Karnak, IL
Population 507 · Illinois
About Karnak, IL
Karnak is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 507 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $41,458 per year, which is 45% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.2 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 Karnak features a median home value of $66,700, which is 73% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Karnak one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $708, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 195 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (128 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (37 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Karnak shows an unemployment rate of 3.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 30.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Karnak have an average one-way commute time of 26.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.1% of Karnak 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, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Karnak, IL
Compared to national averages, Karnak has a median household income of $41,458 (45% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $66,700, which is 73% below the national median. Monthly rent at $708 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Karnak's income is 45% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 60% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Karnak, IL?
Karnak offers affordable housing with a median home value of $66,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $708/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.6%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,458) that falls below the national average. However, Karnak’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Karnak has a population of 507 with a median age of 42.2 years. Compare Karnak 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 Karnak
What is the population of Karnak, IL?
The population of Karnak, IL is 507 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 Karnak?
The median household income in Karnak, IL is $41,458 per year, which is 45% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Karnak?
The median home value in Karnak, IL is $66,700, which is 73% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Karnak?
The median monthly rent in Karnak, IL is $708, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Karnak?
The unemployment rate in Karnak, IL is 3.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Karnak, IL a good place to live?
Karnak offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 507 and a median age of 42.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Karnak, IL?
17.1% of residents in Karnak 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 Karnak?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Karnak, IL: median home value is $66,700 (73% below national), median rent is $708/month, and median household income is $41,458. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Karnak?
The poverty rate in Karnak, IL is 30.4%, 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 Karnak, IL?
Karnak's population is 0.0% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 7.5% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.