Forrest, IL
Population 1,008 · Illinois
About Forrest, IL
Forrest is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,008 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,417 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.6 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 Forrest features a median home value of $104,000, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Forrest one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $663, 43% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 472 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (360 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (91 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Forrest shows an unemployment rate of 0.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Forrest have an average one-way commute time of 30.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.5% of Forrest 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 3.4% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.3% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Forrest With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Forrest
What is the population of Forrest, IL?
The population of Forrest, IL is 1,008 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Forrest?
The median household income in Forrest, IL is $70,417 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Forrest?
The median home value in Forrest, IL is $104,000, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Forrest?
The median monthly rent in Forrest, IL is $663, which is 43% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Forrest?
The unemployment rate in Forrest, IL is 0.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Forrest, IL a good place to live?
Forrest offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,008 and a median age of 32.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Forrest, IL?
18.5% of residents in Forrest 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 Forrest?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Forrest, IL: median home value is $104,000 (58% below national), median rent is $663/month, and median household income is $70,417. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Forrest?
The poverty rate in Forrest, IL is 14.7%, 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 Forrest, IL?
Forrest's population is 3.4% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.3% of residents are foreign-born.