Central Illinois, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
705,784
% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,787/yr
% year-over-year change
Housing units
323,778
% year-over-year change

Central Illinois population

How many people live in Central Illinois

Central Illinois is home to 705,784 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Central Illinois locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
705,784
% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
345,887
Female
51%
359,897
Value Percent YoY change
Male 345,887 49% N/A
Female 359,897 51% N/A
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 Central Illinois is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 14.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
14.3%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
18.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 129,288 18.3% N/A
15 to 24 100,680 14.3% N/A
25 to 44 174,891 24.8% N/A
45 to 64 170,502 24.2% N/A
Over 65 130,423 18.5% N/A
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 Central Illinois, 94.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80% of locals are Caucasian, 9.4% are African American and 2.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 669,036 94.8% N/A
Non-U.S.-born citizens 18,256 2.6% N/A
Non-citizens 18,492 2.6% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
80%
Black or African American
9.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 564,721 80%
Black or African American 66,583 9.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,542 0.2%
Asian 20,691 2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 292 0%
Two or more races 41,264 5.8%
Other 10,691 1.5%

Households in Central Illinois

A peek inside Central Illinois households

Central Illinois has 296,070 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.1% are families, while the remaining 40.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
296,070
% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
120,992
Family households
175,078
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 120,992 40.9% N/A
Family households 175,078 59.1% N/A
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 Central Illinois

The housing landscape of Central Illinois

Central Illinois's housing consists of 323,778 units, with 74.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.6% 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
323,778
% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 240,312 74.2%
1 unit, attached 11,701 3.6%
2 units 6,485 2%
3 or 4 units 9,990 3.1%
5 to 9 units 14,880 4.6%
10 to 19 units 14,657 4.5%
20 to 49 units 8,160 2.5%
50 or more units 9,993 3.1%
Mobile home 7,584 2.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,890
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Central Illinois

In Central Illinois, the median construction year is 1962. About 18.6% 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. Then, 10.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 60,108 18.6% N/A
Built between 1940 and 1949 20,317 6.3% N/A
Built between 1950 and 1959 40,623 12.6% N/A
Built between 1960 and 1969 39,316 12.1% N/A
Built between 1970 and 1979 55,085 17% N/A
Built between 1980 and 1989 24,012 7.4% N/A
Built between 1990 and 1999 33,172 10.2% N/A
Built between 2000 and 2009 34,409 10.6% N/A
Built between 2010 and 2019 14,845 4.6% N/A
Built in 2020 or later 1,890 0.6% N/A
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.

Central Illinois occupancy rates

Out of the 296,070 occupied housing units in Central Illinois, 71.1% are owner-occupied, while 28.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
296,070
% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
85,533
Owner occupied
210,537
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 85,533 28.9% N/A
Owner occupied 210,537 71.1% N/A
Unoccupied housing units
8.6%
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.

Central Illinois housing costs

Housing costs in Central Illinois come to a median of $962 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $886.

Median housing costs per month
$962/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 Central Illinois
$886/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 Central Illinois

Central Illinois education at a glance

About 34.8% of the population in Central Illinois went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.6% earned an associate degree and 20.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 9,436 1.7% N/A
High school diploma 191,063 34.8% N/A
College diploma 128,429 23.4% N/A
Associate degree 52,456 9.6% N/A
Bachelor's degree 111,411 20.3% N/A
Graduate degree 55,660 10.2% N/A
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 Central Illinois

How much people earn in Central Illinois

The average annual household income in Central Illinois was $99,065 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Average household income in Central Illinois
$99,065/year
% year-over-year change
Median household income in Central Illinois
$78,787/year
% year-over-year change

Central Illinois income by age

In Central Illinois, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,380. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,032 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,857, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,010 in earnings. Overall, 87.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,857 N/A
25 - 44 $90,380 N/A
45 - 64 $93,032 N/A
Over 65 $57,010 N/A
Above poverty level
586,756
Below poverty level
85,326
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 586,756 87.3% N/A
Below poverty level 85,326 12.7% N/A

Employment in Central Illinois

Workforce and job types in Central Illinois

The job market in Central Illinois is powered by 332,973 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 67.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
332,973
White collar
262,447
Blue collar
70,525
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 262,447 78.8% N/A
Blue collar 70,525 21.2% N/A
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
67.9%
Governmental workers
13.7%
Not for profit companies
10.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 25,262 7.6% N/A
Private companies 226,178 67.9% N/A
Governmental workers 45,538 13.7% N/A
Not for profit companies 35,995 10.8% N/A
Unemployment rate
4.6%

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Central Illinois stands at 4.6%, 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 Central Illinois

How people get around in Central Illinois

In Central Illinois, the average commute time is 692 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 96.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
692 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 273,731 96.1% N/A
Taxicab 302 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 2,304 0.8% N/A
Railroad 24 0% N/A
Ferryboat 17 0% N/A
Motorcycle 248 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 660 0.2% N/A
Walk 7,617 2.7% N/A
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 Central Illinois by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61369 1,594 627 $68,708 $86,194
61375 989 444 $81,293 $87,733
61377 1,441 699 $57,321 $67,482
61421 1,231 494 $65,833 $91,371
61424 20 10 $0 $0
61426 41 18 $0 $0
61449 339 205 $51,635 $78,224
61451 272 120 $44,167 $63,902
61479 95 34 $135,313 $115,465
61483 1,801 722 $63,558 $97,161

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FAQs about Central Illinois demographics 

What is the total population of Central Illinois?

Central Illinois has a total population of 705,784 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 % compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Central Illinois?

The gender ratio in Central Illinois is as follows:
  • 49% males (345,887 residents)
  • 51% females (359,897 residents)

What is the median age in Central Illinois?

The median age in Central Illinois is 42.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Central Illinois?

The age distribution in Central Illinois is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (129,288 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.3% (100,680 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (174,891 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (170,502 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.5% (130,423 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Central Illinois?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Central Illinois is as follows:
  • White: 80% (564,721 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.4% (66,583 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (1,542 residents)
  • Asian: 2.9% (20,691 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (292 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (41,264 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (10,691 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.8% of the population in Central Illinois.

How many housing units are there in Central Illinois?

There are 323,778 housing units in Central Illinois, reflecting a % change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Central Illinois has a total of 296,070 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Central Illinois?

Central Illinois has a median household income of $78,787, representing a % shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Central Illinois?

The employment rate is 95.4% in Central Illinois, with a workforce of 332,973 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.8% (262,447 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.2% (70,525 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (25,262 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.9% (226,178 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.7% (45,538 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.8% (35,995 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