In the 18th century Ilvesheim exhibited a typical size for country towns in the region. Circa 1850, there was a surge in growth. After World War II the town took in more than 500 displaced persons. Between 1871 and 1961 Ilvesheim had the fastest growth rate in the district of Mannheim, reaching a then all-time high of 8196 residents in 1973. After falling to only 6862 residents in 1997, the community has rebounded with an upswing in construction of new housing.