Gilson, IL
Population 149 · Illinois
About Gilson, IL
Gilson is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 149 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,719 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 61.6 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 Gilson features a median home value of $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Gilson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 113 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (59 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (12 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Gilson shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 0.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Gilson have an average one-way commute time of 29.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.9% of Gilson 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 0.0% White, 7.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Gilson, IL
Compared to national averages, Gilson has a median household income of $66,719 (11% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $0, which is 100% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Gilson's income is 11% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 100% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Gilson, IL?
Gilson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $0, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 0.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,719) that falls below the national average. However, Gilson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Gilson has a population of 149 with a median age of 61.6 years. Compare Gilson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Gilson
What is the population of Gilson, IL?
The population of Gilson, IL is 149 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Gilson?
The median household income in Gilson, IL is $66,719 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Gilson?
The median home value in Gilson, IL is $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Gilson?
The median monthly rent in Gilson, IL is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Gilson?
The unemployment rate in Gilson, IL is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Gilson, IL a good place to live?
Gilson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 149 and a median age of 61.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Gilson, IL?
12.9% of residents in Gilson 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 Gilson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Gilson, IL: median home value is $0 (100% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $66,719. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Gilson?
The poverty rate in Gilson, IL is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Gilson, IL?
Gilson's population is 0.0% White, 7.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.