Gardner, IL
Population 1,319 · Illinois
About Gardner, IL
Gardner is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,319 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,125 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Gardner features a median home value of $183,300, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Gardner in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,024, 12% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 524 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (360 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (107 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Gardner shows an unemployment rate of 12.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Gardner have an average one-way commute time of 29.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.4% of Gardner 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 6.3% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 6.8% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 1.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Gardner, IL
Compared to national averages, Gardner has a median household income of $82,125 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $183,300, which is 25% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,024 is 12% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Gardner's income is 9% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 11% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Gardner, IL?
Gardner offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,125, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $183,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,024/month.
Gardner has a population of 1,319 with a median age of 38.5 years. Compare Gardner with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Gardner
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toluca | 1,313 | $66,667 | $110,000 | Compare |
| Zeigler | 1,325 | $39,148 | $52,000 | Compare |
| Okawville | 1,312 | $84,881 | $161,400 | Compare |
| Capron | 1,328 | $97,643 | $155,800 | Compare |
| Long Creek | 1,309 | $83,214 | $165,800 | Compare |
| Sheldon | 1,309 | $43,942 | $75,200 | Compare |
| Bunker Hill | 1,305 | $72,893 | $133,700 | Compare |
| Hanna City | 1,334 | $70,774 | $122,600 | 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 Gardner With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Gardner
What is the population of Gardner, IL?
The population of Gardner, IL is 1,319 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 Gardner?
The median household income in Gardner, IL is $82,125 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Gardner?
The median home value in Gardner, IL is $183,300, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Gardner?
The median monthly rent in Gardner, IL is $1,024, which is 12% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Gardner?
The unemployment rate in Gardner, IL is 12.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Gardner, IL a good place to live?
Gardner offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,319 and a median age of 38.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Gardner, IL?
17.4% of residents in Gardner 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 Gardner?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Gardner, IL: median home value is $183,300 (25% below national), median rent is $1,024/month, and median household income is $82,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Gardner?
The poverty rate in Gardner, IL is 15.2%, 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 Gardner, IL?
Gardner's population is 6.3% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 6.8% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 1.4% of residents are foreign-born.