Downers Grove, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
50,054
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$115,114/yr
-3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,527
1.2% year-over-year change

Downers Grove population

How many people live in Downers Grove

Downers Grove is home to 50,054 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.1% of Downers Grove locals are male, and 51.9% are female.

Total population
50,054
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.1%
24,063
Female
51.9%
25,991
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,063 48.1% -0.3%
Female 25,991 51.9% 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 Downers Grove is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 9.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 27.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
9.2%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
27.3%
Over 65
21%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,092 18.2% 1.0%
15 to 24 4,600 9.2% -12.5%
25 to 44 12,206 24.4% 1.2%
45 to 64 13,666 27.3% -0.5%
Over 65 10,490 21% 6.8%
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 Downers Grove, 89% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.1% of locals are Caucasian, 2.8% are African American and 5.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.7%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 44,563 89% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,836 7.7% 3.8%
Non-citizens 1,655 3.3% -8.0%
Racial breakdown
White
83.1%
Black or African American
2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
5.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 41,577 83.1%
Black or African American 1,398 2.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3 0%
Asian 2,847 5.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 13 0%
Two or more races 3,492 7%
Other 724 1.4%

Households in Downers Grove

A peek inside Downers Grove households

Downers Grove has 20,662 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.5% are families, while the remaining 34.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,662
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,130
Family households
13,532
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,130 34.5% 0.6%
Family households 13,532 65.5% 2.0%
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 Downers Grove

The housing landscape of Downers Grove

Downers Grove's housing consists of 21,527 units, with 62% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.6% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,527
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,344 62%
1 unit, attached 1,631 7.6%
2 units 115 0.5%
3 or 4 units 477 2.2%
5 to 9 units 949 4.4%
10 to 19 units 1,191 5.5%
20 to 49 units 1,391 6.5%
50 or more units 2,281 10.6%
Mobile home 148 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
134
27.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Downers Grove

In Downers Grove, the median construction year is 1974. About 8.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,898 8.8% 0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 528 2.4% -13.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,851 13.2% -1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,452 16% 2.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,082 23.6% 5.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,722 12.6% -4.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,670 7.8% 1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,872 8.7% 9.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,318 6.1% -2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 134 0.6% 27.6%
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.

Downers Grove occupancy rates

Out of the 20,662 occupied housing units in Downers Grove, 75.2% are owner-occupied, while 24.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,662
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,114
Owner occupied
15,548
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,114 24.8% 1.7%
Owner occupied 15,548 75.2% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.0%
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.

Downers Grove housing costs

Housing costs in Downers Grove come to a median of $1,813 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,656.

Median housing costs per month
$1,813/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 Downers Grove
$1,656/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 Downers Grove

Downers Grove education at a glance

About 16.9% of the population in Downers Grove went to high school, while 18.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 32.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 587 1.5% 1.9%
High school diploma 6,608 16.9% -0.7%
College diploma 7,129 18.2% 5.0%
Associate degree 3,005 7.7% -0.7%
Bachelor's degree 12,853 32.9% -2.1%
Graduate degree 8,923 22.8% 1.0%
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 Downers Grove

How much people earn in Downers Grove

The average annual household income in Downers Grove was $162,508 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $115,114, reflecting a -3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Downers Grove
$162,508/year
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Downers Grove
$115,114/year
-3.8% year-over-year change

Downers Grove income by age

In Downers Grove, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $144,341. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $134,935 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $97,188, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,586 in earnings. Overall, 94.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $97,188 N/A
25 - 44 $144,341 -10.0%
45 - 64 $134,935 -0.1%
Over 65 $66,586 4.3%
Above poverty level
46,365
Below poverty level
2,684
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 46,365 94.5% 0.0%
Below poverty level 2,684 5.5% 11.1%

Average renter income in Downers Grove

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Downers Grove, their median household income was $55,878 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$55,878
Rent-to-income ratio
35.6%
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 Downers Grove

Workforce and job types in Downers Grove

The job market in Downers Grove is powered by 25,694 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 69.8% are employed by private companies, and 10.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
25,694
-1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
23,059
Blue collar
2,635
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 23,059 89.7% -1.8%
Blue collar 2,635 10.3% 0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
69.8%
Governmental workers
10.1%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,958 11.5% 4.9%
Private companies 17,922 69.8% -2.0%
Governmental workers 2,606 10.1% -5.3%
Not for profit companies 2,208 8.6% -1.6%
Unemployment rate
4.0%
0.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Downers Grove stands at 4%, 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 Downers Grove

How people get around in Downers Grove

In Downers Grove, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 65.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% 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
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,554 65.7% -2.6%
Taxicab 29 0.1% -6.5%
Bus or trolleybus 54 0.2% -14.3%
Subway or elevated 14 0.1% N/A
Railroad 1,721 6.8% -5.8%
Motorcycle 8 0% N/A
Bicycle 45 0.2% 15.4%
Walk 586 2.3% 35.6%
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 Downers Grove by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60515 29,762 12,288 $123,197 $176,346
60516 28,062 11,227 $115,480 $144,657

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FAQs about Downers Grove demographics 

What is the total population of Downers Grove?

Downers Grove has a total population of 50,054 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 Downers Grove?

The gender ratio in Downers Grove is as follows:
  • 48.1% males (24,063 residents)
  • 51.9% females (25,991 residents)

What is the median age in Downers Grove?

The median age in Downers Grove is 43.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Downers Grove?

The age distribution in Downers Grove is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (9,092 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.2% (4,600 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (12,206 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.3% (13,666 residents)
  • Over 65: 21% (10,490 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Downers Grove?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Downers Grove is as follows:
  • White: 83.1% (41,577 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.8% (1,398 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (3 residents)
  • Asian: 5.7% (2,847 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (13 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (3,492 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (724 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89% of the population in Downers Grove.

How many housing units are there in Downers Grove?

There are 21,527 housing units in Downers Grove, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Downers Grove has a total of 20,662 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Downers Grove?

Downers Grove has a median household income of $115,114, 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 Downers Grove?

The employment rate is 96% in Downers Grove, with a workforce of 25,694 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.7% (23,059 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.3% (2,635 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (2,958 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.8% (17,922 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.1% (2,606 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (2,208 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