Pawnee, IL
Population 2,706 · Illinois
About Pawnee, IL
Pawnee is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,706 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,977 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.4 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 Pawnee features a median home value of $151,100, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Pawnee in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $852, 27% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,281 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (915 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (246 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Pawnee shows an unemployment rate of 3.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 13.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Pawnee have an average one-way commute time of 28 minutes.
Education & Demographics
29.6% of Pawnee 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 1.5% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Pawnee, IL
Compared to national averages, Pawnee has a median household income of $77,977 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $151,100, which is 38% below the national median. Monthly rent at $852 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Pawnee's income is 4% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 9% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Pawnee, IL?
Pawnee offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,977, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $151,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $852/month.
Pawnee has a population of 2,706 with a median age of 45.4 years. Compare Pawnee with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Pawnee
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Venetian Village | 2,704 | $91,786 | $216,900 | Compare |
| Oakbrook Terrace | 2,714 | $70,586 | $315,600 | Compare |
| Mount Morris | 2,679 | $38,162 | $117,600 | Compare |
| Hamilton | 2,738 | $53,487 | $105,600 | Compare |
| Trenton | 2,673 | $80,227 | $179,200 | Compare |
| Rushville | 2,668 | $57,589 | $91,000 | Compare |
| McLeansboro | 2,750 | $46,589 | $72,200 | Compare |
| Davis Junction | 2,656 | $103,615 | $198,200 | 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 Pawnee With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Pawnee
What is the population of Pawnee, IL?
The population of Pawnee, IL is 2,706 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 Pawnee?
The median household income in Pawnee, IL is $77,977 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Pawnee?
The median home value in Pawnee, IL is $151,100, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Pawnee?
The median monthly rent in Pawnee, IL is $852, which is 27% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Pawnee?
The unemployment rate in Pawnee, IL is 3.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Pawnee, IL a good place to live?
Pawnee offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,706 and a median age of 45.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Pawnee, IL?
29.6% of residents in Pawnee 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 Pawnee?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Pawnee, IL: median home value is $151,100 (38% below national), median rent is $852/month, and median household income is $77,977. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Pawnee?
The poverty rate in Pawnee, IL is 13.0%, 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 Pawnee, IL?
Pawnee's population is 1.5% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 0.7% of residents are foreign-born.