Bureau County, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
32,866
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,257/yr
5.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,630
-0.1% year-over-year change

Bureau County population

How many people live in Bureau County

Bureau County is home to 32,866 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Bureau County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
32,866
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
16,305
Female
50.4%
16,561
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,305 49.6% -0.2%
Female 16,561 50.4% -0.7%
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 Bureau County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 26.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
26.1%
Over 65
23.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,508 16.8% -1.9%
15 to 24 3,819 11.6% -1.1%
25 to 44 7,353 22.4% 0.3%
45 to 64 8,572 26.1% -1.9%
Over 65 7,614 23.2% 1.7%
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 Bureau County, 95.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.5% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.7%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,493 95.8% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 883 2.7% 28.5%
Non-citizens 490 1.5% -12.3%
Racial breakdown
White
87.5%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 28,743 87.5%
Black or African American 193 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 11 0%
Asian 287 0.9%
Two or more races 2,168 6.6%
Other 1,464 4.4%

Households in Bureau County

A peek inside Bureau County households

Bureau County has 14,028 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.7% are families, while the remaining 36.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,028
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,090
Family households
8,938
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,090 36.3% 0.1%
Family households 8,938 63.7% 0.2%
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 Bureau County

The housing landscape of Bureau County

Bureau County's housing consists of 15,630 units, with 85.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 2.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,630
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,350 85.4%
1 unit, attached 149 1%
2 units 405 2.6%
3 or 4 units 379 2.4%
5 to 9 units 344 2.2%
10 to 19 units 307 2%
20 to 49 units 77 0.5%
50 or more units 264 1.7%
Mobile home 354 2.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
26
100.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bureau County

In Bureau County, the median construction year is 1958. About 32.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,018 32.1% -3.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,355 8.7% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,828 11.7% 2.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,780 11.4% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,401 15.4% 4.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 847 5.4% -6.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,094 7% 5.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 835 5.3% -0.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 446 2.8% 11.8%
Built in 2020 or later 26 0.2% 100.0%
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.

Bureau County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,028 occupied housing units in Bureau County, 76.1% are owner-occupied, while 23.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,028
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,359
Owner occupied
10,669
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,359 23.9% 0.6%
Owner occupied 10,669 76.1% -0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
10.2%
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.

Bureau County housing costs

Housing costs in Bureau County come to a median of $895 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $832.

Median housing costs per month
$895/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 Bureau County
$832/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 Bureau County

Bureau County education at a glance

About 41.9% of the population in Bureau County went to high school, while 23.9% pursued college studies. Another 10.7% earned an associate degree and 14.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 779 3% 0.5%
High school diploma 10,930 41.9% -0.2%
College diploma 6,231 23.9% -1.0%
Associate degree 2,781 10.7% 0.7%
Bachelor's degree 3,729 14.3% 2.5%
Graduate degree 1,617 6.2% -4.2%
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 Bureau County

How much people earn in Bureau County

The average annual household income in Bureau County was $87,255 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,257, reflecting a +5.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bureau County
$87,255/year
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bureau County
$69,257/year
5.1% year-over-year change

Bureau County income by age

In Bureau County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,731. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $83,822 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,133, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,631 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,133 2.8%
25 - 44 $78,731 1.4%
45 - 64 $83,822 11.9%
Over 65 $52,631 4.2%
Above poverty level
28,474
Below poverty level
3,438
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,474 89.2% 1.4%
Below poverty level 3,438 10.8% -15.0%

Employment in Bureau County

Workforce and job types in Bureau County

The job market in Bureau County is powered by 16,156 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 69.4% are employed by private companies, and 14.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,156
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
10,868
Blue collar
5,288
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,868 67.3% 1.1%
Blue collar 5,288 32.7% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
69.4%
Governmental workers
14.3%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,311 8.1% -2.5%
Private companies 11,212 69.4% 1.1%
Governmental workers 2,312 14.3% 5.9%
Not for profit companies 1,321 8.2% -3.9%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
-14.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bureau County stands at 4.3%, 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 Bureau County

How people get around in Bureau County

Commuting methods vary: 90.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 14,348 90.7% 0.5%
Bus or trolleybus 10 0.1% -50.0%
Subway or elevated 10 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 36 0.2% -7.7%
Bicycle 116 0.7% 7.4%
Walk 390 2.5% -6.5%
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 Bureau County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61283 1,269 488 $64,063 $80,970
61312 392 192 $80,714 $106,410
61314 686 321 $52,039 $82,170
61315 264 104 $56,538 $70,963
61317 521 235 $58,750 $85,170
61320 727 284 $76,250 $87,171
61322 1,530 550 $65,795 $86,098
61323 125 68 $47,500 $68,462
61328 18 9 $0 $0
61329 1,356 561 $67,321 $86,671

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FAQs about Bureau County demographics 

What is the total population of Bureau County?

Bureau County has a total population of 32,866 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bureau County?

The gender ratio in Bureau County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (16,305 residents)
  • 50.4% females (16,561 residents)

What is the median age in Bureau County?

The median age in Bureau County is 44.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bureau County?

The age distribution in Bureau County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (5,508 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (3,819 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (7,353 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.1% (8,572 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.2% (7,614 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bureau County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bureau County is as follows:
  • White: 87.5% (28,743 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (193 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (11 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (287 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (2,168 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (1,464 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.8% of the population in Bureau County.

How many housing units are there in Bureau County?

There are 15,630 housing units in Bureau County, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Bureau County has a total of 14,028 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bureau County?

Bureau County has a median household income of $69,257, representing a +5.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Bureau County?

The employment rate is 95.7% in Bureau County, with a workforce of 16,156 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.3% (10,868 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.7% (5,288 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (1,311 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.4% (11,212 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.3% (2,312 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (1,321 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