Rome, IL
Population 1,628 · Illinois
About Rome, IL
Rome is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,628 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $95,263 per year, which is 27% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Rome features a median home value of $155,700, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Rome in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,107, 5% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 690 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (546 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (110 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rome shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Rome have an average one-way commute time of 24.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.0% of Rome 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Rome, IL
Compared to national averages, Rome has a median household income of $95,263 (27% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $155,700, which is 36% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,107 is 5% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Rome's income is 27% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 6% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Rome, IL?
Rome offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $95,263, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $155,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,107/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%, and a low poverty rate of 6.7%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.6 minutes.
Rome has a population of 1,628 with a median age of 39.9 years. Compare Rome with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Rome
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roxana | 1,626 | $66,125 | $101,800 | Compare |
| Oblong | 1,617 | $52,702 | $78,400 | Compare |
| St. Jacob | 1,617 | $107,188 | $192,400 | Compare |
| Manito | 1,640 | $67,772 | $117,500 | Compare |
| Crainville | 1,614 | $64,559 | $181,700 | Compare |
| Norris City | 1,613 | $37,778 | $80,800 | Compare |
| The Galena Territory | 1,644 | $112,386 | $311,000 | Compare |
| North Pekin | 1,647 | $79,730 | $118,100 | 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.
Compare Rome With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Rome
What is the population of Rome, IL?
The population of Rome, IL is 1,628 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 Rome?
The median household income in Rome, IL is $95,263 per year, which is 27% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rome?
The median home value in Rome, IL is $155,700, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rome?
The median monthly rent in Rome, IL is $1,107, which is 5% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rome?
The unemployment rate in Rome, IL is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Rome, IL a good place to live?
Rome offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,628 and a median age of 39.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Rome, IL?
22.0% of residents in Rome 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 Rome?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rome, IL: median home value is $155,700 (36% below national), median rent is $1,107/month, and median household income is $95,263. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Rome?
The poverty rate in Rome, IL is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Rome, IL?
Rome's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.