West Salem, IL
Population 769 · Illinois
About West Salem, IL
West Salem is a small community in Illinois with a population of 769 residents. The median household income is $50,500 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in West Salem is 38.3 years.
Housing in West Salem has a median home value of $65,800 and median monthly rent of $805. Of the 464 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 279 owner-occupied and 43 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in West Salem is 12.1% and the poverty rate is 11.5%. 13.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in West Salem, IL
Compared to national averages, West Salem has a median household income of $50,500 (33% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $65,800, which is 73% below the national median. Monthly rent at $805 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, West Salem's income is 33% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 60% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in West Salem, IL?
West Salem offers affordable housing with a median home value of $65,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $805/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.5%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,500) that falls below the national average. However, West Salem’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Salem has a population of 769 with a median age of 38.3 years. Compare West Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near West Salem
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kirkwood | 769 | $70,385 | $89,500 | Compare |
| Lake Petersburg | 769 | $124,643 | $336,200 | Compare |
| Bartelso | 768 | $93,929 | $192,000 | Compare |
| Coulterville | 770 | $57,813 | $76,100 | Compare |
| Oneida | 770 | $66,615 | $107,400 | Compare |
| Shannon | 772 | $59,375 | $114,100 | Compare |
| Ashkum | 765 | $67,500 | $136,500 | Compare |
| Bradford | 773 | $52,386 | $71,800 | 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.
Compare West Salem With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Salem
What is the population of West Salem, IL?
The population of West Salem, IL is 769 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in West Salem?
The median household income in West Salem, IL is $50,500 per year.
What is the median home value in West Salem?
The median home value in West Salem, IL is $65,800.
What is the average rent in West Salem?
The median monthly rent in West Salem, IL is $805.
What is the unemployment rate in West Salem?
The unemployment rate in West Salem, IL is 12.1%.