Markham, IL
Population 11,434 · Illinois
About Markham, IL
Markham is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 11,434 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,364 per year, which is 30% below 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 Markham features a median home value of $119,500, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Markham one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,689, 45% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,257 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (2,701 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (1,052 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Markham shows an unemployment rate of 10.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Markham have an average one-way commute time of 34.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.6% of Markham 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 15.6% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 7.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Markham, IL
Compared to national averages, Markham has a median household income of $52,364 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $119,500, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,689 is 45% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Markham's income is 30% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 28% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Markham, IL?
Markham offers affordable housing with a median home value of $119,500, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,364) that falls below the national average. However, Markham’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Markham has a population of 11,434 with a median age of 33.7 years. Compare Markham with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Markham
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schiller Park | 11,454 | $67,473 | $276,200 | Compare |
| Pontiac | 11,483 | $59,579 | $110,200 | Compare |
| River Forest | 11,489 | $148,711 | $676,900 | Compare |
| Plano | 11,626 | $83,102 | $221,100 | Compare |
| Taylorville | 11,149 | $52,720 | $106,300 | Compare |
| Burr Ridge | 11,119 | $154,508 | $694,800 | Compare |
| Columbia | 11,063 | $107,922 | $290,100 | Compare |
| Waterloo | 11,055 | $92,005 | $237,900 | 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 Markham With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Markham
What is the population of Markham, IL?
The population of Markham, IL is 11,434 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Markham?
The median household income in Markham, IL is $52,364 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Markham?
The median home value in Markham, IL is $119,500, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Markham?
The median monthly rent in Markham, IL is $1,689, which is 45% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Markham?
The unemployment rate in Markham, IL is 10.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Markham, IL a good place to live?
Markham offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 11,434 and a median age of 33.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Markham, IL?
15.6% of residents in Markham 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 Markham?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Markham, IL: median home value is $119,500 (51% below national), median rent is $1,689/month, and median household income is $52,364. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Markham?
The poverty rate in Markham, IL is 18.9%, 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 Markham, IL?
Markham's population is 15.6% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 70.1% two or more races. 7.7% of residents are foreign-born.