Athens, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,102
-2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,192/yr
-4.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
984
2.6% year-over-year change

Athens population

How many people live in Athens

Athens is home to 2,102 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.3% of Athens locals are male, and 55.7% are female.

Total population
2,102
-2.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.3%
932
Female
55.7%
1,170
Value Percent YoY change
Male 932 44.3% -3.1%
Female 1,170 55.7% -1.2%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Athens is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.6% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.9% of the population, while another 23.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.6%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
28.9%
45 to 64
23.9%
Over 65
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 453 21.6% 5.6%
15 to 24 302 14.4% -20.3%
25 to 44 607 28.9% 1.3%
45 to 64 503 23.9% 0.4%
Over 65 237 11.3% -0.4%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Athens, 96% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2.7% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,018 96% -2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 55 2.6% 22.2%
Non-citizens 29 1.4% 0.0%
Racial breakdown
White
89.2%
Black or African American
2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1.3%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 1,876 89.2%
Black or African American 56 2.7%
Asian 27 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 27 1.3%
Two or more races 116 5.5%

Households in Athens

A peek inside Athens households

Athens has 891 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.9% are families, while the remaining 35.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
891
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
313
Family households
578
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 313 35.1% 13.0%
Family households 578 64.9% -4.8%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Athens

The housing landscape of Athens

Athens's housing consists of 984 units, with 86.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
984
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 852 86.6%
1 unit, attached 40 4.1%
2 units 16 1.6%
3 or 4 units 33 3.4%
5 to 9 units 16 1.6%
Mobile home 27 2.7%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Athens

In Athens, the median construction year is 1980. About 19.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 191 19.4% 12.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 62 6.3% 29.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 53 5.4% -10.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 60 6.1% 7.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 129 13.1% -3.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 67 6.8% -14.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 180 18.3% -4.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 162 16.5% 24.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 80 8.1% -15.8%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Athens occupancy rates

Out of the 891 occupied housing units in Athens, 72.4% are owner-occupied, while 27.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
891
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
246
Owner occupied
645
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 246 27.6% 9.8%
Owner occupied 645 72.4% -2.3%
Unoccupied housing units
9.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Athens housing costs

Housing costs in Athens come to a median of $1,053 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $855.

Median housing costs per month
$1,053/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Athens
$855/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Athens

Athens education at a glance

About 43.1% of the population in Athens went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 15.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2 0.1% -33.3%
High school diploma 667 43.1% 9.9%
College diploma 356 23% -19.1%
Associate degree 171 11% 16.3%
Bachelor's degree 236 15.2% 2.6%
Graduate degree 117 7.6% -17.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Athens

How much people earn in Athens

The average annual household income in Athens was $85,341 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -11.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,192, reflecting a -4.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Athens
$85,341/year
-11.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Athens
$81,192/year
-4.5% year-over-year change

Athens income by age

In Athens, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,893. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $88,036 overall. Overall, 90.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $90,893 -0.2%
45 - 64 $88,036 -11.5%
Over 65 $46,250 -12.7%
Above poverty level
1,888
Below poverty level
200
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,888 90.4% -2.2%
Below poverty level 200 9.6% -1.0%

Average renter income in Athens

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Athens, their median household income was $34,531 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,531
Rent-to-income ratio
29.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Athens

Workforce and job types in Athens

The job market in Athens is powered by 1,112 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 2.9% run their own businesses, 56% are employed by private companies, and 29.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,112
-4.7% year-over-year change
White collar
915
Blue collar
197
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 915 82.3% -5.7%
Blue collar 197 17.7% 0.0%
Employer type
Self employees
2.9%
Private companies
56%
Governmental workers
29.2%
Not for profit companies
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 32 2.9% 3.2%
Private companies 623 56% -10.7%
Governmental workers 325 29.2% 6.9%
Not for profit companies 132 11.9% -1.5%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
-30.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Athens stands at 5.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Athens

How people get around in Athens

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 994 89.4% -6.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Athens by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
62613 3,598 1,539 $86,675 $92,742

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FAQs about Athens demographics 

What is the total population of Athens?

Athens has a total population of 2,102 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -2.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Athens?

The gender ratio in Athens is as follows:
  • 44.3% males (932 residents)
  • 55.7% females (1,170 residents)

What is the median age in Athens?

The median age in Athens is 34.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Athens?

The age distribution in Athens is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.6% (453 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (302 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.9% (607 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.9% (503 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.3% (237 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Athens?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Athens is as follows:
  • White: 89.2% (1,876 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.7% (56 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (27 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1.3% (27 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (116 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

What percentage of the population in Athens are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96% of the population in Athens.

How many housing units are there in Athens?

There are 984 housing units in Athens, reflecting a +2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Athens and what is the average household size?

Athens has a total of 891 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Athens?

Athens has a median household income of $81,192, representing a -4.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Athens?

The employment rate is 94.3% in Athens, with a workforce of 1,112 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.3% (915 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.7% (197 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 2.9% (32 residents)
  • Private companies: 56% (623 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 29.2% (325 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.9% (132 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025