Highland, IL
Population 10,268 · Illinois
About Highland, IL
Highland is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 10,268 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,886 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.1 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 Highland features a median home value of $185,800, which is 24% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Highland in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $776, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,025 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (3,427 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (1,366 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Highland shows an unemployment rate of 2.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Highland have an average one-way commute time of 26.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.3% of Highland 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 2.4% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 1.7% Asian residents, with 4.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Highland, IL
Compared to national averages, Highland has a median household income of $77,886 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $185,800, which is 24% below the national median. Monthly rent at $776 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Highland's income is 4% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 12% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Highland, IL?
Highland offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,886, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $185,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $776/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.1%, and a low poverty rate of 6.0%, better than the national average.
Highland has a population of 10,268 with a median age of 42.1 years. Compare Highland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Highland
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan | 10,315 | $128,375 | $314,400 | Compare |
| Wood River | 10,315 | $65,960 | $103,200 | Compare |
| Lyons | 10,391 | $64,209 | $243,500 | Compare |
| River Grove | 10,482 | $74,793 | $244,700 | Compare |
| Riverdale | 10,515 | $45,709 | $104,800 | Compare |
| Winfield | 9,982 | $143,102 | $363,400 | Compare |
| Pingree Grove | 10,576 | $119,880 | $298,300 | Compare |
| Crestwood | 10,622 | $68,686 | $187,700 | 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 Highland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Highland
What is the population of Highland, IL?
The population of Highland, IL is 10,268 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Highland?
The median household income in Highland, IL is $77,886 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Highland?
The median home value in Highland, IL is $185,800, which is 24% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Highland?
The median monthly rent in Highland, IL is $776, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Highland?
The unemployment rate in Highland, IL is 2.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Highland, IL a good place to live?
Highland offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 10,268 and a median age of 42.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Highland, IL?
31.3% of residents in Highland 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 Highland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Highland, IL: median home value is $185,800 (24% below national), median rent is $776/month, and median household income is $77,886. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Highland?
The poverty rate in Highland, IL is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Highland, IL?
Highland's population is 2.4% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 1.7% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 4.9% of residents are foreign-born.