Chicago, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,711,226
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$77,902/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,277,054
0.7% year-over-year change

Chicago population

How many people live in Chicago

Chicago is home to 2,711,226 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Chicago locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
2,711,226
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
1,317,618
Female
51.4%
1,393,608
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,317,618 48.6% 0.3%
Female 1,393,608 51.4% 0.0%
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 Chicago is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.3% of the population, while another 22.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
34.3%
45 to 64
22.9%
Over 65
13.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 434,159 16% -2.6%
15 to 24 352,409 13% 1.4%
25 to 44 929,946 34.3% 0.6%
45 to 64 620,047 22.9% -0.2%
Over 65 374,665 13.8% 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 Chicago, 77.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36% of locals are Caucasian, 27.9% are African American and 7.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 13.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.9%
Non-citizens
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,093,058 77.2% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 321,836 11.9% 0.0%
Non-citizens 296,332 10.9% 2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
36%
Black or African American
27.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
7.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
13.9%
Other
13.8%
Value Percent
White 977,223 36%
Black or African American 755,488 27.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 29,720 1.1%
Asian 198,842 7.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,433 0%
Two or more races 375,822 13.9%
Other 372,698 13.8%

Households in Chicago

A peek inside Chicago households

Chicago has 1,160,205 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50% are families, while the remaining 50% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,160,205
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
580,428
Family households
579,777
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 580,428 50% 2.5%
Family households 579,777 50% -0.1%
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 Chicago

The housing landscape of Chicago

Chicago's housing consists of 1,277,054 units, with 25.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.5% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,277,054
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 327,433 25.6%
1 unit, attached 45,247 3.5%
2 units 166,670 13%
3 or 4 units 183,307 14.4%
5 to 9 units 147,096 11.5%
10 to 19 units 59,325 4.6%
20 to 49 units 84,270 6.6%
50 or more units 260,274 20.4%
Mobile home 3,061 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 371 0%
Homes built since 2020
10,820
107.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chicago

In Chicago, the median construction year is 1953. About 38.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 495,715 38.8% -0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 98,242 7.7% -5.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 147,483 11.6% 0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 121,006 9.5% -1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 98,293 7.7% -1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 66,324 5.2% 5.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 59,723 4.7% -3.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 109,627 8.6% 5.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 69,821 5.5% 7.8%
Built in 2020 or later 10,820 0.8% 107.2%
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.

Chicago occupancy rates

Out of the 1,160,205 occupied housing units in Chicago, 46% are owner-occupied, while 54% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,160,205
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
626,193
Owner occupied
534,012
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 626,193 54% 0.3%
Owner occupied 534,012 46% 2.3%
Unoccupied housing units
9.1%
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.

Chicago housing costs

Housing costs in Chicago come to a median of $1,560 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,440.

Median housing costs per month
$1,560/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 Chicago
$1,440/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 Chicago

Chicago education at a glance

About 28.3% of the population in Chicago went to high school, while 17.8% pursued college studies. Another 5.7% earned an associate degree and 25% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 136,691 6.2% -0.5%
High school diploma 618,469 28.3% -1.0%
College diploma 389,232 17.8% -1.4%
Associate degree 123,782 5.7% -0.5%
Bachelor's degree 546,889 25% 2.8%
Graduate degree 370,537 17% 3.5%
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 Chicago

How much people earn in Chicago

The average annual household income in Chicago was $116,016 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $77,902, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chicago
$116,016/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chicago
$77,902/year
3.7% year-over-year change

Chicago income by age

In Chicago, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $95,113. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $83,085 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,977, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,743 in earnings. Overall, 83.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,977 1.8%
25 - 44 $95,113 3.0%
45 - 64 $83,085 3.8%
Over 65 $46,743 6.1%
Above poverty level
2,188,407
Below poverty level
441,818
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,188,407 83.2% 0.1%
Below poverty level 441,818 16.8% 0.3%

Average renter income in Chicago

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Chicago, their median household income was $50,129 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$50,129
Rent-to-income ratio
34.5%
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 Chicago

Workforce and job types in Chicago

The job market in Chicago is powered by 1,395,899 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 66.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,395,899
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,166,300
Blue collar
229,599
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,166,300 83.6% 1.5%
Blue collar 229,599 16.4% -1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
66.5%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 118,002 8.4% 1.1%
Private companies 928,828 66.5% -0.1%
Governmental workers 179,945 12.9% 4.7%
Not for profit companies 169,124 12.1% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
8.0%
2.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chicago stands at 8%, 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 Chicago

How people get around in Chicago

In Chicago, the average commute time is 33 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 52.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
33 min
-1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 710,801 52.1% -1.5%
Taxicab 10,620 0.8% -0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 117,973 8.6% -8.4%
Subway or elevated 106,161 7.8% N/A
Railroad 15,695 1.2% 0.6%
Ferryboat 140 0% 197.9%
Motorcycle 727 0% -10.2%
Bicycle 19,311 1.4% 4.1%
Walk 79,224 5.8% 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 Chicago by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60601 15,235 9,631 $121,458 $209,944
60602 1,480 712 $126,202 $159,169
60603 1,298 783 $133,545 $164,227
60604 616 389 $81,658 $211,908
60605 36,210 19,632 $123,922 $157,431
60606 3,840 2,900 $128,609 $236,178
60607 32,392 16,556 $127,732 $178,770
60608 80,737 30,650 $73,366 $97,792
60609 62,028 22,884 $58,896 $77,374
60610 44,883 28,478 $105,226 $171,410

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FAQs about Chicago demographics 

What is the total population of Chicago?

Chicago has a total population of 2,711,226 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Chicago?

The gender ratio in Chicago is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (1,317,618 residents)
  • 51.4% females (1,393,608 residents)

What is the median age in Chicago?

The median age in Chicago is 35.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Chicago?

The age distribution in Chicago is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (434,159 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (352,409 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.3% (929,946 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.9% (620,047 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.8% (374,665 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chicago?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chicago is as follows:
  • White: 36% (977,223 residents)
  • Black or African American: 27.9% (755,488 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (29,720 residents)
  • Asian: 7.3% (198,842 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1,433 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.9% (375,822 residents)
  • Other: 13.8% (372,698 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.2% of the population in Chicago.

How many housing units are there in Chicago?

There are 1,277,054 housing units in Chicago, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Chicago has a total of 1,160,205 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chicago?

Chicago has a median household income of $77,902, representing a +3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Chicago?

The employment rate is 92% in Chicago, with a workforce of 1,395,899 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.6% (1,166,300 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.4% (229,599 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (118,002 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.5% (928,828 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (179,945 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.1% (169,124 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