Polo, IL
Population 2,495 · Illinois
About Polo, IL
Polo is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,495 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,976 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.2 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 Polo features a median home value of $108,500, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Polo one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $777, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,154 total housing units, 63% are owner-occupied (626 units) and 37% are renter-occupied (370 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Polo shows an unemployment rate of 4.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 21.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Polo have an average one-way commute time of 29 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.2% of Polo 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 0.3% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 2.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Polo, IL
Compared to national averages, Polo has a median household income of $52,976 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $108,500, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $777 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Polo's income is 29% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 35% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Polo, IL?
Polo offers affordable housing with a median home value of $108,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $777/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,976) that falls below the national average. However, Polo’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Polo has a population of 2,495 with a median age of 32.2 years. Compare Polo with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Polo
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Altamont | 2,500 | $76,198 | $132,200 | Compare |
| Carthage | 2,508 | $75,179 | $115,600 | Compare |
| Henry | 2,478 | $63,894 | $115,900 | Compare |
| Seneca | 2,525 | $91,065 | $206,400 | Compare |
| Carrollton | 2,528 | $64,464 | $114,100 | Compare |
| Richmond | 2,530 | $70,379 | $225,800 | Compare |
| Brighton | 2,536 | $74,327 | $123,000 | Compare |
| Oakwood Hills | 2,454 | $113,125 | $273,200 | 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 Polo With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Polo
What is the population of Polo, IL?
The population of Polo, IL is 2,495 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 Polo?
The median household income in Polo, IL is $52,976 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Polo?
The median home value in Polo, IL is $108,500, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Polo?
The median monthly rent in Polo, IL is $777, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Polo?
The unemployment rate in Polo, IL is 4.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Polo, IL a good place to live?
Polo offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,495 and a median age of 32.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Polo, IL?
16.2% of residents in Polo 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 Polo?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Polo, IL: median home value is $108,500 (56% below national), median rent is $777/month, and median household income is $52,976. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Polo?
The poverty rate in Polo, IL is 21.2%, 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 Polo, IL?
Polo's population is 0.3% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.2% of residents are foreign-born.