Pekin, IL
Population 31,812 · Illinois
About Pekin, IL
Pekin is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 31,812 residents. The median household income is $58,355 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Pekin is 41.3 years.
Housing in Pekin has a median home value of $118,200 and median monthly rent of $792. Of the 14,733 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 9,033 owner-occupied and 4,494 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Pekin is 6.8% and the poverty rate is 13.0%. 18.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Pekin, IL
Compared to national averages, Pekin has a median household income of $58,355 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $118,200, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $792 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Pekin's income is 22% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 29% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Pekin, IL?
Pekin offers affordable housing with a median home value of $118,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $792/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,355) that falls below the national average. However, Pekin’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Pekin has a population of 31,812 with a median age of 41.3 years. Compare Pekin with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Pekin
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mundelein | 31,632 | $107,608 | $285,600 | Compare |
| Elk Grove Village | 32,132 | $95,216 | $334,400 | Compare |
| O'Fallon | 32,139 | $102,793 | $274,100 | Compare |
| St. Charles | 32,733 | $115,350 | $369,700 | Compare |
| North Chicago | 30,772 | $56,815 | $147,800 | Compare |
| Glendale Heights | 32,864 | $82,232 | $249,000 | Compare |
| Gurnee | 30,486 | $121,410 | $331,100 | Compare |
| Niles | 30,262 | $78,563 | $350,900 | 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 Pekin
What is the population of Pekin, IL?
The population of Pekin, IL is 31,812 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Pekin?
The median household income in Pekin, IL is $58,355 per year.
What is the median home value in Pekin?
The median home value in Pekin, IL is $118,200.
What is the average rent in Pekin?
The median monthly rent in Pekin, IL is $792.
What is the unemployment rate in Pekin?
The unemployment rate in Pekin, IL is 6.8%.