Blue Island, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,741
-7.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,489/yr
-2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,997
-3.7% year-over-year change

Blue Island population

How many people live in Blue Island

Blue Island is home to 21,741 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Blue Island locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
21,741
-7.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
11,043
Female
49.2%
10,698
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,043 50.8% -6.1%
Female 10,698 49.2% -8.2%
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 Blue Island is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.4% are children under 15, then 15.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.3% of the population, while another 26.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.4%
15 to 24
15.2%
25 to 44
29.3%
45 to 64
26.5%
Over 65
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,142 14.4% -25.1%
15 to 24 3,316 15.2% -11.4%
25 to 44 6,362 29.3% -0.6%
45 to 64 5,764 26.5% -6.2%
Over 65 3,157 14.5% 7.7%
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 Blue Island, 76.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 24.6% of locals are Caucasian, 30.8% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 28.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 14.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.3%
Non-citizens
13.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,709 76.8% -10.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,030 9.3% -5.1%
Non-citizens 3,002 13.8% 11.9%
Racial breakdown
White
24.6%
Black or African American
30.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
14.9%
Other
28.2%
Value Percent
White 5,349 24.6%
Black or African American 6,704 30.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 56 0.3%
Asian 183 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 66 0.3%
Two or more races 3,241 14.9%
Other 6,142 28.2%

Households in Blue Island

A peek inside Blue Island households

Blue Island has 8,464 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 57.4% are families, while the remaining 42.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,464
-2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,604
Family households
4,860
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,604 42.6% 3.3%
Family households 4,860 57.4% -6.0%
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 Blue Island

The housing landscape of Blue Island

Blue Island's housing consists of 8,997 units, with 44.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 5.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,997
-3.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,990 44.4%
1 unit, attached 399 4.4%
2 units 697 7.8%
3 or 4 units 740 8.2%
5 to 9 units 1,277 14.2%
10 to 19 units 967 10.8%
20 to 49 units 235 2.6%
50 or more units 218 2.4%
Mobile home 474 5.3%
Homes built since 2020
8
-74.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Blue Island

In Blue Island, the median construction year is 1961. About 28.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,591 28.8% 3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 740 8.2% -19.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,086 12.1% -7.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,407 15.6% 41.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 862 9.6% -23.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 729 8.1% 11.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 291 3.2% -47.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,017 11.3% -6.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 266 3% -9.5%
Built in 2020 or later 8 0.1% -74.2%
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.

Blue Island occupancy rates

Out of the 8,464 occupied housing units in Blue Island, 51.8% are owner-occupied, while 48.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,464
-2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,081
Owner occupied
4,383
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,081 48.2% -7.5%
Owner occupied 4,383 51.8% 3.1%
Unoccupied housing units
5.9%
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.

Blue Island housing costs

Housing costs in Blue Island come to a median of $1,120 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,072.

Median housing costs per month
$1,120/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 Blue Island
$1,072/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 Blue Island

Blue Island education at a glance

About 40.8% of the population in Blue Island went to high school, while 23.2% pursued college studies. Another 5.7% earned an associate degree and 12.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,007 11.6% 10.6%
High school diploma 7,069 40.8% -4.1%
College diploma 4,027 23.2% -15.8%
Associate degree 991 5.7% 1.9%
Bachelor's degree 2,099 12.1% 9.8%
Graduate degree 1,137 6.6% -3.1%
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 Blue Island

How much people earn in Blue Island

The average annual household income in Blue Island was $73,197 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,489, reflecting a -2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Blue Island
$73,197/year
-3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Blue Island
$59,489/year
-2.4% year-over-year change

Blue Island income by age

In Blue Island, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,147. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $64,846 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,570, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,521 in earnings. Overall, 83% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,570 N/A
25 - 44 $63,147 -7.2%
45 - 64 $64,846 -17.9%
Over 65 $40,521 1.6%
Above poverty level
17,933
Below poverty level
3,685
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,933 83% -7.8%
Below poverty level 3,685 17% 0.5%

Average renter income in Blue Island

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Blue Island, their median household income was $39,711 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$39,711
Rent-to-income ratio
32.4%
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 Blue Island

Workforce and job types in Blue Island

The job market in Blue Island is powered by 9,820 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.1% run their own businesses, 75.6% are employed by private companies, and 10.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,820
-10.8% year-over-year change
White collar
6,655
Blue collar
3,165
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,655 67.8% -9.7%
Blue collar 3,165 32.2% -13.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
75.6%
Governmental workers
10.2%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 697 7.1% -18.5%
Private companies 7,427 75.6% -9.3%
Governmental workers 999 10.2% -18.7%
Not for profit companies 697 7.1% -5.8%
Unemployment rate
15.5%
23.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Blue Island stands at 15.5%, 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 Blue Island

How people get around in Blue Island

In Blue Island, the average commute time is 29 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
29 min
4.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,552 80.5% -15.9%
Taxicab 106 1.1% 381.8%
Bus or trolleybus 235 2.5% -50.2%
Subway or elevated 137 1.5% N/A
Railroad 188 2% -21.0%
Bicycle 68 0.7% 74.4%
Walk 116 1.2% -10.8%
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 Blue Island by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60406 23,327 9,057 $56,557 $71,580

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FAQs about Blue Island demographics 

What is the total population of Blue Island?

Blue Island has a total population of 21,741 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 -7.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Blue Island?

The gender ratio in Blue Island is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (11,043 residents)
  • 49.2% females (10,698 residents)

What is the median age in Blue Island?

The median age in Blue Island is 38.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Blue Island?

The age distribution in Blue Island is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.4% (3,142 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.2% (3,316 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.3% (6,362 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.5% (5,764 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.5% (3,157 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Blue Island?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Blue Island is as follows:
  • White: 24.6% (5,349 residents)
  • Black or African American: 30.8% (6,704 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (56 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (183 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (66 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.9% (3,241 residents)
  • Other: 28.2% (6,142 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.8% of the population in Blue Island.

How many housing units are there in Blue Island?

There are 8,997 housing units in Blue Island, reflecting a -3.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Blue Island has a total of 8,464 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Blue Island?

Blue Island has a median household income of $59,489, representing a -2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Blue Island?

The employment rate is 84.5% in Blue Island, with a workforce of 9,820 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.8% (6,655 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.2% (3,165 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (697 residents)
  • Private companies: 75.6% (7,427 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.2% (999 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (697 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