Sterling, IL
Population 14,670 · Illinois
About Sterling, IL
Sterling is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 14,670 residents. The median household income is $52,647 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Sterling is 42.6 years.
Housing in Sterling has a median home value of $107,800 and median monthly rent of $780. Of the 7,385 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 4,112 owner-occupied and 2,547 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sterling is 4.8% and the poverty rate is 16.4%. 18.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 17.5 minutes.
Cost of Living in Sterling, IL
Compared to national averages, Sterling has a median household income of $52,647 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $107,800, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $780 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Sterling's income is 30% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 35% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Sterling, IL?
Sterling offers affordable housing with a median home value of $107,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $780/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,647) that falls below the national average. However, Sterling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sterling has a population of 14,670 with a median age of 42.6 years. Compare Sterling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Sterling
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hickory Hills | 14,718 | $85,541 | $278,400 | Compare |
| Swansea | 14,603 | $84,367 | $211,700 | Compare |
| Chatham | 14,740 | $106,030 | $231,900 | Compare |
| Antioch | 14,751 | $118,635 | $299,700 | Compare |
| Morris | 14,775 | $72,357 | $244,400 | Compare |
| Mount Vernon | 14,492 | $52,751 | $89,700 | Compare |
| Lindenhurst | 14,365 | $127,837 | $275,400 | Compare |
| Macomb | 15,006 | $39,753 | $99,800 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Sterling
What is the population of Sterling, IL?
The population of Sterling, IL is 14,670 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, IL is $52,647 per year.
What is the median home value in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling, IL is $107,800.
What is the average rent in Sterling?
The median monthly rent in Sterling, IL is $780.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling, IL is 4.8%.