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

Total population
224,771
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$88,533/yr
4.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
87,117
-0.1% year-over-year change

Northwest Side Chicago population

How many people live in Northwest Side Chicago

Northwest Side Chicago is home to 224,771 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Northwest Side Chicago locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
224,771
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
111,150
Female
50.6%
113,621
Value Percent YoY change
Male 111,150 49.4% 0.5%
Female 113,621 50.6% 0.4%
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 Northwest Side Chicago is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.2% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
37
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
30.2%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
13.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 41,430 18.4% 1.4%
15 to 24 26,867 12% -2.4%
25 to 44 67,888 30.2% 1.9%
45 to 64 57,657 25.6% -1.9%
Over 65 30,929 13.8% 3.1%
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 Northwest Side Chicago, 65.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 15.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 39.6% of locals are Caucasian, 6.3% are African American and 4.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 21% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
65.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19.2%
Non-citizens
15.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 146,785 65.3% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 43,238 19.2% -0.6%
Non-citizens 34,748 15.5% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
39.6%
Black or African American
6.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.5%
Asian
4.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
21%
Other
26.6%
Value Percent
White 89,062 39.6%
Black or African American 14,169 6.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,365 1.5%
Asian 10,896 4.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 81 0%
Two or more races 47,291 21%
Other 59,906 26.6%

Households in Northwest Side Chicago

A peek inside Northwest Side Chicago households

Northwest Side Chicago has 81,603 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.5% are families, while the remaining 34.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
81,603
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
28,185
Family households
53,418
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 28,185 34.5% -0.9%
Family households 53,418 65.5% 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 Northwest Side Chicago

The housing landscape of Northwest Side Chicago

Northwest Side Chicago's housing consists of 87,117 units, with 41% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
87,117
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 35,743 41%
1 unit, attached 1,915 2.2%
2 units 18,374 21.1%
3 or 4 units 14,077 16.2%
5 to 9 units 7,933 9.1%
10 to 19 units 3,406 3.9%
20 to 49 units 3,194 3.7%
50 or more units 2,340 2.7%
Mobile home 116 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0%
Homes built since 2020
481
104.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northwest Side Chicago

In Northwest Side Chicago, the median construction year is 1938. About 50.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 44,273 50.8% -0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,215 9.4% -0.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 10,460 12% 0.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,395 7.3% -1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,558 5.2% -6.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,385 3.9% 3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,039 3.5% -10.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,743 4.3% 4.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,568 3% 5.1%
Built in 2020 or later 481 0.6% 104.7%
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.

Northwest Side Chicago occupancy rates

Out of the 81,603 occupied housing units in Northwest Side Chicago, 57.7% are owner-occupied, while 42.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
81,603
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
34,519
Owner occupied
47,084
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 34,519 42.3% -0.8%
Owner occupied 47,084 57.7% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
6.3%
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.

Northwest Side Chicago housing costs

Housing costs in Northwest Side Chicago come to a median of $1,494 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,329.

Median housing costs per month
$1,494/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 Northwest Side Chicago
$1,329/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 Northwest Side Chicago

Northwest Side Chicago education at a glance

About 34.4% of the population in Northwest Side Chicago went to high school, while 18.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 20.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 16,871 9.7% -0.1%
High school diploma 59,710 34.4% -1.7%
College diploma 32,397 18.6% -4.3%
Associate degree 11,784 6.8% -1.0%
Bachelor's degree 35,050 20.2% 5.0%
Graduate degree 17,974 10.3% 5.3%
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 Northwest Side Chicago

How much people earn in Northwest Side Chicago

The average annual household income in Northwest Side Chicago was $107,407 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $88,533, reflecting a +4.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northwest Side Chicago
$107,407/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northwest Side Chicago
$88,533/year
4.2% year-over-year change

Northwest Side Chicago income by age

In Northwest 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 $103,876. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $98,575 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,896, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,094 in earnings. Overall, 87.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,896 -3.7%
25 - 44 $103,876 3.4%
45 - 64 $98,575 2.5%
Over 65 $50,094 5.9%
Above poverty level
192,208
Below poverty level
28,538
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 192,208 87.1% -0.1%
Below poverty level 28,538 12.9% 3.7%

Employment in Northwest Side Chicago

Workforce and job types in Northwest Side Chicago

The job market in Northwest Side Chicago is powered by 115,289 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 69.9% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
115,289
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
86,607
Blue collar
28,682
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 86,607 75.1% 0.8%
Blue collar 28,682 24.9% -4.4%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
69.9%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 11,685 10.1% 5.6%
Private companies 80,606 69.9% -2.0%
Governmental workers 14,100 12.2% 6.5%
Not for profit companies 8,898 7.7% -4.3%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
9.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Northwest Side Chicago stands at 5.9%, 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 Northwest Side Chicago

How people get around in Northwest Side Chicago

In Northwest Side Chicago, the average commute time is 107 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
107 min
-0.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 75,709 86% -2.6%
Taxicab 303 0.3% -10.6%
Bus or trolleybus 7,824 8.9% -9.5%
Railroad 982 1.1% -1.2%
Motorcycle 48 0% -9.4%
Bicycle 1,097 1.2% 19.5%
Walk 2,084 2.4% -9.3%
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 Northwest Side Chicago by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60618 91,901 38,038 $106,384 $155,215
60630 55,486 22,317 $98,860 $123,678
60634 73,885 27,382 $88,533 $108,238
60639 84,240 26,518 $61,089 $77,086
60641 68,894 25,938 $83,758 $113,210

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FAQs about Northwest Side Chicago demographics 

What is the total population of Northwest Side Chicago?

Northwest Side Chicago has a total population of 224,771 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northwest Side Chicago?

The gender ratio in Northwest Side Chicago is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (111,150 residents)
  • 50.6% females (113,621 residents)

What is the median age in Northwest Side Chicago?

The median age in Northwest Side Chicago is 37.

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

The age distribution in Northwest Side Chicago is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (41,430 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (26,867 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.2% (67,888 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (57,657 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.8% (30,929 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Side Chicago is as follows:
  • White: 39.6% (89,062 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.3% (14,169 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5% (3,365 residents)
  • Asian: 4.8% (10,896 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (81 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 21% (47,291 residents)
  • Other: 26.6% (59,906 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 65.3% of the population in Northwest Side Chicago.

How many housing units are there in Northwest Side Chicago?

There are 87,117 housing units in Northwest Side Chicago, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northwest Side Chicago has a total of 81,603 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northwest Side Chicago?

Northwest Side Chicago has a median household income of $88,533, representing a +4.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.1% in Northwest Side Chicago, with a workforce of 115,289 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.1% (86,607 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.9% (28,682 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (11,685 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.9% (80,606 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (14,100 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (8,898 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