Gibson City, IL
Population 3,609 · Illinois
About Gibson City, IL
Gibson City is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 3,609 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,104 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44.7 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 Gibson City features a median home value of $138,400, which is 43% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Gibson City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $802, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,633 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (1,079 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (542 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Gibson City shows an unemployment rate of 8.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Gibson City have an average one-way commute time of 21.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.1% of Gibson City 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 3.5% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 5.3% Asian residents, with 5.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Gibson City, IL
Compared to national averages, Gibson City has a median household income of $47,104 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $138,400, which is 43% below the national median. Monthly rent at $802 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Gibson City's income is 37% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 17% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Gibson City, IL?
Gibson City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $138,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $802/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,104) that falls below the national average. However, Gibson City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Gibson City has a population of 3,609 with a median age of 44.7 years. Compare Gibson City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Gibson City
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forsyth | 3,656 | $113,456 | $289,800 | Compare |
| Tolono | 3,546 | $79,333 | $207,200 | Compare |
| Fairbury | 3,683 | $65,215 | $155,900 | Compare |
| Wadsworth | 3,535 | $121,583 | $377,900 | Compare |
| Hainesville | 3,524 | $126,125 | $218,500 | Compare |
| Smithton | 3,512 | $114,453 | $251,600 | Compare |
| Deer Park | 3,711 | $160,750 | $636,200 | Compare |
| Riverton | 3,506 | $75,527 | $140,000 | 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 Gibson City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Gibson City
What is the population of Gibson City, IL?
The population of Gibson City, IL is 3,609 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 Gibson City?
The median household income in Gibson City, IL is $47,104 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Gibson City?
The median home value in Gibson City, IL is $138,400, which is 43% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Gibson City?
The median monthly rent in Gibson City, IL is $802, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Gibson City?
The unemployment rate in Gibson City, IL is 8.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Gibson City, IL a good place to live?
Gibson City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,609 and a median age of 44.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Gibson City, IL?
15.1% of residents in Gibson City 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 Gibson City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Gibson City, IL: median home value is $138,400 (43% below national), median rent is $802/month, and median household income is $47,104. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Gibson City?
The poverty rate in Gibson City, IL is 16.1%, 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 Gibson City, IL?
Gibson City's population is 3.5% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 5.3% Asian, and 1.3% two or more races. 5.6% of residents are foreign-born.