Des Plaines, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
59,156
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$97,875/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,856
-0.5% year-over-year change

Des Plaines population

How many people live in Des Plaines

Des Plaines is home to 59,156 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Des Plaines locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
59,156
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
29,002
Female
51%
30,154
Value Percent YoY change
Male 29,002 49% 0.2%
Female 30,154 51% -1.0%
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 Des Plaines is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 10.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.4% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
10.4%
25 to 44
26.4%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
20.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,812 16.6% 1.1%
15 to 24 6,182 10.4% -4.4%
25 to 44 15,591 26.4% 4.6%
45 to 64 15,287 25.8% -5.7%
Over 65 12,284 20.8% 1.4%
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 Des Plaines, 64.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 23.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 56.9% of locals are Caucasian, 4% are African American and 14.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 15.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
64.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
23.6%
Non-citizens
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 38,151 64.5% -2.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 13,951 23.6% 3.1%
Non-citizens 7,054 11.9% 6.3%
Racial breakdown
White
56.9%
Black or African American
4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
14.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
15.6%
Other
7.6%
Value Percent
White 33,685 56.9%
Black or African American 2,396 4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 479 0.8%
Asian 8,832 14.9%
Two or more races 9,249 15.6%
Other 4,515 7.6%

Households in Des Plaines

A peek inside Des Plaines households

Des Plaines has 22,537 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70% are families, while the remaining 30% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
22,537
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
6,769
Family households
15,768
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,769 30% -4.3%
Family households 15,768 70% 1.7%
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 Des Plaines

The housing landscape of Des Plaines

Des Plaines's housing consists of 23,856 units, with 58.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.2% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
23,856
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,022 58.8%
1 unit, attached 1,961 8.2%
2 units 131 0.6%
3 or 4 units 469 2%
5 to 9 units 840 3.5%
10 to 19 units 1,117 4.7%
20 to 49 units 2,197 9.2%
50 or more units 2,512 10.5%
Mobile home 607 2.5%
Homes built since 2020
174
163.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Des Plaines

In Des Plaines, the median construction year is 1966. About 9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.7% 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 2,135 9% -0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,505 6.3% 6.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,993 20.9% -0.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,370 22.5% -3.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,926 12.3% 3.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,884 7.9% 9.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,774 7.4% -9.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,725 7.2% -12.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,370 5.7% 3.8%
Built in 2020 or later 174 0.7% 163.6%
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.

Des Plaines occupancy rates

Out of the 22,537 occupied housing units in Des Plaines, 78.3% are owner-occupied, while 21.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
22,537
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,892
Owner occupied
17,645
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,892 21.7% 5.1%
Owner occupied 17,645 78.3% -1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
5.5%
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.

Des Plaines housing costs

Housing costs in Des Plaines come to a median of $1,591 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,606.

Median housing costs per month
$1,591/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 Des Plaines
$1,606/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 Des Plaines

Des Plaines education at a glance

About 27% of the population in Des Plaines went to high school, while 20.4% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 24.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,929 6.2% -6.0%
High school diploma 12,690 27% -3.2%
College diploma 9,623 20.4% -1.2%
Associate degree 4,227 9% 6.6%
Bachelor's degree 11,630 24.7% 1.0%
Graduate degree 5,965 12.7% 0.8%
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 Des Plaines

How much people earn in Des Plaines

The average annual household income in Des Plaines was $118,116 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $97,875, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Des Plaines
$118,116/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Des Plaines
$97,875/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Des Plaines income by age

In Des Plaines, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $115,189. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $113,157 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $63,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,656 in earnings. Overall, 94% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $63,750 -9.0%
25 - 44 $115,189 3.5%
45 - 64 $113,157 4.0%
Over 65 $65,656 -0.8%
Above poverty level
54,218
Below poverty level
3,450
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 54,218 94% -0.4%
Below poverty level 3,450 6% 3.4%

Average renter income in Des Plaines

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Des Plaines, their median household income was $59,965 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$59,965
Rent-to-income ratio
32.1%
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 Des Plaines

Workforce and job types in Des Plaines

The job market in Des Plaines is powered by 30,500 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.3% run their own businesses, 70.4% are employed by private companies, and 9.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
30,500
-0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
23,212
Blue collar
7,288
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 23,212 76.1% 0.4%
Blue collar 7,288 23.9% -3.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.3%
Private companies
70.4%
Governmental workers
9.3%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,129 10.3% 3.8%
Private companies 21,462 70.4% -2.7%
Governmental workers 2,832 9.3% 3.5%
Not for profit companies 3,077 10.1% 6.7%
Unemployment rate
4.1%
-10.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Des Plaines stands at 4.1%, 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 Des Plaines

How people get around in Des Plaines

In Des Plaines, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,407 78.6% -3.6%
Taxicab 134 0.4% 1,016.7%
Bus or trolleybus 273 0.9% -25.8%
Subway or elevated 342 1.2% N/A
Railroad 566 1.9% 4.0%
Motorcycle 23 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 118 0.4% -35.2%
Walk 418 1.4% -20.4%
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 Des Plaines by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60016 60,898 23,854 $86,571 $112,011
60018 27,952 9,589 $90,574 $107,883

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FAQs about Des Plaines demographics 

What is the total population of Des Plaines?

Des Plaines has a total population of 59,156 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Des Plaines?

The gender ratio in Des Plaines is as follows:
  • 49% males (29,002 residents)
  • 51% females (30,154 residents)

What is the median age in Des Plaines?

The median age in Des Plaines is 42.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Des Plaines?

The age distribution in Des Plaines is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (9,812 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.4% (6,182 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.4% (15,591 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (15,287 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.8% (12,284 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Des Plaines?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Des Plaines is as follows:
  • White: 56.9% (33,685 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4% (2,396 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (479 residents)
  • Asian: 14.9% (8,832 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.6% (9,249 residents)
  • Other: 7.6% (4,515 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 64.5% of the population in Des Plaines.

How many housing units are there in Des Plaines?

There are 23,856 housing units in Des Plaines, reflecting a -0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Des Plaines has a total of 22,537 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Des Plaines?

Des Plaines has a median household income of $97,875, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Des Plaines?

The employment rate is 95.9% in Des Plaines, with a workforce of 30,500 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.1% (23,212 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.9% (7,288 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.3% (3,129 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.4% (21,462 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.3% (2,832 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (3,077 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