Golden, IL
Population 711 · Illinois
About Golden, IL
Golden is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 711 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,875 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.3 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 Golden features a median home value of $125,500, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Golden one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $713, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 334 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (232 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (69 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Golden shows an unemployment rate of 2.8%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 9.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Golden have an average one-way commute time of 29.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.3% of Golden 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 0.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Golden, IL
Compared to national averages, Golden has a median household income of $55,875 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $125,500, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $713 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Golden's income is 26% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 24% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Golden, IL?
Golden offers affordable housing with a median home value of $125,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $713/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.8%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 9.1%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,875) that falls below the national average. However, Golden’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Golden has a population of 711 with a median age of 34.3 years. Compare Golden with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
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Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Golden
What is the population of Golden, IL?
The population of Golden, IL is 711 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 Golden?
The median household income in Golden, IL is $55,875 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Golden?
The median home value in Golden, IL is $125,500, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Golden?
The median monthly rent in Golden, IL is $713, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Golden?
The unemployment rate in Golden, IL is 2.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Golden, IL a good place to live?
Golden offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 711 and a median age of 34.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Golden, IL?
28.3% of residents in Golden 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 Golden?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Golden, IL: median home value is $125,500 (49% below national), median rent is $713/month, and median household income is $55,875. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Golden?
The poverty rate in Golden, IL is 9.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Golden, IL?
Golden's population is 0.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.3% of residents are foreign-born.