River Forest, IL
Population 11,489 · Illinois
About River Forest, IL
River Forest is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 11,489 residents. The median household income is $148,711 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in River Forest is 40.1 years.
Housing in River Forest has a median home value of $676,900 and median monthly rent of $1,411. Of the 4,494 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,806 owner-occupied and 469 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in River Forest is 6.8% and the poverty rate is 2.2%. 73.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 31.3 minutes.
How River Forest Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in River Forest, IL
Compared to national averages, River Forest has a median household income of $148,711 (98% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $676,900, which is 176% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,411 is 21% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, River Forest's income is 98% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 308% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in River Forest, IL?
River Forest offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $148,711, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 73.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 2.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $676,900. However, River Forest’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
River Forest has a population of 11,489 with a median age of 40.1 years. Compare River Forest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near River Forest
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pontiac | 11,483 | $59,579 | $110,200 | Compare |
| Schiller Park | 11,454 | $67,473 | $276,200 | Compare |
| Markham | 11,434 | $52,364 | $119,500 | Compare |
| Plano | 11,626 | $83,102 | $221,100 | Compare |
| Palos Heights | 11,817 | $107,974 | $350,000 | Compare |
| Taylorville | 11,149 | $52,720 | $106,300 | Compare |
| Burr Ridge | 11,119 | $154,508 | $694,800 | Compare |
| Columbia | 11,063 | $107,922 | $290,100 | 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 River Forest
What is the population of River Forest, IL?
The population of River Forest, IL is 11,489 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in River Forest?
The median household income in River Forest, IL is $148,711 per year.
What is the median home value in River Forest?
The median home value in River Forest, IL is $676,900.
What is the average rent in River Forest?
The median monthly rent in River Forest, IL is $1,411.
What is the unemployment rate in River Forest?
The unemployment rate in River Forest, IL is 6.8%.