Seneca, IL
Population 2,525 · Illinois
About Seneca, IL
Seneca is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 2,525 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $91,065 per year, which is 21% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.2 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 Seneca features a median home value of $206,400, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Seneca in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $988, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 971 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (710 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (217 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Seneca shows an unemployment rate of 4.2%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 19.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Seneca have an average one-way commute time of 29.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.9% of Seneca 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 4.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.4% Asian residents, with 1.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Seneca, IL
Compared to national averages, Seneca has a median household income of $91,065 (21% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $206,400, which is 16% below the national median. Monthly rent at $988 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Seneca's income is 21% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 25% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Seneca, IL?
Seneca offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $91,065, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $206,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $988/month.
Seneca has a population of 2,525 with a median age of 35.2 years. Compare Seneca with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Seneca
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrollton | 2,528 | $64,464 | $114,100 | Compare |
| Richmond | 2,530 | $70,379 | $225,800 | Compare |
| Brighton | 2,536 | $74,327 | $123,000 | Compare |
| Tilton | 2,537 | $53,246 | $71,700 | Compare |
| Carthage | 2,508 | $75,179 | $115,600 | Compare |
| Galva | 2,543 | $55,446 | $77,800 | Compare |
| Kenilworth | 2,543 | $250,001 | $1,409,800 | Compare |
| Altamont | 2,500 | $76,198 | $132,200 | 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 Seneca With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Seneca
What is the population of Seneca, IL?
The population of Seneca, IL is 2,525 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 Seneca?
The median household income in Seneca, IL is $91,065 per year, which is 21% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Seneca?
The median home value in Seneca, IL is $206,400, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Seneca?
The median monthly rent in Seneca, IL is $988, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Seneca?
The unemployment rate in Seneca, IL is 4.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Seneca, IL a good place to live?
Seneca offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,525 and a median age of 35.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Seneca, IL?
12.9% of residents in Seneca 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 Seneca?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Seneca, IL: median home value is $206,400 (16% below national), median rent is $988/month, and median household income is $91,065. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Seneca?
The poverty rate in Seneca, IL is 19.4%, 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 Seneca, IL?
Seneca's population is 4.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, and 1.1% two or more races. 1.9% of residents are foreign-born.