Ottawa, IL
Population 18,714 · Illinois
About Ottawa, IL
Ottawa is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 18,714 residents. The median household income is $73,011 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Ottawa is 40.3 years.
Housing in Ottawa has a median home value of $144,500 and median monthly rent of $922. Of the 8,394 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 5,241 owner-occupied and 2,316 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Ottawa is 6.3% and the poverty rate is 14.4%. 21.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.5 minutes.
Cost of Living in Ottawa, IL
Compared to national averages, Ottawa has a median household income of $73,011 (3% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $144,500, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $922 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Ottawa's income is 3% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 13% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Ottawa, IL?
Ottawa offers affordable housing with a median home value of $144,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $922/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($73,011) that falls below the national average. However, Ottawa’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ottawa has a population of 18,714 with a median age of 40.3 years. Compare Ottawa with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Ottawa
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matteson | 18,681 | $98,617 | $251,400 | Compare |
| Alsip | 18,650 | $67,557 | $208,700 | Compare |
| Round Lake | 18,588 | $108,965 | $257,400 | Compare |
| Bensenville | 18,576 | $78,298 | $259,300 | Compare |
| North Aurora | 18,375 | $111,781 | $323,900 | Compare |
| Bellwood | 18,373 | $76,990 | $219,600 | Compare |
| East St. Louis | 18,278 | $30,992 | $52,700 | Compare |
| Deerfield | 19,185 | $189,705 | $608,600 | 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 Ottawa
What is the population of Ottawa, IL?
The population of Ottawa, IL is 18,714 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Ottawa?
The median household income in Ottawa, IL is $73,011 per year.
What is the median home value in Ottawa?
The median home value in Ottawa, IL is $144,500.
What is the average rent in Ottawa?
The median monthly rent in Ottawa, IL is $922.
What is the unemployment rate in Ottawa?
The unemployment rate in Ottawa, IL is 6.3%.