Forrest, IL
Population 1,008 · Illinois
About Forrest, IL
Forrest is a small community in Illinois with a population of 1,008 residents. The median household income is $70,417 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Forrest is 32.6 years.
Housing in Forrest has a median home value of $104,000 and median monthly rent of $663. Of the 472 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 360 owner-occupied and 91 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Forrest is 0.6% and the poverty rate is 14.7%. 18.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.3 minutes.
How Forrest Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Forrest, IL
Compared to national averages, Forrest has a median household income of $70,417 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $104,000, which is 58% below the national median. Monthly rent at $663 is 43% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Forrest's income is 6% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 37% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Forrest, IL?
Forrest offers affordable housing with a median home value of $104,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $663/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.6%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,417) that falls below the national average. However, Forrest’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Forrest has a population of 1,008 with a median age of 32.6 years. Compare Forrest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Forrest
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wenona | 1,006 | $40,921 | $88,900 | Compare |
| Hamel | 1,004 | $105,313 | $231,900 | Compare |
| Rapids City | 1,012 | $90,750 | $207,600 | Compare |
| Percy | 1,014 | $42,813 | $88,500 | Compare |
| Ashland | 1,001 | $62,417 | $104,000 | Compare |
| Minier | 999 | $77,500 | $138,200 | Compare |
| Ramsey | 998 | $50,664 | $58,000 | Compare |
| Forest View | 1,022 | $108,833 | $257,100 | 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 Forrest
What is the population of Forrest, IL?
The population of Forrest, IL is 1,008 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Forrest?
The median household income in Forrest, IL is $70,417 per year.
What is the median home value in Forrest?
The median home value in Forrest, IL is $104,000.
What is the average rent in Forrest?
The median monthly rent in Forrest, IL is $663.
What is the unemployment rate in Forrest?
The unemployment rate in Forrest, IL is 0.6%.