Thornton, IL
Population 1,876 · Illinois
About Thornton, IL
Thornton is a small community in Illinois with a population of 1,876 residents. The median household income is $61,111 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Thornton is 44 years.
Housing in Thornton has a median home value of $146,600 and median monthly rent of $1,099. Of the 849 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 642 owner-occupied and 148 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Thornton is 7.3% and the poverty rate is 15.9%. 24.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 26.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Thornton, IL
Compared to national averages, Thornton has a median household income of $61,111 (19% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $146,600, which is 40% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,099 is 6% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Thornton's income is 19% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 12% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Thornton, IL?
Thornton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $146,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,099/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,111) that falls below the national average. However, Thornton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Thornton has a population of 1,876 with a median age of 44 years. Compare Thornton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Thornton
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mackinaw | 1,869 | $71,875 | $159,200 | Compare |
| Stockton | 1,867 | $52,800 | $88,400 | Compare |
| Orion | 1,849 | $88,500 | $168,300 | Compare |
| Knollwood | 1,907 | $133,452 | $372,500 | Compare |
| Minonk | 1,909 | $62,000 | $120,600 | Compare |
| Jerome | 1,910 | $55,777 | $116,700 | Compare |
| Jonesboro | 1,912 | $58,309 | $114,400 | Compare |
| Southern View | 1,838 | $53,774 | $104,700 | 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 Thornton
What is the population of Thornton, IL?
The population of Thornton, IL is 1,876 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Thornton?
The median household income in Thornton, IL is $61,111 per year.
What is the median home value in Thornton?
The median home value in Thornton, IL is $146,600.
What is the average rent in Thornton?
The median monthly rent in Thornton, IL is $1,099.
What is the unemployment rate in Thornton?
The unemployment rate in Thornton, IL is 7.3%.