South Elgin, IL
Population 23,984 · Illinois
About South Elgin, IL
South Elgin is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 23,984 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $123,744 per year, which is 65% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in South Elgin features a median home value of $296,100, which is 21% above the national median of $244,900. This positions South Elgin in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,619, 39% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,614 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (6,867 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (1,580 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Elgin shows an unemployment rate of 2.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South Elgin have an average one-way commute time of 28.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
38.4% of South Elgin residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 18.3% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 1.8% Asian residents, with 16.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Elgin, IL
Compared to national averages, South Elgin has a median household income of $123,744 (65% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $296,100, which is 21% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,619 is 39% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, South Elgin's income is 65% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 79% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in South Elgin, IL?
South Elgin offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $123,744, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%, and a well-educated community where 38.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 6.4%, better than the national average.
South Elgin has a population of 23,984 with a median age of 39.2 years. Compare South Elgin with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near South Elgin
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elmwood Park | 23,982 | $84,121 | $325,000 | Compare |
| Rolling Meadows | 23,981 | $100,424 | $299,700 | Compare |
| Collinsville | 24,126 | $65,170 | $157,700 | Compare |
| Westmont | 24,201 | $83,622 | $369,100 | Compare |
| Freeport | 23,636 | $48,181 | $86,100 | Compare |
| Kankakee | 24,384 | $45,119 | $105,500 | Compare |
| Zion | 24,466 | $62,574 | $179,100 | Compare |
| Belvidere | 24,510 | $62,462 | $153,100 | 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 South Elgin With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Elgin
What is the population of South Elgin, IL?
The population of South Elgin, IL is 23,984 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in South Elgin?
The median household income in South Elgin, IL is $123,744 per year, which is 65% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Elgin?
The median home value in South Elgin, IL is $296,100, which is 21% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Elgin?
The median monthly rent in South Elgin, IL is $1,619, which is 39% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Elgin?
The unemployment rate in South Elgin, IL is 2.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is South Elgin, IL a good place to live?
South Elgin offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 23,984 and a median age of 39.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is South Elgin, IL?
38.4% of residents in South Elgin aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in South Elgin?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Elgin, IL: median home value is $296,100 (21% above national), median rent is $1,619/month, and median household income is $123,744. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in South Elgin?
The poverty rate in South Elgin, IL is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is South Elgin, IL?
South Elgin's population is 18.3% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 1.8% Asian, and 5.8% two or more races. 16.3% of residents are foreign-born.