Thornton, IL
Population 1,876 · Illinois
About Thornton, IL
Thornton is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 1,876 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $61,111 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44 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 Thornton features a median home value of $146,600, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Thornton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,099, 6% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 849 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (642 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (148 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Thornton shows an unemployment rate of 7.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Thornton have an average one-way commute time of 26.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.9% of Thornton 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 19.2% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 3.9% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Thornton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Thornton
What is the population of Thornton, IL?
The population of Thornton, IL is 1,876 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 Thornton?
The median household income in Thornton, IL is $61,111 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Thornton?
The median home value in Thornton, IL is $146,600, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Thornton?
The median monthly rent in Thornton, IL is $1,099, which is 6% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Thornton?
The unemployment rate in Thornton, IL is 7.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Thornton, IL a good place to live?
Thornton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,876 and a median age of 44, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Thornton, IL?
24.9% of residents in Thornton 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 Thornton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Thornton, IL: median home value is $146,600 (40% below national), median rent is $1,099/month, and median household income is $61,111. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Thornton?
The poverty rate in Thornton, IL is 15.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Thornton, IL?
Thornton's population is 19.2% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 35.3% two or more races. 3.9% of residents are foreign-born.