Rock Island, IL
Population 36,758 · Illinois
About Rock Island, IL
Rock Island is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 36,758 residents. The median household income is $57,292 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Rock Island is 37.1 years.
Housing in Rock Island has a median home value of $118,400 and median monthly rent of $819. Of the 17,262 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 9,952 owner-occupied and 5,727 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Rock Island is 6.5% and the poverty rate is 20.9%. 22.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.6 minutes.
How Rock Island Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Rock Island, IL
Compared to national averages, Rock Island has a median household income of $57,292 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $118,400, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $819 is 30% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Rock Island's income is 24% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 29% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Rock Island, IL?
Rock Island offers affordable housing with a median home value of $118,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $819/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,292) that falls below the national average. However, Rock Island’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rock Island has a population of 36,758 with a median age of 37.1 years. Compare Rock Island with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Rock Island
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hanover Park | 36,850 | $92,263 | $260,900 | Compare |
| Carpentersville | 37,544 | $86,327 | $225,200 | Compare |
| Addison | 35,470 | $87,587 | $318,000 | Compare |
| Oswego | 35,463 | $119,881 | $319,000 | Compare |
| Calumet City | 35,253 | $53,991 | $133,600 | Compare |
| Urbana | 38,447 | $45,854 | $186,300 | Compare |
| Wheeling | 38,495 | $83,251 | $244,600 | Compare |
| Northbrook | 34,642 | $155,321 | $644,100 | 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 Rock Island
What is the population of Rock Island, IL?
The population of Rock Island, IL is 36,758 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Rock Island?
The median household income in Rock Island, IL is $57,292 per year.
What is the median home value in Rock Island?
The median home value in Rock Island, IL is $118,400.
What is the average rent in Rock Island?
The median monthly rent in Rock Island, IL is $819.
What is the unemployment rate in Rock Island?
The unemployment rate in Rock Island, IL is 6.5%.