Marengo, IL
Population 7,123 · Illinois
About Marengo, IL
Marengo is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 7,123 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $72,586 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.3 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 Marengo features a median home value of $206,100, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Marengo in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,077, 7% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,898 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (1,923 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (873 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marengo shows an unemployment rate of 8.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marengo have an average one-way commute time of 28.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.5% of Marengo 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 10.6% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 5.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Marengo, IL
Compared to national averages, Marengo has a median household income of $72,586 (3% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $206,100, which is 16% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,077 is 7% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Marengo's income is 3% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 24% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Marengo, IL?
Marengo offers affordable housing with a median home value of $206,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,077/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,586) that falls below the national average. However, Marengo’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Marengo has a population of 7,123 with a median age of 33.3 years. Compare Marengo with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Marengo
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sandwich | 7,121 | $77,027 | $239,600 | Compare |
| University Park | 7,109 | $65,580 | $137,800 | Compare |
| West Frankfort | 7,156 | $48,143 | $72,500 | Compare |
| Greenville | 7,159 | $52,727 | $119,800 | Compare |
| Benton | 7,076 | $51,349 | $85,100 | Compare |
| Clinton | 7,012 | $55,960 | $101,200 | Compare |
| Robinson | 7,005 | $67,591 | $102,600 | Compare |
| Stickney | 6,957 | $67,307 | $236,000 | 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 Marengo With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Marengo
What is the population of Marengo, IL?
The population of Marengo, IL is 7,123 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 Marengo?
The median household income in Marengo, IL is $72,586 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marengo?
The median home value in Marengo, IL is $206,100, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Marengo?
The median monthly rent in Marengo, IL is $1,077, which is 7% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marengo?
The unemployment rate in Marengo, IL is 8.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marengo, IL a good place to live?
Marengo offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 7,123 and a median age of 33.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Marengo, IL?
16.5% of residents in Marengo 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 Marengo?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Marengo, IL: median home value is $206,100 (16% below national), median rent is $1,077/month, and median household income is $72,586. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marengo?
The poverty rate in Marengo, IL is 15.6%, 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 Marengo, IL?
Marengo's population is 10.6% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 1.3% two or more races. 5.7% of residents are foreign-born.