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

Total population
5,182,090
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$83,498/yr
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,276,493
0.3% year-over-year change

Cook County population

How many people live in Cook County

Cook County is home to 5,182,090 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Cook County locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
5,182,090
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
2,528,888
Female
51.2%
2,653,202
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,528,888 48.8% -0.1%
Female 2,653,202 51.2% -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 Cook County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.3% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.8% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.3%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
29.8%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
16%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 896,134 17.3% -2.1%
15 to 24 644,422 12.4% 0.8%
25 to 44 1,545,135 29.8% 0.1%
45 to 64 1,269,243 24.5% -1.0%
Over 65 827,156 16% 2.6%
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 Cook County, 76.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 43.6% of locals are Caucasian, 22.2% are African American and 8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 13% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.1%
Non-citizens
10.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,968,780 76.6% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 678,206 13.1% 0.5%
Non-citizens 535,104 10.3% 2.9%
Racial breakdown
White
43.6%
Black or African American
22.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
13%
Other
12.4%
Value Percent
White 2,257,930 43.6%
Black or African American 1,148,066 22.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 47,333 0.9%
Asian 411,778 8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2,389 0%
Two or more races 672,450 13%
Other 642,144 12.4%

Households in Cook County

A peek inside Cook County households

Cook County has 2,100,230 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.6% are families, while the remaining 42.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,100,230
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
890,141
Family households
1,210,089
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 890,141 42.4% 1.9%
Family households 1,210,089 57.6% -0.1%
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 Cook County

The housing landscape of Cook County

Cook County's housing consists of 2,276,493 units, with 39.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.4% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,276,493
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 900,824 39.6%
1 unit, attached 124,081 5.4%
2 units 203,431 8.9%
3 or 4 units 237,569 10.4%
5 to 9 units 221,658 9.7%
10 to 19 units 113,433 5%
20 to 49 units 133,258 5.8%
50 or more units 323,493 14.2%
Mobile home 17,847 0.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 899 0%
Homes built since 2020
15,047
97.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cook County

In Cook County, the median construction year is 1961. About 27.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 632,386 27.8% -0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 150,008 6.6% -3.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 324,927 14.3% -0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 283,708 12.5% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 276,109 12.1% -1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 171,892 7.6% 2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 141,698 6.2% -1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 180,901 8% 3.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 99,817 4.4% 7.6%
Built in 2020 or later 15,047 0.7% 97.5%
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.

Cook County occupancy rates

Out of the 2,100,230 occupied housing units in Cook County, 57.7% are owner-occupied, while 42.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,100,230
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
887,660
Owner occupied
1,212,570
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 887,660 42.3% 0.2%
Owner occupied 1,212,570 57.7% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
7.7%
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.

Cook County housing costs

Housing costs in Cook County come to a median of $1,558 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,435.

Median housing costs per month
$1,558/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 Cook County
$1,435/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 Cook County

Cook County education at a glance

About 28.8% of the population in Cook County went to high school, while 18.7% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 24.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 231,821 5.7% 0.6%
High school diploma 1,177,088 28.8% -0.7%
College diploma 765,425 18.7% -2.0%
Associate degree 267,842 6.6% 0.4%
Bachelor's degree 984,848 24.1% 1.9%
Graduate degree 662,864 16.2% 2.7%
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 Cook County

How much people earn in Cook County

The average annual household income in Cook County was $120,717 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 $83,498, reflecting a +2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cook County
$120,717/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cook County
$83,498/year
2.1% year-over-year change

Cook County income by age

In Cook County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $95,776. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $96,599 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,011, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,774 in earnings. Overall, 86.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,011 2.2%
25 - 44 $95,776 2.3%
45 - 64 $96,599 3.3%
Over 65 $56,774 3.1%
Above poverty level
4,365,149
Below poverty level
679,558
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,365,149 86.5% -0.2%
Below poverty level 679,558 13.5% 1.2%

Employment in Cook County

Workforce and job types in Cook County

The job market in Cook County is powered by 2,597,162 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 67.4% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,597,162
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
2,102,605
Blue collar
494,557
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,102,605 81% 0.6%
Blue collar 494,557 19% -1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
67.4%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 241,159 9.3% 0.8%
Private companies 1,749,095 67.4% -0.5%
Governmental workers 317,459 12.2% 1.6%
Not for profit companies 289,449 11.1% 3.2%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
2.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cook County stands at 7%, 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 Cook County

How people get around in Cook County

In Cook County, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 62.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
-1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,588,830 62.6% -2.1%
Taxicab 15,321 0.6% 7.9%
Bus or trolleybus 133,021 5.2% -8.2%
Subway or elevated 120,015 4.7% N/A
Railroad 45,346 1.8% -10.0%
Ferryboat 210 0% 37.2%
Motorcycle 998 0% -12.2%
Bicycle 23,991 0.9% 2.8%
Walk 101,572 4% 1.8%
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 Cook County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60004 51,835 20,236 $128,979 $161,404
60005 28,843 12,683 $99,743 $129,811
60007 32,592 13,262 $93,494 $113,086
60008 22,800 8,890 $94,336 $111,536
60010 45,747 16,529 $177,566 $228,492
60016 60,898 23,854 $86,571 $112,011
60018 27,952 9,589 $90,574 $107,883
60022 8,352 2,851 $250,001 $430,051
60025 41,689 16,187 $126,904 $188,847
60026 14,069 5,414 $137,778 $200,158

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FAQs about Cook County demographics 

What is the total population of Cook County?

Cook County has a total population of 5,182,090 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 Cook County?

The gender ratio in Cook County is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (2,528,888 residents)
  • 51.2% females (2,653,202 residents)

What is the median age in Cook County?

The median age in Cook County is 38.

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

The age distribution in Cook County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.3% (896,134 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (644,422 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.8% (1,545,135 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (1,269,243 residents)
  • Over 65: 16% (827,156 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cook County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cook County is as follows:
  • White: 43.6% (2,257,930 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.2% (1,148,066 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (47,333 residents)
  • Asian: 8% (411,778 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2,389 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13% (672,450 residents)
  • Other: 12.4% (642,144 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.6% of the population in Cook County.

How many housing units are there in Cook County?

There are 2,276,493 housing units in Cook County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cook County has a total of 2,100,230 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cook County?

Cook County has a median household income of $83,498, representing a +2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93% in Cook County, with a workforce of 2,597,162 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81% (2,102,605 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19% (494,557 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (241,159 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.4% (1,749,095 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (317,459 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.1% (289,449 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