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

Total population
355,252
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,826/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
132,391
-0.9% year-over-year change

Southwest Side Chicago population

How many people live in Southwest Side Chicago

Southwest Side Chicago is home to 355,252 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Southwest Side Chicago locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
355,252
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
177,780
Female
50%
177,472
Value Percent YoY change
Male 177,780 50% -0.4%
Female 177,472 50% 0.1%
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 Southwest Side Chicago is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.6% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
27.6%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 70,461 19.8% -0.9%
15 to 24 51,105 14.4% -2.2%
25 to 44 98,076 27.6% 0.8%
45 to 64 87,021 24.5% 0.2%
Over 65 48,589 13.7% 0.7%
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 Southwest Side Chicago, 69.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 16.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 19.2% of locals are Caucasian, 22.1% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. Another 2.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 29.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 23.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
69.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.2%
Non-citizens
16.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 246,642 69.4% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 50,576 14.2% 0.2%
Non-citizens 58,034 16.3% 4.2%
Racial breakdown
White
19.2%
Black or African American
22.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.5%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
23.2%
Other
29.8%
Value Percent
White 68,303 19.2%
Black or African American 78,494 22.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 8,873 2.5%
Asian 10,931 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 274 0.1%
Two or more races 82,378 23.2%
Other 105,999 29.8%

Households in Southwest Side Chicago

A peek inside Southwest Side Chicago households

Southwest Side Chicago has 119,485 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.5% are families, while the remaining 32.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
119,485
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
38,823
Family households
80,661
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 38,823 32.5% -2.4%
Family households 80,661 67.5% 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 Southwest Side Chicago

The housing landscape of Southwest Side Chicago

Southwest Side Chicago's housing consists of 132,391 units, with 48.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.9% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
132,391
-0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 63,868 48.2%
1 unit, attached 3,856 2.9%
2 units 29,208 22.1%
3 or 4 units 17,518 13.2%
5 to 9 units 7,969 6%
10 to 19 units 2,635 2%
20 to 49 units 2,076 1.6%
50 or more units 4,420 3.3%
Mobile home 832 0.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 10 0%
Homes built since 2020
123
156.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southwest Side Chicago

In Southwest Side Chicago, the median construction year is 1944. About 37.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 50,027 37.8% 0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 13,037 9.8% -3.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 25,066 18.9% -3.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,005 12.1% -5.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,720 7.3% -1.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,877 3.7% -2.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,421 4.1% -1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,300 4% 21.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,815 2.1% 2.2%
Built in 2020 or later 123 0.1% 156.2%
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.

Southwest Side Chicago occupancy rates

Out of the 119,485 occupied housing units in Southwest Side Chicago, 58.6% are owner-occupied, while 41.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
119,485
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
49,504
Owner occupied
69,981
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 49,504 41.4% -3.4%
Owner occupied 69,981 58.6% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
9.7%
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.

Southwest Side Chicago housing costs

Housing costs in Southwest Side Chicago come to a median of $1,146 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,155.

Median housing costs per month
$1,146/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 Southwest Side Chicago
$1,155/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 Southwest Side Chicago

Southwest Side Chicago education at a glance

About 45.4% of the population in Southwest Side Chicago went to high school, while 19.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.3% earned an associate degree and 10.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 35,028 13% 5.2%
High school diploma 122,222 45.4% -1.8%
College diploma 52,739 19.6% -1.3%
Associate degree 16,899 6.3% -3.3%
Bachelor's degree 29,369 10.9% 2.4%
Graduate degree 12,954 4.8% 8.0%
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 Southwest Side Chicago

How much people earn in Southwest Side Chicago

The average annual household income in Southwest Side Chicago was $83,310 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,826, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southwest Side Chicago
$83,310/year
6.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southwest Side Chicago
$60,826/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Southwest Side Chicago income by age

In Southwest 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 $61,270. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,721 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,355, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,278 in earnings. Overall, 81.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,355 31.6%
25 - 44 $61,270 1.4%
45 - 64 $80,721 5.4%
Over 65 $35,278 16.9%
Above poverty level
283,199
Below poverty level
65,964
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 283,199 81.1% -0.5%
Below poverty level 65,964 18.9% 1.5%

Employment in Southwest Side Chicago

Workforce and job types in Southwest Side Chicago

67.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 69.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
102,446
Blue collar
49,390
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 102,446 67.5% -0.1%
Blue collar 49,390 32.5% 2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
69.9%
Governmental workers
13.9%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 12,228 8% 7.2%
Private companies 106,127 69.9% -0.4%
Governmental workers 21,043 13.9% 3.6%
Not for profit companies 12,439 8.2% 0.4%

Transportation in Southwest Side Chicago

How people get around in Southwest Side Chicago

In Southwest Side Chicago, the average commute time is 129 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
129 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 108,357 87% -0.4%
Taxicab 828 0.7% 19.1%
Bus or trolleybus 11,246 9% -7.8%
Railroad 844 0.7% -5.7%
Motorcycle 47 0% 74.1%
Bicycle 515 0.4% -7.5%
Walk 2,646 2.1% -3.0%
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 Southwest Side Chicago by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60609 62,028 22,884 $58,896 $77,374
60621 28,301 11,414 $31,905 $46,873
60629 108,324 33,755 $60,826 $82,499
60632 89,107 27,292 $64,809 $85,623
60636 32,198 11,306 $38,807 $59,332
60638 57,074 20,627 $91,070 $108,060
60652 41,074 13,122 $80,020 $96,412

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FAQs about Southwest Side Chicago demographics 

What is the total population of Southwest Side Chicago?

Southwest Side Chicago has a total population of 355,252 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 Southwest Side Chicago?

The gender ratio in Southwest Side Chicago is as follows:
  • 50% males (177,780 residents)
  • 50% females (177,472 residents)

What is the median age in Southwest Side Chicago?

The median age in Southwest Side Chicago is 36.2.

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

The age distribution in Southwest Side Chicago is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (70,461 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (51,105 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.6% (98,076 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (87,021 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.7% (48,589 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southwest Side Chicago is as follows:
  • White: 19.2% (68,303 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.1% (78,494 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.5% (8,873 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (10,931 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (274 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 23.2% (82,378 residents)
  • Other: 29.8% (105,999 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 69.4% of the population in Southwest Side Chicago.

How many housing units are there in Southwest Side Chicago?

There are 132,391 housing units in Southwest Side Chicago, reflecting a -0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Southwest Side Chicago has a total of 119,485 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southwest Side Chicago?

Southwest Side Chicago has a median household income of $60,826, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Southwest Side Chicago?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.5% (102,446 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.5% (49,390 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (12,228 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.9% (106,127 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.9% (21,043 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (12,439 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