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

Total population
19,751
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$77,320/yr
4.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,507
0.2% year-over-year change

Douglas County population

How many people live in Douglas County

Douglas County is home to 19,751 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Douglas County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
19,751
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
9,702
Female
50.9%
10,049
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,702 49.1% -0.3%
Female 10,049 50.9% 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 Douglas County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.1% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.1%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
18.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,963 20.1% 0.6%
15 to 24 2,462 12.5% -0.8%
25 to 44 4,988 25.2% 1.7%
45 to 64 4,659 23.6% -1.2%
Over 65 3,679 18.6% 1.0%
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 Douglas County, 95.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,826 95.3% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 449 2.3% 1.4%
Non-citizens 476 2.4% 11.0%
Racial breakdown
White
88.7%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 17,512 88.7%
Black or African American 282 1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 46 0.2%
Asian 82 0.4%
Two or more races 1,294 6.6%
Other 535 2.7%

Households in Douglas County

A peek inside Douglas County households

Douglas County has 7,765 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.8% are families, while the remaining 30.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,765
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,349
Family households
5,416
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,349 30.2% -1.4%
Family households 5,416 69.8% -0.4%
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 Douglas County

The housing landscape of Douglas County

Douglas County's housing consists of 8,507 units, with 86% 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
8,507
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,312 86%
1 unit, attached 257 3%
2 units 203 2.4%
3 or 4 units 81 1%
5 to 9 units 180 2.1%
10 to 19 units 14 0.2%
20 to 49 units 91 1.1%
50 or more units 31 0.4%
Mobile home 332 3.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
56
-1.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Douglas County

In Douglas County, the median construction year is 1967. About 25% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% 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, 4.9% 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 2,131 25% 0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 380 4.5% 11.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 966 11.4% -4.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,183 13.9% 19.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,161 13.6% -5.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 532 6.2% -4.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 995 11.7% 3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 684 8% -6.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 419 4.9% -15.3%
Built in 2020 or later 56 0.7% -1.8%
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.

Douglas County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,765 occupied housing units in Douglas County, 76.9% are owner-occupied, while 23.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,765
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,794
Owner occupied
5,971
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,794 23.1% 9.7%
Owner occupied 5,971 76.9% -3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
8.7%
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.

Douglas County housing costs

Housing costs in Douglas County come to a median of $913 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $848.

Median housing costs per month
$913/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 Douglas County
$848/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 Douglas County

Douglas County education at a glance

About 37.6% of the population in Douglas County went to high school, while 20.7% pursued college studies. Another 13.2% earned an associate degree and 12.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,410 9.5% -12.2%
High school diploma 5,598 37.6% 1.2%
College diploma 3,079 20.7% -1.7%
Associate degree 1,960 13.2% 6.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,875 12.6% -1.1%
Graduate degree 970 6.5% 15.6%
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 Douglas County

How much people earn in Douglas County

The average annual household income in Douglas County was $92,377 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 $77,320, reflecting a +4.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Douglas County
$92,377/year
5.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Douglas County
$77,320/year
4.2% year-over-year change

Douglas County income by age

In Douglas County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $85,637. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,238 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,625, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,341 in earnings. Overall, 91.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,625 -2.3%
25 - 44 $85,637 7.9%
45 - 64 $94,238 4.0%
Over 65 $55,341 9.5%
Above poverty level
17,379
Below poverty level
1,582
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,379 91.7% 0.5%
Below poverty level 1,582 8.3% -4.9%

Employment in Douglas County

Workforce and job types in Douglas County

The job market in Douglas County is powered by 9,832 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,832
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
6,221
Blue collar
3,611
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,221 63.3% 1.0%
Blue collar 3,611 36.7% 2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,084 11% 2.9%
Private companies 6,657 67.7% -0.3%
Governmental workers 1,379 14% 0.9%
Not for profit companies 712 7.2% 21.5%
Unemployment rate
2.5%
-18.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Douglas County stands at 2.5%, 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 Douglas County

How people get around in Douglas County

In Douglas County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.5% 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
20 min
-1.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,018 83.5% 0.2%
Taxicab 110 1.2% 23.6%
Bicycle 382 4% -8.8%
Walk 389 4% -2.8%
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 Douglas County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61852 172 102 $0 $101,589
61910 4,769 1,440 $88,538 $100,436
61911 4,508 1,738 $82,633 $90,193
61913 1,300 610 $65,500 $83,867
61919 728 332 $87,188 $89,339
61930 687 249 $79,531 $92,382
61941 168 65 $0 $0
61942 1,161 505 $76,884 $83,914
61943 1,396 707 $54,196 $71,308
61953 6,518 2,694 $78,214 $97,457

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Douglas County demographics 

What is the total population of Douglas County?

Douglas County has a total population of 19,751 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Douglas County?

The gender ratio in Douglas County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (9,702 residents)
  • 50.9% females (10,049 residents)

What is the median age in Douglas County?

The median age in Douglas County is 38.7.

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

The age distribution in Douglas County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.1% (3,963 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (2,462 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (4,988 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (4,659 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.6% (3,679 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Douglas County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Douglas County is as follows:
  • White: 88.7% (17,512 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (282 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (46 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (82 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (1,294 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (535 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.3% of the population in Douglas County.

How many housing units are there in Douglas County?

There are 8,507 housing units in Douglas 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 Douglas County and what is the average household size?

Douglas County has a total of 7,765 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Douglas County?

Douglas County has a median household income of $77,320, representing a +4.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.5% in Douglas County, with a workforce of 9,832 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.3% (6,221 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.7% (3,611 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (1,084 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (6,657 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (1,379 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (712 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