Highwood, IL
Population 5,243 · Illinois
About Highwood, IL
Highwood is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 5,243 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $101,862 per year, which is 36% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Highwood features a median home value of $454,500, which is 86% above the national median of $244,900. This places Highwood in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,800, 55% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,969 total housing units, 49% are owner-occupied (949 units) and 51% are renter-occupied (988 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Highwood shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Highwood have an average one-way commute time of 31.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
38.1% of Highwood 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 38.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 1.4% Asian residents, with 23.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Highwood, IL
Compared to national averages, Highwood has a median household income of $101,862 (36% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $454,500, which is 86% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,800 is 55% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Highwood's income is 36% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 174% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Highwood, IL?
Highwood offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $101,862, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 38.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $454,500. However, Highwood’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Highwood has a population of 5,243 with a median age of 35.9 years. Compare Highwood with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Highwood
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berkeley | 5,222 | $83,224 | $222,400 | Compare |
| Pana | 5,277 | $45,083 | $82,000 | Compare |
| Colona | 5,189 | $76,558 | $152,100 | Compare |
| Grandwood Park | 5,311 | $124,847 | $313,000 | Compare |
| Posen | 5,331 | $71,994 | $172,800 | Compare |
| Coal City | 5,145 | $73,030 | $211,600 | Compare |
| Monee | 5,104 | $89,571 | $226,400 | Compare |
| Eureka | 5,095 | $55,172 | $154,600 | 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 Highwood With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Highwood
What is the population of Highwood, IL?
The population of Highwood, IL is 5,243 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 Highwood?
The median household income in Highwood, IL is $101,862 per year, which is 36% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Highwood?
The median home value in Highwood, IL is $454,500, which is 86% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Highwood?
The median monthly rent in Highwood, IL is $1,800, which is 55% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Highwood?
The unemployment rate in Highwood, IL is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Highwood, IL a good place to live?
Highwood offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,243 and a median age of 35.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Highwood, IL?
38.1% of residents in Highwood aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Highwood?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Highwood, IL: median home value is $454,500 (86% above national), median rent is $1,800/month, and median household income is $101,862. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Highwood?
The poverty rate in Highwood, IL is 15.8%, 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 Highwood, IL?
Highwood's population is 38.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, and 2.5% two or more races. 23.3% of residents are foreign-born.