Galva, IL
Population 2,543 · Illinois
About Galva, IL
Galva is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,543 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,446 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.9 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Galva features a median home value of $77,800, which is 68% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Galva one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $777, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,182 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (828 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (245 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Galva shows an unemployment rate of 2.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 20.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Galva have an average one-way commute time of 26.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.7% of Galva residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.7% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 1.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Galva, IL
Compared to national averages, Galva has a median household income of $55,446 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $77,800, which is 68% below the national median. Monthly rent at $777 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Galva's income is 26% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 53% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Galva, IL?
Galva offers affordable housing with a median home value of $77,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $777/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.2%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,446) that falls below the national average. However, Galva’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Galva has a population of 2,543 with a median age of 43.9 years. Compare Galva with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Galva
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenilworth | 2,543 | $250,001 | $1,409,800 | Compare |
| Tilton | 2,537 | $53,246 | $71,700 | Compare |
| Brighton | 2,536 | $74,327 | $123,000 | Compare |
| Richmond | 2,530 | $70,379 | $225,800 | Compare |
| Carrollton | 2,528 | $64,464 | $114,100 | Compare |
| Seneca | 2,525 | $91,065 | $206,400 | Compare |
| Carthage | 2,508 | $75,179 | $115,600 | Compare |
| Round Lake Heights | 2,585 | $75,556 | $196,100 | 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 Galva With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Galva
What is the population of Galva, IL?
The population of Galva, IL is 2,543 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 Galva?
The median household income in Galva, IL is $55,446 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Galva?
The median home value in Galva, IL is $77,800, which is 68% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Galva?
The median monthly rent in Galva, IL is $777, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Galva?
The unemployment rate in Galva, IL is 2.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Galva, IL a good place to live?
Galva offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,543 and a median age of 43.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Galva, IL?
23.7% of residents in Galva 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 Galva?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Galva, IL: median home value is $77,800 (68% below national), median rent is $777/month, and median household income is $55,446. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Galva?
The poverty rate in Galva, IL is 20.9%, 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 Galva, IL?
Galva's population is 4.7% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 1.1% two or more races. 1.3% of residents are foreign-born.