Watson, IL
Population 616 · Illinois
About Watson, IL
Watson is a small community located in Illinois with a population of 616 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $68,625 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.4 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Watson features a median home value of $93,900, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Watson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $750, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 244 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (190 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (41 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Watson shows an unemployment rate of 3.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 20.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Watson have an average one-way commute time of 17.4 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
12.1% of Watson 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 0.0% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Watson, IL
Compared to national averages, Watson has a median household income of $68,625 (9% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $93,900, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $750 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Watson's income is 9% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 43% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Watson, IL?
Watson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $93,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $750/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.6%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 17.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($68,625) that falls below the national average. However, Watson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Watson has a population of 616 with a median age of 41.4 years. Compare Watson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Watson
What is the population of Watson, IL?
The population of Watson, IL is 616 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 Watson?
The median household income in Watson, IL is $68,625 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Watson?
The median home value in Watson, IL is $93,900, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Watson?
The median monthly rent in Watson, IL is $750, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Watson?
The unemployment rate in Watson, IL is 3.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Watson, IL a good place to live?
Watson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 616 and a median age of 41.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Watson, IL?
12.1% of residents in Watson 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 Watson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Watson, IL: median home value is $93,900 (62% below national), median rent is $750/month, and median household income is $68,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Watson?
The poverty rate in Watson, IL is 20.6%, 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 Watson, IL?
Watson's population is 0.0% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.