Oswego, IL
Population 35,463 · Illinois
About Oswego, IL
Oswego is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 35,463 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $119,881 per year, which is 60% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.7 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Oswego features a median home value of $319,000, which is 30% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Oswego in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,823, 57% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 12,198 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (10,609 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (1,488 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Oswego shows an unemployment rate of 2.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Oswego have an average one-way commute time of 30.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
43.5% of Oswego residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 13.3% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Black or African American, and 0.9% Asian residents, with 13.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Oswego, IL
Compared to national averages, Oswego has a median household income of $119,881 (60% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $319,000, which is 30% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,823 is 57% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Oswego's income is 60% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 92% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Oswego, IL?
Oswego offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $119,881, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%, and a well-educated community where 43.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 2.3%, better than the national average.
Oswego has a population of 35,463 with a median age of 39.7 years. Compare Oswego with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Oswego
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Addison | 35,470 | $87,587 | $318,000 | Compare |
| Calumet City | 35,253 | $53,991 | $133,600 | Compare |
| Northbrook | 34,642 | $155,321 | $644,100 | Compare |
| Rock Island | 36,758 | $57,292 | $118,400 | Compare |
| Hanover Park | 36,850 | $92,263 | $260,900 | Compare |
| Woodridge | 33,889 | $97,263 | $345,200 | Compare |
| Carpentersville | 37,544 | $86,327 | $225,200 | Compare |
| Glendale Heights | 32,864 | $82,232 | $249,000 | 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.
Compare Oswego With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Oswego
What is the population of Oswego, IL?
The population of Oswego, IL is 35,463 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Oswego?
The median household income in Oswego, IL is $119,881 per year, which is 60% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Oswego?
The median home value in Oswego, 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 Oswego?
The median monthly rent in Oswego, IL is $1,823, which is 57% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Oswego?
The unemployment rate in Oswego, IL is 2.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Oswego, IL a good place to live?
Oswego offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 35,463 and a median age of 39.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Oswego, IL?
43.5% of residents in Oswego aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Oswego?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Oswego, IL: median home value is $319,000 (30% above national), median rent is $1,823/month, and median household income is $119,881. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Oswego?
The poverty rate in Oswego, IL is 2.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Oswego, IL?
Oswego's population is 13.3% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Black or African American, 0.9% Asian, and 11.8% two or more races. 13.8% of residents are foreign-born.