South Jacksonville, IL
Population 3,255 · Illinois
About South Jacksonville, IL
South Jacksonville is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 3,255 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,438 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.3 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 South Jacksonville features a median home value of $137,100, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes South Jacksonville one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $631, 46% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,779 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (1,136 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (541 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Jacksonville shows an unemployment rate of 9.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 8.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South Jacksonville have an average one-way commute time of 16.9 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
24.3% of South Jacksonville 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 2.9% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 1.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Jacksonville, IL
Compared to national averages, South Jacksonville has a median household income of $53,438 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $137,100, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $631 is 46% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, South Jacksonville's income is 29% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 17% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in South Jacksonville, IL?
South Jacksonville offers affordable housing with a median home value of $137,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $631/month, and a low poverty rate of 8.9%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 16.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,438) that falls below the national average. However, South Jacksonville’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Jacksonville has a population of 3,255 with a median age of 48.3 years. Compare South Jacksonville with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near South Jacksonville
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry Valley | 3,268 | $74,766 | $222,400 | Compare |
| Long Lake | 3,219 | $100,824 | $185,400 | Compare |
| Pistakee Highlands | 3,214 | $92,304 | $198,700 | Compare |
| Le Roy | 3,177 | $87,500 | $165,600 | Compare |
| Havana | 3,176 | $55,428 | $95,200 | Compare |
| Sleepy Hollow | 3,165 | $147,407 | $365,200 | Compare |
| Virden | 3,165 | $78,750 | $98,800 | Compare |
| Holiday Shores | 3,162 | $98,265 | $231,300 | 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 Jacksonville With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Jacksonville
What is the population of South Jacksonville, IL?
The population of South Jacksonville, IL is 3,255 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 South Jacksonville?
The median household income in South Jacksonville, IL is $53,438 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Jacksonville?
The median home value in South Jacksonville, IL is $137,100, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Jacksonville?
The median monthly rent in South Jacksonville, IL is $631, which is 46% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Jacksonville?
The unemployment rate in South Jacksonville, IL is 9.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Jacksonville, IL a good place to live?
South Jacksonville offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,255 and a median age of 48.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is South Jacksonville, IL?
24.3% of residents in South Jacksonville 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 South Jacksonville?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Jacksonville, IL: median home value is $137,100 (44% below national), median rent is $631/month, and median household income is $53,438. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in South Jacksonville?
The poverty rate in South Jacksonville, IL is 8.9%, 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 Jacksonville, IL?
South Jacksonville's population is 2.9% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 3.4% two or more races. 1.0% of residents are foreign-born.