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

Total population
73,010
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,562/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
35,016
-0.4% year-over-year change

Greater Decatur population

How many people live in Greater Decatur

Greater Decatur is home to 73,010 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Greater Decatur locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
73,010
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
34,974
Female
52.1%
38,036
Value Percent YoY change
Male 34,974 47.9% -0.7%
Female 38,036 52.1% -1.1%
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 Greater Decatur is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.2% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.2%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 13,989 19.2% -1.9%
15 to 24 8,927 12.2% -0.5%
25 to 44 16,966 23.2% -0.6%
45 to 64 17,864 24.5% -2.6%
Over 65 15,264 20.9% 1.6%
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 Greater Decatur, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.4% of locals are Caucasian, 15.2% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 70,792 97% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,164 1.6% 2.7%
Non-citizens 1,054 1.4% -5.0%
Racial breakdown
White
75.4%
Black or African American
15.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 55,025 75.4%
Black or African American 11,075 15.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 71 0.1%
Asian 1,192 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 28 0%
Two or more races 4,826 6.6%
Other 792 1.1%

Households in Greater Decatur

A peek inside Greater Decatur households

Greater Decatur has 30,835 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.7% are families, while the remaining 42.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
30,835
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
13,056
Family households
17,779
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 13,056 42.3% 6.0%
Family households 17,779 57.7% -3.6%
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 Greater Decatur

The housing landscape of Greater Decatur

Greater Decatur's housing consists of 35,016 units, with 79.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 2.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
35,016
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 27,834 79.5%
1 unit, attached 771 2.2%
2 units 283 0.8%
3 or 4 units 900 2.6%
5 to 9 units 1,327 3.8%
10 to 19 units 1,258 3.6%
20 to 49 units 617 1.8%
50 or more units 1,280 3.7%
Mobile home 744 2.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
120
15.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Decatur

In Greater Decatur, the median construction year is 1966. About 20.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,074 20.2% 9.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,535 7.2% -7.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,730 16.4% -8.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,662 13.3% -5.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,034 17.2% 2.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,648 7.6% -1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,201 9.1% 5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,222 6.4% 0.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 789 2.2% -8.7%
Built in 2020 or later 120 0.3% 15.4%
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.

Greater Decatur occupancy rates

Out of the 30,835 occupied housing units in Greater Decatur, 71.3% are owner-occupied, while 28.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
30,835
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,849
Owner occupied
21,986
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,849 28.7% 0.2%
Owner occupied 21,986 71.3% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
11.9%
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.

Greater Decatur housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Decatur come to a median of $901 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $840.

Median housing costs per month
$901/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 Greater Decatur
$840/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 Greater Decatur

Greater Decatur education at a glance

About 42.1% of the population in Greater Decatur went to high school, while 23.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 15.8% 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 1,065 1.9% 3.1%
High school diploma 23,660 42.1% -0.6%
College diploma 13,315 23.7% -2.0%
Associate degree 4,938 8.8% 0.3%
Bachelor's degree 8,892 15.8% -1.2%
Graduate degree 4,273 7.6% 1.4%
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 Greater Decatur

How much people earn in Greater Decatur

The average annual household income in Greater Decatur was $103,657 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,562, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Decatur
$103,657/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Decatur
$84,562/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Greater Decatur income by age

In Greater Decatur, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,250. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,876 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,895, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,972 in earnings. Overall, 85.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,895 18.1%
25 - 44 $90,250 3.7%
45 - 64 $95,876 7.0%
Over 65 $54,972 5.7%
Above poverty level
60,501
Below poverty level
9,909
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 60,501 85.9% -1.0%
Below poverty level 9,909 14.1% 1.1%

Employment in Greater Decatur

Workforce and job types in Greater Decatur

73.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.1% run their own businesses, 71.8% are employed by private companies, and 12.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
23,449
Blue collar
8,355
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 23,449 73.7% -0.9%
Blue collar 8,355 26.3% 2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
71.8%
Governmental workers
12.6%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,259 7.1% 10.3%
Private companies 22,847 71.8% 0.6%
Governmental workers 3,995 12.6% -5.2%
Not for profit companies 2,704 8.5% -5.6%

Transportation in Greater Decatur

How people get around in Greater Decatur

In Greater Decatur, the average commute time is 84 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 96.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
84 min
-15.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 27,418 96.6% -1.8%
Taxicab 1 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 256 0.9% 4.1%
Railroad 8 0% N/A
Motorcycle 57 0.2% 67.7%
Bicycle 52 0.2% 92.6%
Walk 584 2.1% 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 Greater Decatur by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61756 2,542 918 $86,375 $106,164
62521 32,665 14,256 $66,337 $85,923
62522 15,185 6,102 $50,669 $74,578
62526 30,483 13,988 $49,062 $66,843
62532 40 30 $0 $59,007
62535 3,502 1,252 $112,000 $165,408
62537 272 80 $70,455 $78,453
62539 1,412 564 $82,750 $94,879
62501 2,324 1,012 $95,889 $131,790
62514 297 146 $53,333 $79,920

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FAQs about Greater Decatur demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Decatur?

Greater Decatur has a total population of 73,010 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 -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Decatur?

The gender ratio in Greater Decatur is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (34,974 residents)
  • 52.1% females (38,036 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Decatur?

The median age in Greater Decatur is 41.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Decatur?

The age distribution in Greater Decatur is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.2% (13,989 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (8,927 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (16,966 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (17,864 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (15,264 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Decatur?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Decatur is as follows:
  • White: 75.4% (55,025 residents)
  • Black or African American: 15.2% (11,075 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (71 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (1,192 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (28 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (4,826 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (792 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Greater Decatur.

How many housing units are there in Greater Decatur?

There are 35,016 housing units in Greater Decatur, reflecting a -0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Greater Decatur has a total of 30,835 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Decatur?

Greater Decatur has a median household income of $84,562, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Decatur?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.7% (23,449 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.3% (8,355 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (2,259 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.8% (22,847 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.6% (3,995 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (2,704 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