South Pekin, IL
Population 949 · Illinois
About South Pekin, IL
South Pekin is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 949 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $64,750 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 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 South Pekin features a median home value of $106,000, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. This makes South Pekin one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $741, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 380 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (272 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (73 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Pekin shows an unemployment rate of 6.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South Pekin have an average one-way commute time of 25.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.6% of South Pekin 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 2.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.4% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Pekin, IL
Compared to national averages, South Pekin has a median household income of $64,750 (14% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $106,000, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $741 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, South Pekin's income is 14% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 36% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in South Pekin, IL?
South Pekin offers affordable housing with a median home value of $106,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $741/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.7%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($64,750) that falls below the national average. However, South Pekin’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Pekin has a population of 949 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare South Pekin with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near South Pekin
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
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 Pekin With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Pekin
What is the population of South Pekin, IL?
The population of South Pekin, IL is 949 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 South Pekin?
The median household income in South Pekin, IL is $64,750 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Pekin?
The median home value in South Pekin, IL is $106,000, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Pekin?
The median monthly rent in South Pekin, IL is $741, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Pekin?
The unemployment rate in South Pekin, IL is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Pekin, IL a good place to live?
South Pekin offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 949 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is South Pekin, IL?
8.6% of residents in South Pekin 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 Pekin?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Pekin, IL: median home value is $106,000 (57% below national), median rent is $741/month, and median household income is $64,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in South Pekin?
The poverty rate in South Pekin, IL is 11.7%, 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 Pekin, IL?
South Pekin's population is 2.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.4% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.