McCook, IL
Population 299 · Illinois
About McCook, IL
McCook is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 299 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $74,464 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.4 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 McCook features a median home value of $319,000, which is 30% above the national median of $244,900. This positions McCook in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,338, 15% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 119 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (72 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (33 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in McCook shows an unemployment rate of 1.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 7.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in McCook have an average one-way commute time of 21.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.3% of McCook 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 47.8% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 14.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in McCook, IL
Compared to national averages, McCook has a median household income of $74,464 (1% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $319,000, which is 30% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,338 is 15% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, McCook's income is 1% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 92% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in McCook, IL?
McCook offers a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.7%, and a low poverty rate of 7.0%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($74,464) that falls below the national average. However, McCook’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McCook has a population of 299 with a median age of 31.4 years. Compare McCook with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about McCook
What is the population of McCook, IL?
The population of McCook, IL is 299 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Illinois.
What is the median household income in McCook?
The median household income in McCook, IL is $74,464 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McCook?
The median home value in McCook, IL is $319,000, which is 30% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in McCook?
The median monthly rent in McCook, IL is $1,338, which is 15% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McCook?
The unemployment rate in McCook, IL is 1.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is McCook, IL a good place to live?
McCook offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 299 and a median age of 31.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is McCook, IL?
10.3% of residents in McCook 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 McCook?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McCook, IL: median home value is $319,000 (30% above national), median rent is $1,338/month, and median household income is $74,464. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in McCook?
The poverty rate in McCook, IL is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is McCook, IL?
McCook's population is 47.8% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 2.7% two or more races. 14.4% of residents are foreign-born.