New Salem, IL
Population 131 · Illinois
About New Salem, IL
New Salem is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 131 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 23.5 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 New Salem features a median home value of $118,800, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes New Salem one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $667, 43% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 58 total housing units, 60% are owner-occupied (27 units) and 40% are renter-occupied (18 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in New Salem shows an unemployment rate of 5.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in New Salem have an average one-way commute time of 22 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.5% of New Salem 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, 0.0% 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 New Salem, IL
Compared to national averages, New Salem has a median household income of $0 (100% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $118,800, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $667 is 43% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, New Salem's income is 100% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 28% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in New Salem, IL?
New Salem offers affordable housing with a median home value of $118,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $667/month, and short commute times averaging just 22 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($0) that falls below the national average. However, New Salem’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
New Salem has a population of 131 with a median age of 23.5 years. Compare New Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near New Salem
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Mill Creek | 131 | $71,875 | $525,000 | Compare |
| Old Shawneetown | 131 | $30,694 | $14,600 | Compare |
| LaPlace | 130 | $67,125 | $80,500 | Compare |
| Ridott | 130 | $65,417 | $127,400 | Compare |
| Tennessee | 132 | $65,000 | $70,000 | Compare |
| Donnellson | 133 | $0 | $46,000 | Compare |
| Mount Erie | 133 | $28,750 | $90,700 | Compare |
| Radom | 129 | $53,958 | $85,000 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about New Salem
What is the population of New Salem, IL?
The population of New Salem, IL is 131 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 New Salem?
The median household income in New Salem, IL is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in New Salem?
The median home value in New Salem, IL is $118,800, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in New Salem?
The median monthly rent in New Salem, IL is $667, which is 43% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in New Salem?
The unemployment rate in New Salem, IL is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is New Salem, IL a good place to live?
New Salem offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 131 and a median age of 23.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is New Salem, IL?
21.5% of residents in New Salem 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 New Salem?
Key cost-of-living indicators for New Salem, IL: median home value is $118,800 (51% below national), median rent is $667/month, and median household income is $0. The home-value-to-income ratio is Infinityx, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in New Salem?
The poverty rate in New Salem, IL is 18.3%, 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 New Salem, IL?
New Salem's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.