Oblong, IL
Population 1,617 · Illinois
About Oblong, IL
Oblong is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,617 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,702 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.8 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 Oblong features a median home value of $78,400, which is 68% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Oblong one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $532, 54% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 786 total housing units, 65% are owner-occupied (466 units) and 35% are renter-occupied (247 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Oblong shows an unemployment rate of 4.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 22.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Oblong have an average one-way commute time of 17.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
9.5% of Oblong 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 0.2% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Oblong, IL
Compared to national averages, Oblong has a median household income of $52,702 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $78,400, which is 68% below the national median. Monthly rent at $532 is 54% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Oblong's income is 30% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 53% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Oblong, IL?
Oblong offers affordable housing with a median home value of $78,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $532/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,702) that falls below the national average. However, Oblong’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Oblong has a population of 1,617 with a median age of 34.8 years. Compare Oblong with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Oblong
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Jacob | 1,617 | $107,188 | $192,400 | Compare |
| Crainville | 1,614 | $64,559 | $181,700 | Compare |
| Norris City | 1,613 | $37,778 | $80,800 | Compare |
| Roxana | 1,626 | $66,125 | $101,800 | Compare |
| Rome | 1,628 | $95,263 | $155,700 | Compare |
| Delavan | 1,600 | $69,038 | $118,400 | Compare |
| Fisher | 1,600 | $92,697 | $177,300 | Compare |
| Ina | 1,600 | $46,250 | $88,500 | 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 Oblong With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Oblong
What is the population of Oblong, IL?
The population of Oblong, IL is 1,617 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 Oblong?
The median household income in Oblong, IL is $52,702 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Oblong?
The median home value in Oblong, IL is $78,400, which is 68% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Oblong?
The median monthly rent in Oblong, IL is $532, which is 54% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Oblong?
The unemployment rate in Oblong, IL is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Oblong, IL a good place to live?
Oblong offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,617 and a median age of 34.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Oblong, IL?
9.5% of residents in Oblong 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 Oblong?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Oblong, IL: median home value is $78,400 (68% below national), median rent is $532/month, and median household income is $52,702. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Oblong?
The poverty rate in Oblong, IL is 22.2%, 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 Oblong, IL?
Oblong's population is 0.2% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 1.2% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.