Donovan, IL
Population 254 · Illinois
About Donovan, IL
Donovan is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 254 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,038 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.5 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 Donovan features a median home value of $87,700, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Donovan one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,056, 9% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 97 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (58 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (18 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Donovan shows an unemployment rate of 17.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Donovan have an average one-way commute time of 47.9 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
12.7% of Donovan 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 0.8% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Donovan, IL
Compared to national averages, Donovan has a median household income of $49,038 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $87,700, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,056 is 9% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Donovan's income is 35% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 47% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Donovan, IL?
Donovan offers affordable housing with a median home value of $87,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,056/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,038) that falls below the national average. However, Donovan’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Donovan has a population of 254 with a median age of 33.5 years. Compare Donovan with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
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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 Donovan
What is the population of Donovan, IL?
The population of Donovan, IL is 254 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 Donovan?
The median household income in Donovan, IL is $49,038 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Donovan?
The median home value in Donovan, IL is $87,700, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Donovan?
The median monthly rent in Donovan, IL is $1,056, which is 9% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Donovan?
The unemployment rate in Donovan, IL is 17.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Donovan, IL a good place to live?
Donovan offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 254 and a median age of 33.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Donovan, IL?
12.7% of residents in Donovan 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 Donovan?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Donovan, IL: median home value is $87,700 (64% below national), median rent is $1,056/month, and median household income is $49,038. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Donovan?
The poverty rate in Donovan, IL is 14.1%, 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 Donovan, IL?
Donovan's population is 0.8% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.