Darien, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,879
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$111,215/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,950
-1.7% year-over-year change

Darien population

How many people live in Darien

Darien is home to 21,879 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Darien locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
21,879
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
10,710
Female
51%
11,169
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,710 49% -0.7%
Female 11,169 51% 0.8%
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 Darien is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.5% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.5%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
24.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,606 16.5% 6.2%
15 to 24 2,161 9.9% -4.8%
25 to 44 5,344 24.4% 0.7%
45 to 64 5,444 24.9% -7.3%
Over 65 5,324 24.3% 6.4%
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 Darien, 79.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.1% of locals are Caucasian, 2.9% are African American and 12.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
79.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.7%
Non-citizens
5.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,464 79.8% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,218 14.7% 9.8%
Non-citizens 1,197 5.5% -4.8%
Racial breakdown
White
75.1%
Black or African American
2.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
12.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.2%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 16,435 75.1%
Black or African American 643 2.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 53 0.2%
Asian 2,649 12.1%
Two or more races 1,802 8.2%
Other 297 1.4%

Households in Darien

A peek inside Darien households

Darien has 8,735 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 72.1% are families, while the remaining 27.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,735
-1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,437
Family households
6,298
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,437 27.9% -2.0%
Family households 6,298 72.1% -0.7%
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 Darien

The housing landscape of Darien

Darien's housing consists of 8,950 units, with 60.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 16.5% 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
8,950
-1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,420 60.6%
1 unit, attached 1,477 16.5%
2 units 62 0.7%
3 or 4 units 344 3.8%
5 to 9 units 302 3.4%
10 to 19 units 416 4.6%
20 to 49 units 731 8.2%
50 or more units 170 1.9%
Mobile home 28 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
26
-16.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Darien

In Darien, the median construction year is 1978. About 0.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2% 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 50 0.6% -59.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 76 0.8% -5.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 602 6.7% -2.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,370 15.3% -5.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,825 31.6% -0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,799 20.1% -0.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,554 17.4% -5.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 471 5.3% 48.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 177 2% -6.3%
Built in 2020 or later 26 0.3% -16.1%
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.

Darien occupancy rates

Out of the 8,735 occupied housing units in Darien, 78.8% are owner-occupied, while 21.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,735
-1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,854
Owner occupied
6,881
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,854 21.2% -2.3%
Owner occupied 6,881 78.8% -0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
2.4%
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.

Darien housing costs

Housing costs in Darien come to a median of $1,615 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,857.

Median housing costs per month
$1,615/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 Darien
$1,857/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 Darien

Darien education at a glance

About 23.4% of the population in Darien went to high school, while 20% pursued college studies. Another 6.1% earned an associate degree and 30.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 277 1.6% 1.8%
High school diploma 4,149 23.4% 1.2%
College diploma 3,549 20% -4.7%
Associate degree 1,088 6.1% -3.3%
Bachelor's degree 5,360 30.2% 0.3%
Graduate degree 3,334 18.8% 1.6%
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 Darien

How much people earn in Darien

The average annual household income in Darien was $140,352 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $111,215, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Darien
$140,352/year
5.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Darien
$111,215/year
1.7% year-over-year change

Darien income by age

In Darien, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $132,724. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $121,338 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $89,778, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $93,421 in earnings. Overall, 95.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $89,778 -9.2%
25 - 44 $132,724 9.1%
45 - 64 $121,338 1.7%
Over 65 $93,421 2.6%
Above poverty level
20,731
Below poverty level
919
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,731 95.8% -0.4%
Below poverty level 919 4.2% 9.9%

Average renter income in Darien

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Darien, their median household income was $74,722 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$74,722
Rent-to-income ratio
29.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Darien

Workforce and job types in Darien

The job market in Darien is powered by 11,409 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14% run their own businesses, 66.6% are employed by private companies, and 11.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,409
-1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
9,609
Blue collar
1,800
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,609 84.2% -0.8%
Blue collar 1,800 15.8% -4.3%
Employer type
Self employees
14%
Private companies
66.6%
Governmental workers
11.4%
Not for profit companies
8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,591 14% 6.1%
Private companies 7,600 66.6% -4.1%
Governmental workers 1,304 11.4% -2.8%
Not for profit companies 914 8% 13.5%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-3.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Darien stands at 3.9%, 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 Darien

How people get around in Darien

Commuting methods vary: 74.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% 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 8,419 74.6% -3.8%
Taxicab 17 0.2% 54.5%
Bus or trolleybus 38 0.3% -26.9%
Railroad 235 2.1% 4.9%
Ferryboat 22 0.2% -12.0%
Bicycle 6 0% 0.0%
Walk 119 1% 52.6%
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 Darien by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60561 23,069 9,193 $112,549 $141,265

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FAQs about Darien demographics 

What is the total population of Darien?

Darien has a total population of 21,879 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 Darien?

The gender ratio in Darien is as follows:
  • 49% males (10,710 residents)
  • 51% females (11,169 residents)

What is the median age in Darien?

The median age in Darien is 44.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Darien?

The age distribution in Darien is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.5% (3,606 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (2,161 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (5,344 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (5,444 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.3% (5,324 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Darien?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Darien is as follows:
  • White: 75.1% (16,435 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.9% (643 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (53 residents)
  • Asian: 12.1% (2,649 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.2% (1,802 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (297 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 79.8% of the population in Darien.

How many housing units are there in Darien?

There are 8,950 housing units in Darien, reflecting a -1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Darien has a total of 8,735 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Darien?

Darien has a median household income of $111,215, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Darien?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Darien, with a workforce of 11,409 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.2% (9,609 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.8% (1,800 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14% (1,591 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.6% (7,600 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.4% (1,304 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8% (914 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