Wood River, IL
Population 10,315 · Illinois
About Wood River, IL
Wood River is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 10,315 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,960 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Wood River features a median home value of $103,200, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wood River one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $915, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,975 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (3,069 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (1,389 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wood River shows an unemployment rate of 5.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 13.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wood River have an average one-way commute time of 25.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.5% of Wood River 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 2.2% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 0.9% Asian residents, with 1.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wood River, IL
Compared to national averages, Wood River has a median household income of $65,960 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $103,200, which is 58% below the national median. Monthly rent at $915 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Wood River's income is 12% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 38% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Wood River, IL?
Wood River offers affordable housing with a median home value of $103,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $915/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,960) that falls below the national average. However, Wood River’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wood River has a population of 10,315 with a median age of 37.9 years. Compare Wood River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Wood River
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan | 10,315 | $128,375 | $314,400 | Compare |
| Highland | 10,268 | $77,886 | $185,800 | Compare |
| Lyons | 10,391 | $64,209 | $243,500 | Compare |
| River Grove | 10,482 | $74,793 | $244,700 | Compare |
| Riverdale | 10,515 | $45,709 | $104,800 | Compare |
| Pingree Grove | 10,576 | $119,880 | $298,300 | Compare |
| Crestwood | 10,622 | $68,686 | $187,700 | Compare |
| Winfield | 9,982 | $143,102 | $363,400 | 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 Wood River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Wood River
What is the population of Wood River, IL?
The population of Wood River, IL is 10,315 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Wood River?
The median household income in Wood River, IL is $65,960 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wood River?
The median home value in Wood River, IL is $103,200, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wood River?
The median monthly rent in Wood River, IL is $915, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wood River?
The unemployment rate in Wood River, IL is 5.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wood River, IL a good place to live?
Wood River offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 10,315 and a median age of 37.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Wood River, IL?
15.5% of residents in Wood River 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 Wood River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wood River, IL: median home value is $103,200 (58% below national), median rent is $915/month, and median household income is $65,960. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wood River?
The poverty rate in Wood River, IL is 13.1%, 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 Wood River, IL?
Wood River's population is 2.2% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 0.9% Asian, and 6.6% two or more races. 1.7% of residents are foreign-born.