Sims, IL
Population 164 · Illinois
About Sims, IL
Sims is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 164 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,708 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 57.1 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 Sims features a median home value of $46,300, which is 81% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Sims one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 111 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (78 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (9 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Sims shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 28.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Sims have an average one-way commute time of 27.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.2% of Sims 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, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 5.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Sims Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Sims, IL
Compared to national averages, Sims has a median household income of $47,708 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $46,300, which is 81% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Sims's income is 36% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 72% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Sims, IL?
Sims offers affordable housing with a median home value of $46,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,708) that falls below the national average. However, Sims’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sims has a population of 164 with a median age of 57.1 years. Compare Sims with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Sims
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curran | 164 | $55,417 | $110,400 | Compare |
| Eagle Lake | 164 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| West Union | 164 | $72,969 | $0 | Compare |
| Williamson | 164 | $56,667 | $75,500 | Compare |
| Freeman Spur | 165 | $35,000 | $66,900 | Compare |
| Galt | 163 | $108,173 | $187,500 | Compare |
| Venedy | 163 | $74,375 | $95,000 | Compare |
| Dana | 166 | $55,833 | $83,000 | 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 Sims With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Sims
What is the population of Sims, IL?
The population of Sims, IL is 164 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 Sims?
The median household income in Sims, IL is $47,708 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Sims?
The median home value in Sims, IL is $46,300, which is 81% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Sims?
The median monthly rent in Sims, IL is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Sims?
The unemployment rate in Sims, IL is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Sims, IL a good place to live?
Sims offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 164 and a median age of 57.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Sims, IL?
10.2% of residents in Sims 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 Sims?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Sims, IL: median home value is $46,300 (81% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $47,708. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Sims?
The poverty rate in Sims, IL is 28.0%, 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 Sims, IL?
Sims's population is 0.0% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.8% two or more races. 5.5% of residents are foreign-born.