Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Jacksonville, IL
Home values in Jacksonville, IL have appreciated at 2.1% per year. Appreciation is modest, meaning total returns will be driven primarily by cash flow rather than equity gains. This is actually preferred by many investors who want predictable, income-based returns.
If Jacksonville continues appreciating at 2.1% annually, the current median of $125,000 would reach approximately $138,688 in 5 years — an equity gain of $13,688 on a property purchased at the median. With a 20% down payment of $25,000, that represents a 55% return on invested equity from appreciation alone. Combined with 5 years of NOI totaling approximately $32,374, the projected total return is $46,062 — a 184% cumulative return on the initial investment.
Population growth in Jacksonville is minimal at 0.2%. Appreciation here is more likely driven by regional economic factors, inflation, and housing stock constraints rather than population-driven demand. Higher-than-average local incomes ($62,333) support continued price growth as more residents can afford to bid up properties.
Smart investors evaluate both cash flow AND appreciation. In Jacksonville, the 5.18% cap rate provides strong ongoing cash flow, while 2.1% annual appreciation adds an equity component. The strong cash flow here means your returns are mostly realized as income rather than paper equity — a more conservative and predictable return profile.
Jacksonville vs Illinois state average and national average across key investment metrics. Jacksonville outperforms both benchmarks on cap rate.