Ruma, IL
Population 438 · Illinois
About Ruma, IL
Ruma is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 438 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $71,875 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.8 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 Ruma features a median home value of $125,000, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ruma one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $933, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 158 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (118 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (31 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ruma shows an unemployment rate of 1.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 10.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Ruma have an average one-way commute time of 29.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.3% of Ruma 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, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 7.1% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 2.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ruma, IL
Compared to national averages, Ruma has a median household income of $71,875 (4% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $125,000, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $933 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Ruma's income is 4% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 25% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Ruma, IL?
Ruma offers affordable housing with a median home value of $125,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $933/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.9%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 10.5%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($71,875) that falls below the national average. However, Ruma’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ruma has a population of 438 with a median age of 35.8 years. Compare Ruma with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Ruma
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hartsburg | 441 | $72,500 | $89,500 | Compare |
| Olive Branch | 441 | $27,250 | $58,700 | Compare |
| Scales Mound | 441 | $66,765 | $158,000 | Compare |
| Elkhart | 442 | $98,750 | $123,200 | Compare |
| Lakewood Shores | 433 | $76,500 | $181,300 | Compare |
| Prairie du Rocher | 432 | $60,313 | $85,400 | Compare |
| Sidell | 447 | $61,250 | $73,600 | Compare |
| Ashley | 428 | $47,031 | $70,700 | 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 Ruma With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ruma
What is the population of Ruma, IL?
The population of Ruma, IL is 438 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Ruma?
The median household income in Ruma, IL is $71,875 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ruma?
The median home value in Ruma, IL is $125,000, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ruma?
The median monthly rent in Ruma, IL is $933, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ruma?
The unemployment rate in Ruma, IL is 1.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Ruma, IL a good place to live?
Ruma offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 438 and a median age of 35.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Ruma, IL?
10.3% of residents in Ruma 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 Ruma?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ruma, IL: median home value is $125,000 (49% below national), median rent is $933/month, and median household income is $71,875. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ruma?
The poverty rate in Ruma, IL is 10.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Ruma, IL?
Ruma's population is 0.0% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 7.1% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.1% of residents are foreign-born.