Harvel, IL
Population 254 · Illinois
About Harvel, IL
Harvel is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 254 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,500 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.7 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 Harvel features a median home value of $50,800, which is 79% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Harvel one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $730, 37% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 113 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (66 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (32 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Harvel 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 22.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Harvel have an average one-way commute time of 36.9 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
10.2% of Harvel 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 23.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Harvel Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Harvel, IL
Compared to national averages, Harvel has a median household income of $63,500 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $50,800, which is 79% below the national median. Monthly rent at $730 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Harvel's income is 15% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 69% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Harvel, IL?
Harvel offers affordable housing with a median home value of $50,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $730/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,500) that falls below the national average. However, Harvel’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Harvel has a population of 254 with a median age of 32.7 years. Compare Harvel with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
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Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 Harvel
What is the population of Harvel, IL?
The population of Harvel, IL is 254 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 Harvel?
The median household income in Harvel, IL is $63,500 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Harvel?
The median home value in Harvel, IL is $50,800, which is 79% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Harvel?
The median monthly rent in Harvel, IL is $730, which is 37% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Harvel?
The unemployment rate in Harvel, 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 Harvel, IL a good place to live?
Harvel offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 254 and a median age of 32.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Harvel, IL?
10.2% of residents in Harvel 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 Harvel?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Harvel, IL: median home value is $50,800 (79% below national), median rent is $730/month, and median household income is $63,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Harvel?
The poverty rate in Harvel, IL is 22.8%, 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 Harvel, IL?
Harvel's population is 23.2% White, 0.0% 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.