North Side Chicago, Chicago, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
294,626
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$110,939/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
156,819
1.6% year-over-year change

North Side Chicago population

How many people live in North Side Chicago

North Side Chicago is home to 294,626 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of North Side Chicago locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
294,626
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
144,749
Female
50.9%
149,877
Value Percent YoY change
Male 144,749 49.1% -0.1%
Female 149,877 50.9% 0.6%
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 North Side Chicago is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.5% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 46.8% of the population, while another 18.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 9.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.5%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
46.8%
45 to 64
18.4%
Over 65
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 39,733 13.5% 0.3%
15 to 24 35,345 12% -0.8%
25 to 44 137,771 46.8% 0.6%
45 to 64 54,254 18.4% -0.6%
Over 65 27,522 9.3% 1.7%
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 North Side Chicago, 82.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.2% of locals are Caucasian, 4.7% are African American and 6.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 13.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.2%
Non-citizens
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 243,068 82.5% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 30,134 10.2% -1.2%
Non-citizens 21,424 7.3% -0.1%
Racial breakdown
White
66.2%
Black or African American
4.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
6.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
13.8%
Other
7.8%
Value Percent
White 195,090 66.2%
Black or African American 13,818 4.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,695 0.6%
Asian 19,866 6.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 229 0.1%
Two or more races 40,818 13.8%
Other 23,109 7.8%

Households in North Side Chicago

A peek inside North Side Chicago households

North Side Chicago has 144,488 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 38.9% are families, while the remaining 61.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
144,488
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
88,336
Family households
56,152
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 88,336 61.1% 3.6%
Family households 56,152 38.9% -1.1%
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 North Side Chicago

The housing landscape of North Side Chicago

North Side Chicago's housing consists of 156,819 units, with 12.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
156,819
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,983 12.7%
1 unit, attached 6,391 4.1%
2 units 17,058 10.9%
3 or 4 units 30,757 19.6%
5 to 9 units 22,830 14.6%
10 to 19 units 9,558 6.1%
20 to 49 units 15,378 9.8%
50 or more units 34,748 22.2%
Mobile home 106 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,787
79.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in North Side Chicago

In North Side Chicago, the median construction year is 1957. About 43.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 68,628 43.8% 0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,099 3.2% -1.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,749 6.2% 0.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 13,383 8.5% 0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 14,351 9.2% -1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,074 6.4% 6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,227 5.9% -3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 13,029 8.3% 0.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11,492 7.3% 13.3%
Built in 2020 or later 1,787 1.1% 79.1%
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.

North Side Chicago occupancy rates

Out of the 144,488 occupied housing units in North Side Chicago, 41.8% are owner-occupied, while 58.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
144,488
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
84,085
Owner occupied
60,403
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 84,085 58.2% 1.3%
Owner occupied 60,403 41.8% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
7.9%
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.

North Side Chicago housing costs

Housing costs in North Side Chicago come to a median of $2,114 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,869.

Median housing costs per month
$2,114/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 North Side Chicago
$1,869/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 North Side Chicago

North Side Chicago education at a glance

About 12.1% of the population in North Side Chicago went to high school, while 10.3% pursued college studies. Another 3.7% earned an associate degree and 43.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 27.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,315 2.9% -1.7%
High school diploma 30,086 12.1% -5.2%
College diploma 25,599 10.3% -3.0%
Associate degree 9,088 3.7% -0.7%
Bachelor's degree 107,057 43.1% 2.3%
Graduate degree 69,425 27.9% 2.0%
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 North Side Chicago

How much people earn in North Side Chicago

The average annual household income in North Side Chicago was $170,107 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $110,939, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in North Side Chicago
$170,107/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in North Side Chicago
$110,939/year
1.8% year-over-year change

North Side Chicago income by age

In North Side Chicago, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $129,114. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $123,750 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $70,473, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,849 in earnings. Overall, 90.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $70,473 2.6%
25 - 44 $129,114 5.6%
45 - 64 $123,750 13.9%
Over 65 $49,849 8.6%
Above poverty level
259,845
Below poverty level
26,843
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 259,845 90.6% 0.1%
Below poverty level 26,843 9.4% 0.7%

Employment in North Side Chicago

Workforce and job types in North Side Chicago

93.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 6.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 72.3% are employed by private companies, and 8.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
180,214
Blue collar
12,779
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 180,214 93.4% 1.2%
Blue collar 12,779 6.6% -6.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
72.3%
Governmental workers
8.4%
Not for profit companies
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 15,491 8% -0.5%
Private companies 139,614 72.3% 0.1%
Governmental workers 16,251 8.4% 7.6%
Not for profit companies 21,636 11.2% -0.1%

Transportation in North Side Chicago

How people get around in North Side Chicago

In North Side Chicago, the average commute time is 128 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 69% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
128 min
-1.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 66,796 69% -2.9%
Taxicab 946 1% 5.2%
Bus or trolleybus 15,287 15.8% -9.0%
Railroad 1,438 1.5% 17.5%
Ferryboat 2 0% -71.4%
Motorcycle 81 0.1% -38.2%
Bicycle 4,595 4.7% -1.1%
Walk 7,715 8% -0.3%
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 North Side Chicago by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60613 52,244 29,343 $95,572 $136,881
60614 70,693 35,386 $136,448 $225,994
60618 91,901 38,038 $106,384 $155,215
60622 54,609 26,486 $136,277 $192,992
60642 21,789 11,765 $143,175 $177,857
60647 84,749 38,849 $107,060 $152,079
60657 71,904 40,520 $110,939 $169,186

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FAQs about North Side Chicago demographics 

What is the total population of North Side Chicago?

North Side Chicago has a total population of 294,626 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in North Side Chicago?

The gender ratio in North Side Chicago is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (144,749 residents)
  • 50.9% females (149,877 residents)

What is the median age in North Side Chicago?

The median age in North Side Chicago is 32.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in North Side Chicago?

The age distribution in North Side Chicago is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.5% (39,733 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (35,345 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 46.8% (137,771 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.4% (54,254 residents)
  • Over 65: 9.3% (27,522 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of North Side Chicago?

The racial and ethnic makeup of North Side Chicago is as follows:
  • White: 66.2% (195,090 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.7% (13,818 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (1,695 residents)
  • Asian: 6.7% (19,866 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (229 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.8% (40,818 residents)
  • Other: 7.8% (23,109 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.5% of the population in North Side Chicago.

How many housing units are there in North Side Chicago?

There are 156,819 housing units in North Side Chicago, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

North Side Chicago has a total of 144,488 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in North Side Chicago?

North Side Chicago has a median household income of $110,939, representing a +1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for North Side Chicago?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93.4% (180,214 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 6.6% (12,779 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (15,491 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.3% (139,614 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.4% (16,251 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.2% (21,636 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