University Park, IL
Population 7,109 · Illinois
About University Park, IL
University Park is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 7,109 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,580 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.4 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 University Park features a median home value of $137,800, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes University Park one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,530, 32% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,576 total housing units, 61% are owner-occupied (1,421 units) and 39% are renter-occupied (908 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in University Park shows an unemployment rate of 16.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in University Park have an average one-way commute time of 34.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.3% of University Park 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 3.2% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Black or African American, and 1.1% Asian residents, with 4.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in University Park, IL
Compared to national averages, University Park has a median household income of $65,580 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $137,800, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,530 is 32% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, University Park's income is 13% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 17% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in University Park, IL?
University Park offers affordable housing with a median home value of $137,800, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,580) that falls below the national average. However, University Park’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
University Park has a population of 7,109 with a median age of 32.4 years. Compare University Park with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near University Park
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sandwich | 7,121 | $77,027 | $239,600 | Compare |
| Marengo | 7,123 | $72,586 | $206,100 | Compare |
| Benton | 7,076 | $51,349 | $85,100 | Compare |
| West Frankfort | 7,156 | $48,143 | $72,500 | Compare |
| Greenville | 7,159 | $52,727 | $119,800 | Compare |
| Clinton | 7,012 | $55,960 | $101,200 | Compare |
| Robinson | 7,005 | $67,591 | $102,600 | Compare |
| Stickney | 6,957 | $67,307 | $236,000 | 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 University Park With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about University Park
What is the population of University Park, IL?
The population of University Park, IL is 7,109 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 University Park?
The median household income in University Park, IL is $65,580 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in University Park?
The median home value in University Park, IL is $137,800, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in University Park?
The median monthly rent in University Park, IL is $1,530, which is 32% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in University Park?
The unemployment rate in University Park, IL is 16.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is University Park, IL a good place to live?
University Park offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 7,109 and a median age of 32.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is University Park, IL?
24.3% of residents in University Park 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 University Park?
Key cost-of-living indicators for University Park, IL: median home value is $137,800 (44% below national), median rent is $1,530/month, and median household income is $65,580. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in University Park?
The poverty rate in University Park, IL is 14.5%, 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 University Park, IL?
University Park's population is 3.2% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Black or African American, 1.1% Asian, and 82.1% two or more races. 4.9% of residents are foreign-born.