Mason City, IL
Population 2,094 · Illinois
About Mason City, IL
Mason City is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,094 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $64,250 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.5 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 Mason City features a median home value of $92,200, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Mason City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $785, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,124 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (781 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (228 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Mason City shows an unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 16.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Mason City have an average one-way commute time of 26.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.4% of Mason City 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 0.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Mason City, IL
Compared to national averages, Mason City has a median household income of $64,250 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $92,200, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $785 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Mason City's income is 14% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 44% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Mason City, IL?
Mason City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $92,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $785/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($64,250) that falls below the national average. However, Mason City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Mason City has a population of 2,094 with a median age of 51.5 years. Compare Mason City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Mason City
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moweaqua | 2,093 | $71,364 | $110,400 | Compare |
| Albion | 2,107 | $56,172 | $93,000 | Compare |
| Lexington | 2,074 | $98,676 | $171,600 | Compare |
| Vienna | 2,115 | $39,471 | $77,400 | Compare |
| Hudson | 2,048 | $114,125 | $221,100 | Compare |
| Elwood | 2,141 | $73,640 | $224,900 | Compare |
| Merrionette Park | 2,144 | $53,623 | $152,600 | Compare |
| Athens | 2,146 | $85,000 | $164,200 | 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 Mason City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Mason City
What is the population of Mason City, IL?
The population of Mason City, IL is 2,094 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 Mason City?
The median household income in Mason City, IL is $64,250 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Mason City?
The median home value in Mason City, IL is $92,200, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Mason City?
The median monthly rent in Mason City, IL is $785, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Mason City?
The unemployment rate in Mason City, IL is 4.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Mason City, IL a good place to live?
Mason City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,094 and a median age of 51.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Mason City, IL?
20.4% of residents in Mason City 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 Mason City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Mason City, IL: median home value is $92,200 (62% below national), median rent is $785/month, and median household income is $64,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Mason City?
The poverty rate in Mason City, IL is 16.8%, 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 Mason City, IL?
Mason City's population is 0.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.9% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.