Malta, IL
Population 1,507 · Illinois
About Malta, IL
Malta is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,507 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,611 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.7 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Malta features a median home value of $178,900, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Malta in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,036, 11% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 546 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (354 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (182 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Malta shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 20.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Malta have an average one-way commute time of 26.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.7% of Malta 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 18.0% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 7.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Malta, IL
Compared to national averages, Malta has a median household income of $83,611 (11% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $178,900, which is 27% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,036 is 11% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Malta's income is 11% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 8% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Malta, IL?
Malta offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,611, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $178,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,036/month.
Malta has a population of 1,507 with a median age of 33.7 years. Compare Malta with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Malta
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lanark | 1,510 | $66,250 | $97,100 | Compare |
| Warsaw | 1,511 | $58,074 | $90,700 | Compare |
| Mount Pulaski | 1,513 | $70,175 | $113,400 | Compare |
| Grayville | 1,515 | $47,308 | $76,000 | Compare |
| Mount Carroll | 1,515 | $59,167 | $88,800 | Compare |
| Kirkland | 1,497 | $92,500 | $187,800 | Compare |
| Williamsville | 1,519 | $104,135 | $187,000 | Compare |
| Virginia | 1,491 | $51,818 | $93,500 | 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 Malta With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Malta
What is the population of Malta, IL?
The population of Malta, IL is 1,507 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 Malta?
The median household income in Malta, IL is $83,611 per year, which is 11% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Malta?
The median home value in Malta, IL is $178,900, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Malta?
The median monthly rent in Malta, IL is $1,036, which is 11% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Malta?
The unemployment rate in Malta, IL is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Malta, IL a good place to live?
Malta offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,507 and a median age of 33.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Malta, IL?
23.7% of residents in Malta 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 Malta?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Malta, IL: median home value is $178,900 (27% below national), median rent is $1,036/month, and median household income is $83,611. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Malta?
The poverty rate in Malta, IL is 20.4%, 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 Malta, IL?
Malta's population is 18.0% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 2.8% two or more races. 7.2% of residents are foreign-born.