Metcalf, IL
Population 151 · Illinois
About Metcalf, IL
Metcalf is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 151 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,405 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.8 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 Metcalf features a median home value of $55,000, which is 78% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Metcalf one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 93 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (54 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (22 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Metcalf shows an unemployment rate of 29.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 4.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Metcalf have an average one-way commute time of 40.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
1.6% of Metcalf 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, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 5.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Metcalf, IL
Compared to national averages, Metcalf has a median household income of $54,405 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $55,000, which is 78% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Metcalf's income is 28% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 67% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Metcalf, IL?
Metcalf offers affordable housing with a median home value of $55,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a low poverty rate of 4.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,405) that falls below the national average. However, Metcalf’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Metcalf has a population of 151 with a median age of 49.8 years. Compare Metcalf 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 Metcalf
What is the population of Metcalf, IL?
The population of Metcalf, IL is 151 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 Metcalf?
The median household income in Metcalf, IL is $54,405 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Metcalf?
The median home value in Metcalf, IL is $55,000, which is 78% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Metcalf?
The median monthly rent in Metcalf, IL is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Metcalf?
The unemployment rate in Metcalf, IL is 29.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Metcalf, IL a good place to live?
Metcalf offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 151 and a median age of 49.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Metcalf, IL?
1.6% of residents in Metcalf 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 Metcalf?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Metcalf, IL: median home value is $55,000 (78% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $54,405. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Metcalf?
The poverty rate in Metcalf, IL is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Metcalf, IL?
Metcalf's population is 0.0% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 5.3% of residents are foreign-born.