Zion, IL
Population 24,466 · Illinois
About Zion, IL
Zion is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 24,466 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $62,574 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34 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 Zion features a median home value of $179,100, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Zion in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,139, 2% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 9,689 total housing units, 56% are owner-occupied (5,023 units) and 44% are renter-occupied (3,948 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Zion shows an unemployment rate of 6.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Zion have an average one-way commute time of 29.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.1% of Zion 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 30.7% White, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, 4.1% Black or African American, and 6.9% Asian residents, with 18.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Zion, IL
Compared to national averages, Zion has a median household income of $62,574 (17% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $179,100, which is 27% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,139 is 2% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Zion's income is 17% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 8% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Zion, IL?
Zion offers affordable housing with a median home value of $179,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,139/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($62,574) that falls below the national average. However, Zion’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Zion has a population of 24,466 with a median age of 34 years. Compare Zion with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Zion
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belvidere | 24,510 | $62,462 | $153,100 | Compare |
| Melrose Park | 24,513 | $64,740 | $265,000 | Compare |
| Homer Glen | 24,516 | $128,546 | $400,000 | Compare |
| Kankakee | 24,384 | $45,119 | $105,500 | Compare |
| Morton Grove | 24,687 | $106,078 | $377,000 | Compare |
| Westmont | 24,201 | $83,622 | $369,100 | Compare |
| Collinsville | 24,126 | $65,170 | $157,700 | Compare |
| South Elgin | 23,984 | $123,744 | $296,100 | 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 Zion With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Zion
What is the population of Zion, IL?
The population of Zion, IL is 24,466 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 Zion?
The median household income in Zion, IL is $62,574 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Zion?
The median home value in Zion, IL is $179,100, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Zion?
The median monthly rent in Zion, IL is $1,139, which is 2% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Zion?
The unemployment rate in Zion, IL is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Zion, IL a good place to live?
Zion offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 24,466 and a median age of 34, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Zion, IL?
16.1% of residents in Zion 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 Zion?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Zion, IL: median home value is $179,100 (27% below national), median rent is $1,139/month, and median household income is $62,574. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Zion?
The poverty rate in Zion, IL is 16.5%, 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 Zion, IL?
Zion's population is 30.7% White, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, 4.1% Black or African American, 6.9% Asian, and 25.3% two or more races. 18.3% of residents are foreign-born.