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

Total population
208,741
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,683/yr
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
95,115
0.8% year-over-year change

Champaign County population

How many people live in Champaign County

Champaign County is home to 208,741 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Champaign County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
208,741
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
103,870
Female
50.2%
104,871
Value Percent YoY change
Male 103,870 49.8% 1.3%
Female 104,871 50.2% 1.3%
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 Champaign County is 31, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 26.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 19.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
26.2%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
19.1%
Over 65
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 32,873 15.8% -0.2%
15 to 24 54,625 26.2% 3.8%
25 to 44 52,374 25.1% 0.6%
45 to 64 39,885 19.1% -1.2%
Over 65 28,984 13.9% 3.3%
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 Champaign County, 84.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 64.2% of locals are Caucasian, 13.4% are African American and 11.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.2%
Non-citizens
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 175,799 84.2% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 12,899 6.2% -0.9%
Non-citizens 20,043 9.6% 9.7%
Racial breakdown
White
64.2%
Black or African American
13.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
11.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.8%
Other
1.9%
Value Percent
White 134,024 64.2%
Black or African American 28,079 13.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 381 0.2%
Asian 23,898 11.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 43 0%
Two or more races 18,298 8.8%
Other 4,018 1.9%

Households in Champaign County

A peek inside Champaign County households

Champaign County has 85,472 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.3% are families, while the remaining 49.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
85,472
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
42,470
Family households
43,002
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 42,470 49.7% 3.9%
Family households 43,002 50.3% 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 Champaign County

The housing landscape of Champaign County

Champaign County's housing consists of 95,115 units, with 52.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.1% 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 3.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
95,115
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 49,750 52.3%
1 unit, attached 4,822 5.1%
2 units 2,411 2.5%
3 or 4 units 3,713 3.9%
5 to 9 units 7,147 7.5%
10 to 19 units 9,260 9.7%
20 to 49 units 6,512 6.8%
50 or more units 8,525 9%
Mobile home 2,961 3.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 14 0%
Homes built since 2020
959
35.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Champaign County

In Champaign County, the median construction year is 1981. About 12.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 11,501 12.1% 6.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,150 3.3% 4.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 7,722 8.1% -5.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 10,359 10.9% 3.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 13,275 14% 0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,710 11.3% -2.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,284 11.9% -3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 13,860 14.6% -0.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12,295 12.9% 5.1%
Built in 2020 or later 959 1% 35.8%
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.

Champaign County occupancy rates

Out of the 85,472 occupied housing units in Champaign County, 54% are owner-occupied, while 46% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
85,472
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
39,299
Owner occupied
46,173
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 39,299 46% 0.8%
Owner occupied 46,173 54% 3.1%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Champaign County housing costs

Housing costs in Champaign County come to a median of $1,125 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,051.

Median housing costs per month
$1,125/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 Champaign County
$1,051/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 Champaign County

Champaign County education at a glance

About 24.4% of the population in Champaign County went to high school, while 29.6% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 18.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,352 1.4% 3.4%
High school diploma 41,220 24.4% 0.8%
College diploma 49,919 29.6% 6.0%
Associate degree 11,820 7% -1.3%
Bachelor's degree 31,662 18.8% -0.9%
Graduate degree 31,905 18.9% -0.9%
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 Champaign County

How much people earn in Champaign County

The average annual household income in Champaign County was $91,413 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,683, reflecting a +0.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Champaign County
$91,413/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Champaign County
$63,683/year
0.9% year-over-year change

Champaign County income by age

In Champaign County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,525. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,724 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $15,004, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,919 in earnings. Overall, 80.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $15,004 -10.0%
25 - 44 $69,525 -0.3%
45 - 64 $95,724 2.3%
Over 65 $65,919 2.4%
Above poverty level
154,435
Below poverty level
36,693
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 154,435 80.8% -0.4%
Below poverty level 36,693 19.2% 6.8%

Employment in Champaign County

Workforce and job types in Champaign County

The job market in Champaign County is powered by 100,362 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 52.5% are employed by private companies, and 29.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
100,362
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
83,959
Blue collar
16,403
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 83,959 83.7% 0.6%
Blue collar 16,403 16.3% 0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
52.5%
Governmental workers
29.3%
Not for profit companies
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8,560 8.5% 6.8%
Private companies 52,663 52.5% -0.0%
Governmental workers 29,444 29.3% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 9,695 9.7% -4.3%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
-4.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Champaign 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 Champaign County

How people get around in Champaign County

In Champaign County, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
-2.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 71,125 71.9% -1.6%
Taxicab 20 0% -41.2%
Bus or trolleybus 3,380 3.4% -7.8%
Motorcycle 282 0.3% 72.0%
Bicycle 1,323 1.3% -7.8%
Walk 6,851 6.9% -2.6%
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 Champaign County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60949 564 201 $60,750 $68,025
60957 5,596 2,341 $69,014 $87,053
61801 27,891 11,189 $36,180 $64,399
61802 20,293 9,717 $61,620 $82,675
61810 265 129 $90,625 $124,988
61815 335 127 $72,031 $80,503
61816 377 148 $70,833 $91,098
61820 40,599 16,033 $27,539 $50,897
61821 28,611 12,405 $70,715 $100,230
61822 27,642 11,258 $99,006 $131,654

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FAQs about Champaign County demographics 

What is the total population of Champaign County?

Champaign County has a total population of 208,741 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 +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Champaign County?

The gender ratio in Champaign County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (103,870 residents)
  • 50.2% females (104,871 residents)

What is the median age in Champaign County?

The median age in Champaign County is 30.7.

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

The age distribution in Champaign County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (32,873 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 26.2% (54,625 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (52,374 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.1% (39,885 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.9% (28,984 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Champaign County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Champaign County is as follows:
  • White: 64.2% (134,024 residents)
  • Black or African American: 13.4% (28,079 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (381 residents)
  • Asian: 11.4% (23,898 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (43 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.8% (18,298 residents)
  • Other: 1.9% (4,018 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.2% of the population in Champaign County.

How many housing units are there in Champaign County?

There are 95,115 housing units in Champaign County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Champaign County has a total of 85,472 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Champaign County?

Champaign County has a median household income of $63,683, representing a +0.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Champaign County, with a workforce of 100,362 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.7% (83,959 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.3% (16,403 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (8,560 residents)
  • Private companies: 52.5% (52,663 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 29.3% (29,444 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.7% (9,695 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