Sheldon, IL
Population 1,309 · Illinois
About Sheldon, IL
Sheldon is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,309 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,942 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.4 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Sheldon features a median home value of $75,200, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Sheldon one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $738, 37% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 630 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (418 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (187 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Sheldon shows an unemployment rate of 16.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Sheldon have an average one-way commute time of 20.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.9% of Sheldon 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 2.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Sheldon, IL
Compared to national averages, Sheldon has a median household income of $43,942 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $75,200, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $738 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Sheldon's income is 41% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 55% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Sheldon, IL?
Sheldon offers affordable housing with a median home value of $75,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $738/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,942) that falls below the national average. However, Sheldon’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sheldon has a population of 1,309 with a median age of 45.4 years. Compare Sheldon with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Sheldon
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Creek | 1,309 | $83,214 | $165,800 | Compare |
| Okawville | 1,312 | $84,881 | $161,400 | Compare |
| Bunker Hill | 1,305 | $72,893 | $133,700 | Compare |
| Toluca | 1,313 | $66,667 | $110,000 | Compare |
| Herscher | 1,302 | $100,833 | $198,200 | Compare |
| Gardner | 1,319 | $82,125 | $183,300 | Compare |
| Zeigler | 1,325 | $39,148 | $52,000 | Compare |
| Timberlane | 1,291 | $194,286 | $349,700 | 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 Sheldon With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Sheldon
What is the population of Sheldon, IL?
The population of Sheldon, IL is 1,309 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 Sheldon?
The median household income in Sheldon, IL is $43,942 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Sheldon?
The median home value in Sheldon, IL is $75,200, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Sheldon?
The median monthly rent in Sheldon, IL is $738, which is 37% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Sheldon?
The unemployment rate in Sheldon, IL is 16.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Sheldon, IL a good place to live?
Sheldon offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,309 and a median age of 45.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Sheldon, IL?
6.9% of residents in Sheldon 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 Sheldon?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Sheldon, IL: median home value is $75,200 (69% below national), median rent is $738/month, and median household income is $43,942. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Sheldon?
The poverty rate in Sheldon, IL is 17.4%, 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 Sheldon, IL?
Sheldon's population is 2.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.