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

Total population
155,340
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$125,938/yr
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
102,567
3.0% year-over-year change

Central Chicago population

How many people live in Central Chicago

Central Chicago is home to 155,340 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Central Chicago locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
155,340
2.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
74,878
Female
51.8%
80,462
Value Percent YoY change
Male 74,878 48.2% 3.6%
Female 80,462 51.8% 1.5%
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 Chicago is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 7% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 49.6% of the population, while another 17.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
33
Age breakdown
Under 15
7%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
49.6%
45 to 64
17.8%
Over 65
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,885 7% -5.1%
15 to 24 19,912 12.8% 6.2%
25 to 44 77,129 49.6% 4.1%
45 to 64 27,627 17.8% 1.5%
Over 65 19,788 12.7% -1.0%
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 Chicago, 76.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 57.4% of locals are Caucasian, 11.9% are African American and 19.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.1%
Non-citizens
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 118,232 76.1% 2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 17,222 11.1% 1.0%
Non-citizens 19,886 12.8% 4.7%
Racial breakdown
White
57.4%
Black or African American
11.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
19.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
3.1%
Value Percent
White 89,229 57.4%
Black or African American 18,514 11.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 869 0.6%
Asian 29,616 19.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 83 0%
Two or more races 12,233 7.9%
Other 4,796 3.1%

Households in Central Chicago

A peek inside Central Chicago households

Central Chicago has 92,843 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 29.8% are families, while the remaining 70.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
92,843
4.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
65,144
Family households
27,699
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 65,144 70.2% 6.4%
Family households 27,699 29.8% 0.6%
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 Central Chicago

The housing landscape of Central Chicago

Central Chicago's housing consists of 102,567 units, with 2.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.7% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
102,567
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,700 2.6%
1 unit, attached 2,744 2.7%
2 units 1,602 1.6%
3 or 4 units 3,612 3.5%
5 to 9 units 3,473 3.4%
10 to 19 units 2,007 2%
20 to 49 units 6,935 6.8%
50 or more units 79,390 77.4%
Mobile home 105 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,749
170.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Central Chicago

In Central Chicago, the median construction year is 1998. About 14.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 26.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 15,302 14.9% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,266 1.2% -11.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,035 3.9% 0.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,101 7.9% 1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,384 9.2% -7.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,253 9% 6.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,017 7.8% -3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 27,117 26.4% 6.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 17,344 16.9% 0.8%
Built in 2020 or later 2,749 2.7% 170.6%
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 Chicago occupancy rates

Out of the 92,843 occupied housing units in Central Chicago, 36.9% are owner-occupied, while 63.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
92,843
4.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
58,617
Owner occupied
34,226
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 58,617 63.1% 4.8%
Owner occupied 34,226 36.9% 4.3%
Unoccupied housing units
9.5%
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 Chicago housing costs

Housing costs in Central Chicago come to a median of $2,578 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,438.

Median housing costs per month
$2,578/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 Chicago
$2,438/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 Chicago

Central Chicago education at a glance

About 8.1% of the population in Central Chicago went to high school, while 9.9% pursued college studies. Another 3% earned an associate degree and 42.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 35.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,070 1.4% -12.6%
High school diploma 11,669 8.1% 1.4%
College diploma 14,159 9.9% 3.0%
Associate degree 4,259 3% 1.3%
Bachelor's degree 60,382 42.1% 5.5%
Graduate degree 50,913 35.5% 2.2%
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 Central Chicago

How much people earn in Central Chicago

The average annual household income in Central Chicago was $166,519 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $125,938, reflecting a +0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Central Chicago
$166,519/year
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Central Chicago
$125,938/year
0.4% year-over-year change

Central Chicago income by age

In Central Chicago, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $130,336. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $164,720 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,114, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $93,490 in earnings. Overall, 89.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,114 1.7%
25 - 44 $130,336 1.2%
45 - 64 $164,720 13.2%
Over 65 $93,490 -12.3%
Above poverty level
133,407
Below poverty level
15,005
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 133,407 89.9% 2.5%
Below poverty level 15,005 10.1% 2.7%

Employment in Central Chicago

Workforce and job types in Central Chicago

96.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 3.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 69.8% are employed by private companies, and 8.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
102,486
Blue collar
3,772
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 102,486 96.4% 4.7%
Blue collar 3,772 3.6% -6.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
69.8%
Governmental workers
8.9%
Not for profit companies
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8,848 8.3% 5.8%
Private companies 74,122 69.8% 3.7%
Governmental workers 9,504 8.9% 9.6%
Not for profit companies 13,785 13% 3.2%

Transportation in Central Chicago

How people get around in Central Chicago

In Central Chicago, the average commute time is 95 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 43.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 36.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
95 min
39.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 26,820 43.4% -0.6%
Taxicab 1,504 2.4% -11.4%
Bus or trolleybus 7,646 12.4% -9.3%
Railroad 1,114 1.8% 26.9%
Motorcycle 4 0% -33.3%
Bicycle 2,232 3.6% 18.0%
Walk 22,414 36.3% 0.4%
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 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
60610 44,883 28,478 $105,226 $171,410
60611 37,705 24,714 $125,675 $196,298
60616 54,308 25,623 $73,819 $102,860

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Central Chicago demographics 

What is the total population of Central Chicago?

Central Chicago has a total population of 155,340 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 +2.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Central Chicago?

The gender ratio in Central Chicago is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (74,878 residents)
  • 51.8% females (80,462 residents)

What is the median age in Central Chicago?

The median age in Central Chicago is 33.

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

The age distribution in Central Chicago is as follows:
  • Under 15: 7% (10,885 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (19,912 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 49.6% (77,129 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.8% (27,627 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.7% (19,788 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Central Chicago?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Central Chicago is as follows:
  • White: 57.4% (89,229 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.9% (18,514 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (869 residents)
  • Asian: 19.1% (29,616 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (83 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (12,233 residents)
  • Other: 3.1% (4,796 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.1% of the population in Central Chicago.

How many housing units are there in Central Chicago?

There are 102,567 housing units in Central Chicago, reflecting a +3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Central Chicago has a total of 92,843 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Central Chicago?

Central Chicago has a median household income of $125,938, representing a +0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Central Chicago?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 96.4% (102,486 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 3.6% (3,772 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (8,848 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.8% (74,122 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.9% (9,504 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13% (13,785 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