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

Total population
460,964
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$90,213/yr
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
205,351
1.3% year-over-year change

West Side Chicago population

How many people live in West Side Chicago

West Side Chicago is home to 460,964 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of West Side Chicago locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
460,964
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
225,105
Female
51.2%
235,860
Value Percent YoY change
Male 225,105 48.8% 0.1%
Female 235,860 51.2% 2.2%
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 West Side Chicago is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.3% are children under 15, then 13.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 37.3% of the population, while another 21.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
34
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.3%
15 to 24
13.6%
25 to 44
37.3%
45 to 64
21.4%
Over 65
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 75,299 16.3% -3.6%
15 to 24 62,710 13.6% 5.5%
25 to 44 172,014 37.3% 1.3%
45 to 64 98,550 21.4% 1.9%
Over 65 52,392 11.4% 2.1%
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 West Side Chicago, 78.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 25.5% of locals are Caucasian, 35.3% are African American and 5.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 15.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.4%
Non-citizens
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 361,772 78.5% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 48,008 10.4% 2.3%
Non-citizens 51,184 11.1% 3.1%
Racial breakdown
White
25.5%
Black or African American
35.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
15.1%
Other
17.1%
Value Percent
White 117,607 25.5%
Black or African American 162,529 35.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,323 1.2%
Asian 26,530 5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 224 0%
Two or more races 69,795 15.1%
Other 78,956 17.1%

Households in West Side Chicago

A peek inside West Side Chicago households

West Side Chicago has 186,937 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.2% are families, while the remaining 48.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
186,937
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
91,151
Family households
95,786
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 91,151 48.8% 3.4%
Family households 95,786 51.2% 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 West Side Chicago

The housing landscape of West Side Chicago

West Side Chicago's housing consists of 205,351 units, with 15.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
205,351
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 31,661 15.4%
1 unit, attached 6,380 3.1%
2 units 44,155 21.5%
3 or 4 units 48,579 23.7%
5 to 9 units 25,058 12.2%
10 to 19 units 8,086 3.9%
20 to 49 units 8,449 4.1%
50 or more units 32,319 15.7%
Mobile home 564 0.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 100 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,627
109.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Side Chicago

In West Side Chicago, the median construction year is 1947. About 47.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 96,781 47.1% 2.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 10,899 5.3% -9.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 12,136 5.9% -8.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 11,516 5.6% -4.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,899 5.3% -5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,056 4.9% -0.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,199 5.4% 0.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 23,824 11.6% 3.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 15,413 7.5% 13.4%
Built in 2020 or later 2,627 1.3% 109.0%
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.

West Side Chicago occupancy rates

Out of the 186,937 occupied housing units in West Side Chicago, 38.4% are owner-occupied, while 61.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
186,937
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
115,228
Owner occupied
71,710
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 115,228 61.6% 0.7%
Owner occupied 71,710 38.4% 4.9%
Unoccupied housing units
9.0%
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.

West Side Chicago housing costs

Housing costs in West Side Chicago come to a median of $1,805 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,582.

Median housing costs per month
$1,805/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 West Side Chicago
$1,582/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 West Side Chicago

West Side Chicago education at a glance

About 33.3% of the population in West Side Chicago went to high school, while 17.5% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 21.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 29,771 8.1% -1.6%
High school diploma 122,877 33.3% -2.0%
College diploma 64,599 17.5% 2.8%
Associate degree 20,075 5.4% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 80,030 21.7% 5.7%
Graduate degree 51,739 14% 6.7%
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 West Side Chicago

How much people earn in West Side Chicago

The average annual household income in West Side Chicago was $94,373 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $90,213, reflecting a +4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Side Chicago
$94,373/year
6.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Side Chicago
$90,213/year
4.0% year-over-year change

West Side Chicago income by age

In West 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 $100,980. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,822 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,869, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,570 in earnings. Overall, 79.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,869 9.9%
25 - 44 $100,980 5.2%
45 - 64 $89,822 6.3%
Over 65 $37,570 -0.2%
Above poverty level
352,066
Below poverty level
91,408
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 352,066 79.4% 1.9%
Below poverty level 91,408 20.6% -0.8%

Employment in West Side Chicago

Workforce and job types in West Side Chicago

82.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.5% run their own businesses, 68.6% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
190,120
Blue collar
39,123
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 190,120 82.9% 4.4%
Blue collar 39,123 17.1% -5.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.5%
Private companies
68.6%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 17,229 7.5% -2.3%
Private companies 157,334 68.6% 2.6%
Governmental workers 27,362 11.9% 4.4%
Not for profit companies 27,318 11.9% 4.1%

Transportation in West Side Chicago

How people get around in West Side Chicago

In West Side Chicago, the average commute time is 279 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 69.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
279 min
-1.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 113,200 69.9% -1.4%
Taxicab 2,306 1.4% 5.0%
Bus or trolleybus 23,462 14.5% -4.7%
Railroad 2,250 1.4% 16.0%
Ferryboat 38 0% 375.0%
Motorcycle 186 0.1% -5.1%
Bicycle 4,018 2.5% 3.2%
Walk 16,506 10.2% 6.5%
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 West Side Chicago by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
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
60612 35,744 15,393 $60,922 $105,407
60622 54,609 26,486 $136,277 $192,992
60623 81,277 27,552 $51,878 $70,012
60624 35,263 13,490 $34,030 $54,659
60639 84,240 26,518 $61,089 $77,086
60642 21,789 11,765 $143,175 $177,857
60644 47,210 18,503 $40,950 $57,247

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FAQs about West Side Chicago demographics 

What is the total population of West Side Chicago?

West Side Chicago has a total population of 460,964 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 +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Side Chicago?

The gender ratio in West Side Chicago is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (225,105 residents)
  • 51.2% females (235,860 residents)

What is the median age in West Side Chicago?

The median age in West Side Chicago is 34.

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

The age distribution in West Side Chicago is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.3% (75,299 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.6% (62,710 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 37.3% (172,014 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.4% (98,550 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.4% (52,392 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Side Chicago is as follows:
  • White: 25.5% (117,607 residents)
  • Black or African American: 35.3% (162,529 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (5,323 residents)
  • Asian: 5.8% (26,530 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (224 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.1% (69,795 residents)
  • Other: 17.1% (78,956 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.5% of the population in West Side Chicago.

How many housing units are there in West Side Chicago?

There are 205,351 housing units in West Side Chicago, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Side Chicago has a total of 186,937 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Side Chicago?

West Side Chicago has a median household income of $90,213, representing a +4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for West Side Chicago?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.9% (190,120 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.1% (39,123 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.5% (17,229 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.6% (157,334 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (27,362 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.9% (27,318 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