Essex, IL
Population 956 · Illinois
About Essex, IL
Essex is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 956 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $101,094 per year, which is 35% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.6 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 Essex features a median home value of $219,000, which is 11% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Essex in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,147, 1% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 351 total housing units, 91% are owner-occupied (291 units) and 9% are renter-occupied (30 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Essex shows an unemployment rate of 3.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 4.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Essex have an average one-way commute time of 30.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.8% of Essex 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 12.9% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Essex, IL
Compared to national averages, Essex has a median household income of $101,094 (35% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $219,000, which is 11% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,147 is 1% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Essex's income is 35% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 32% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Essex, IL?
Essex offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $101,094, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $219,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,147/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%, and a low poverty rate of 4.8%, better than the national average.
Essex has a population of 956 with a median age of 31.6 years. Compare Essex with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Essex
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annawan | 955 | $71,250 | $138,200 | Compare |
| Colfax | 955 | $71,528 | $123,000 | Compare |
| Orangeville | 957 | $70,833 | $135,600 | Compare |
| Cissna Park | 960 | $50,625 | $117,900 | Compare |
| Danvers | 951 | $66,964 | $156,500 | Compare |
| South Pekin | 949 | $64,750 | $106,000 | Compare |
| Harrison | 948 | $75,417 | $128,600 | Compare |
| Oakland | 948 | $49,571 | $97,200 | 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 Essex With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Essex
What is the population of Essex, IL?
The population of Essex, IL is 956 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 Essex?
The median household income in Essex, IL is $101,094 per year, which is 35% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Essex?
The median home value in Essex, IL is $219,000, which is 11% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Essex?
The median monthly rent in Essex, IL is $1,147, which is 1% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Essex?
The unemployment rate in Essex, IL is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Essex, IL a good place to live?
Essex offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 956 and a median age of 31.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Essex, IL?
21.8% of residents in Essex 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 Essex?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Essex, IL: median home value is $219,000 (11% below national), median rent is $1,147/month, and median household income is $101,094. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Essex?
The poverty rate in Essex, IL is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Essex, IL?
Essex's population is 12.9% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.