Leaf River, IL
Population 475 · Illinois
About Leaf River, IL
Leaf River is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 475 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,903 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.8 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 Leaf River features a median home value of $93,600, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Leaf River one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $795, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 228 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (175 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (36 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Leaf River shows an unemployment rate of 1.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Leaf River have an average one-way commute time of 30.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.5% of Leaf River 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 1.1% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Leaf River, IL
Compared to national averages, Leaf River has a median household income of $75,903 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $93,600, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $795 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Leaf River's income is 1% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 44% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Leaf River, IL?
Leaf River offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,903, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $93,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $795/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.6%.
Leaf River has a population of 475 with a median age of 43.8 years. Compare Leaf River 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 Leaf River
What is the population of Leaf River, IL?
The population of Leaf River, IL is 475 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 Leaf River?
The median household income in Leaf River, IL is $75,903 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Leaf River?
The median home value in Leaf River, IL is $93,600, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Leaf River?
The median monthly rent in Leaf River, IL is $795, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Leaf River?
The unemployment rate in Leaf River, IL is 1.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Leaf River, IL a good place to live?
Leaf River offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 475 and a median age of 43.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Leaf River, IL?
12.5% of residents in Leaf River 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 Leaf River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Leaf River, IL: median home value is $93,600 (62% below national), median rent is $795/month, and median household income is $75,903. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Leaf River?
The poverty rate in Leaf River, IL is 14.2%, 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 Leaf River, IL?
Leaf River's population is 1.1% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.