The unemployment rate in Dolton, IL is 10.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Dolton, IL a good place to live?
Dolton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 20,979 and a median age of 40, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Dolton, IL?
22.7% of residents in Dolton 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 Dolton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dolton, IL: median home value is $140,500 (43% below national), median rent is $1,399/month, and median household income is $58,706. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dolton?
The poverty rate in Dolton, IL is 20.4%, 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 Dolton, IL?
Dolton's population is 1.2% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 90.9% two or more races. 3.4% of residents are foreign-born.