Lena, IL
Population 2,778 · Illinois
About Lena, IL
Lena is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,778 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,076 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 Lena features a median home value of $154,000, which is 37% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Lena in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $647, 44% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,250 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (952 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (227 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lena shows an unemployment rate of 2.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 3.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Lena have an average one-way commute time of 28 minutes.
Education & Demographics
27.7% of Lena 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 0.8% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Lena, IL
Compared to national averages, Lena has a median household income of $76,076 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $154,000, which is 37% below the national median. Monthly rent at $647 is 44% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Lena's income is 1% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 7% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Lena, IL?
Lena offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,076, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $154,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $647/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.9%, and a low poverty rate of 3.3%, better than the national average.
Lena has a population of 2,778 with a median age of 43.8 years. Compare Lena with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Lena
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | 2,788 | $44,181 | $51,200 | Compare |
| Bushnell | 2,763 | $55,368 | $69,100 | Compare |
| McLeansboro | 2,750 | $46,589 | $72,200 | Compare |
| Hamilton | 2,738 | $53,487 | $105,600 | Compare |
| Heyworth | 2,818 | $90,556 | $196,200 | Compare |
| Oakbrook Terrace | 2,714 | $70,586 | $315,600 | Compare |
| Pawnee | 2,706 | $77,977 | $151,100 | Compare |
| Savanna | 2,851 | $46,094 | $75,000 | 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 Lena With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lena
What is the population of Lena, IL?
The population of Lena, IL is 2,778 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 Lena?
The median household income in Lena, IL is $76,076 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lena?
The median home value in Lena, IL is $154,000, which is 37% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lena?
The median monthly rent in Lena, IL is $647, which is 44% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lena?
The unemployment rate in Lena, IL is 2.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Lena, IL a good place to live?
Lena offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,778 and a median age of 43.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Lena, IL?
27.7% of residents in Lena 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 Lena?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lena, IL: median home value is $154,000 (37% below national), median rent is $647/month, and median household income is $76,076. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Lena?
The poverty rate in Lena, IL is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Lena, IL?
Lena's population is 0.8% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.