Coles County, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
46,777
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,478/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
22,681
-0.2% year-over-year change

Coles County population

How many people live in Coles County

Coles County is home to 46,777 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Coles County locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
46,777
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
22,945
Female
51%
23,832
Value Percent YoY change
Male 22,945 49% -0.1%
Female 23,832 51% 0.5%
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 Coles County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.2% are children under 15, then 20% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.7% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.2%
15 to 24
20%
25 to 44
23.7%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,119 15.2% 0.3%
15 to 24 9,354 20% 0.7%
25 to 44 11,081 23.7% 1.8%
45 to 64 10,631 22.7% -3.1%
Over 65 8,592 18.4% 1.8%
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 Coles County, 96.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.7% of locals are Caucasian, 3.6% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 45,182 96.6% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,009 2.2% 15.4%
Non-citizens 586 1.2% 0.3%
Racial breakdown
White
89.7%
Black or African American
3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 41,961 89.7%
Black or African American 1,670 3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 20 0%
Asian 624 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 3 0%
Two or more races 1,919 4.1%
Other 580 1.2%

Households in Coles County

A peek inside Coles County households

Coles County has 20,824 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.4% are families, while the remaining 44.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,824
2.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,286
Family households
11,538
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,286 44.6% 7.4%
Family households 11,538 55.4% -1.3%
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 Coles County

The housing landscape of Coles County

Coles County's housing consists of 22,681 units, with 67.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3% 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 3.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
22,681
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,319 67.5%
1 unit, attached 680 3%
2 units 990 4.4%
3 or 4 units 1,112 4.9%
5 to 9 units 1,239 5.5%
10 to 19 units 834 3.7%
20 to 49 units 877 3.9%
50 or more units 731 3.2%
Mobile home 882 3.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
58
65.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Coles County

In Coles County, the median construction year is 1971. About 23.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% 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, 4.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,317 23.4% 0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 977 4.3% -5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,748 12.1% 1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,004 8.8% -13.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,662 16.2% 2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,370 10.4% 0.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,669 11.8% -0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,892 8.3% 10.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 984 4.3% -2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 58 0.3% 65.7%
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.

Coles County occupancy rates

Out of the 20,824 occupied housing units in Coles County, 60.4% are owner-occupied, while 39.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,824
2.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,250
Owner occupied
12,574
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,250 39.6% 2.4%
Owner occupied 12,574 60.4% 2.4%
Unoccupied housing units
8.2%
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.

Coles County housing costs

Housing costs in Coles County come to a median of $802 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $780.

Median housing costs per month
$802/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 Coles County
$780/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 Coles County

Coles County education at a glance

About 36.4% of the population in Coles County went to high school, while 25.3% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 14.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,118 2.9% 17.2%
High school diploma 13,920 36.4% 1.6%
College diploma 9,682 25.3% -4.4%
Associate degree 4,512 11.8% 4.8%
Bachelor's degree 5,535 14.5% -4.0%
Graduate degree 3,461 9% 4.5%
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 Coles County

How much people earn in Coles County

The average annual household income in Coles County was $74,657 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,478, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Coles County
$74,657/year
-3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Coles County
$56,478/year
0.8% year-over-year change

Coles County income by age

In Coles County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,817 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $27,798, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,559 in earnings. Overall, 81.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $27,798 -13.9%
25 - 44 $63,750 6.8%
45 - 64 $67,817 -6.0%
Over 65 $49,559 0.2%
Above poverty level
34,659
Below poverty level
7,949
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 34,659 81.3% -1.2%
Below poverty level 7,949 18.7% 1.7%

Employment in Coles County

Workforce and job types in Coles County

The job market in Coles County is powered by 22,336 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 60% are employed by private companies, and 17.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
22,336
-1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
16,713
Blue collar
5,623
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,713 74.8% 0.0%
Blue collar 5,623 25.2% -6.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
60%
Governmental workers
17.1%
Not for profit companies
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,992 8.9% 6.0%
Private companies 13,399 60% -5.2%
Governmental workers 3,827 17.1% 4.7%
Not for profit companies 3,118 14% 1.5%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
-12.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Coles County stands at 6.1%, 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 Coles County

How people get around in Coles County

Commuting methods vary: 85.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 18,421 85.4% -2.5%
Taxicab 25 0.1% -58.3%
Bus or trolleybus 21 0.1% N/A
Railroad 2 0% -33.3%
Motorcycle 20 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 326 1.5% 6.2%
Walk 1,025 4.8% -11.3%
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 Coles County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61910 4,769 1,440 $88,538 $100,436
61911 4,508 1,738 $82,633 $90,193
61912 1,255 571 $74,954 $82,250
61920 20,951 8,843 $52,429 $74,630
61930 687 249 $79,531 $92,382
61931 1,350 501 $74,125 $81,614
61938 20,350 9,629 $57,503 $72,323
61943 1,396 707 $54,196 $71,308
62440 1,107 480 $79,605 $94,948
62469 552 159 $116,440 $116,287

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FAQs about Coles County demographics 

What is the total population of Coles County?

Coles County has a total population of 46,777 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 Coles County?

The gender ratio in Coles County is as follows:
  • 49% males (22,945 residents)
  • 51% females (23,832 residents)

What is the median age in Coles County?

The median age in Coles County is 37.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Coles County?

The age distribution in Coles County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.2% (7,119 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20% (9,354 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.7% (11,081 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (10,631 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (8,592 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Coles County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Coles County is as follows:
  • White: 89.7% (41,961 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.6% (1,670 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (20 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (624 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (3 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (1,919 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (580 residents)

What percentage of the population in Coles County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.6% of the population in Coles County.

How many housing units are there in Coles County?

There are 22,681 housing units in Coles County, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Coles County and what is the average household size?

Coles County has a total of 20,824 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Coles County?

Coles County has a median household income of $56,478, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Coles County?

The employment rate is 93.9% in Coles County, with a workforce of 22,336 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.8% (16,713 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.2% (5,623 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (1,992 residents)
  • Private companies: 60% (13,399 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.1% (3,827 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14% (3,118 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