Greater Kankakee, East Illinois, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
67,332
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,906/yr
-5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
28,609
0.2% year-over-year change

Kankakee population

How many people live in Kankakee

Kankakee is home to 67,332 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Kankakee locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
67,332
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
33,243
Female
50.6%
34,089
Value Percent YoY change
Male 33,243 49.4% 0.2%
Female 34,089 50.6% -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 Kankakee is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 15.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
15.4%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
16.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,153 18% -1.6%
15 to 24 10,339 15.4% -1.9%
25 to 44 17,261 25.6% 1.2%
45 to 64 16,494 24.5% -2.8%
Over 65 11,085 16.5% 3.4%
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 Kankakee, 92.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 70.6% of locals are Caucasian, 16.1% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.8%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 62,566 92.9% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,527 3.8% 2.6%
Non-citizens 2,239 3.3% -0.8%
Racial breakdown
White
70.6%
Black or African American
16.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.1%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 47,528 70.6%
Black or African American 10,868 16.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 204 0.3%
Asian 864 1.3%
Two or more races 5,442 8.1%
Other 2,426 3.6%

Households in Kankakee

A peek inside Kankakee households

Kankakee has 25,749 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.8% are families, while the remaining 36.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
25,749
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,329
Family households
16,420
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,329 36.2% 1.4%
Family households 16,420 63.8% 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 Kankakee

The housing landscape of Kankakee

Kankakee's housing consists of 28,609 units, with 71.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% 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 5.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
28,609
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 20,397 71.3%
1 unit, attached 1,068 3.7%
2 units 993 3.5%
3 or 4 units 1,572 5.5%
5 to 9 units 1,463 5.1%
10 to 19 units 648 2.3%
20 to 49 units 167 0.6%
50 or more units 774 2.7%
Mobile home 1,525 5.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
182
355.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kankakee

In Kankakee, the median construction year is 1963. About 14.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.3% 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 4,038 14.1% -5.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,049 7.2% -5.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,782 13.2% 0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,377 15.3% 1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,797 20.3% 1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,727 6% -9.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,281 8% 8.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,143 11% 1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,233 4.3% 8.6%
Built in 2020 or later 182 0.6% 355.0%
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.

Kankakee occupancy rates

Out of the 25,749 occupied housing units in Kankakee, 67.5% are owner-occupied, while 32.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
25,749
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,364
Owner occupied
17,385
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,364 32.5% -3.3%
Owner occupied 17,385 67.5% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.0%
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.

Kankakee housing costs

Housing costs in Kankakee come to a median of $1,033 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,045.

Median housing costs per month
$1,033/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 Kankakee
$1,045/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 Kankakee

Kankakee education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Kankakee went to high school, while 26.9% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 12.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,919 3.7% -1.8%
High school diploma 21,457 40.9% -4.1%
College diploma 14,104 26.9% 1.8%
Associate degree 4,859 9.3% 1.6%
Bachelor's degree 6,322 12.1% 9.0%
Graduate degree 3,752 7.2% -1.2%
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 Kankakee

How much people earn in Kankakee

The average annual household income in Kankakee was $86,060 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,906, reflecting a -5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kankakee
$86,060/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kankakee
$65,906/year
-5.0% year-over-year change

Kankakee income by age

In Kankakee, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,132. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,421 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,875, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,784 in earnings. Overall, 86.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,875 -28.0%
25 - 44 $77,132 10.2%
45 - 64 $93,421 4.6%
Over 65 $45,784 2.5%
Above poverty level
55,116
Below poverty level
8,468
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 55,116 86.7% 0.2%
Below poverty level 8,468 13.3% -4.9%

Average renter income in Kankakee

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kankakee, their median household income was $27,323 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,323
Rent-to-income ratio
45.9%
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 Kankakee

Workforce and job types in Kankakee

71.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 70.4% are employed by private companies, and 12.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
23,104
Blue collar
9,276
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 23,104 71.4% 0.1%
Blue collar 9,276 28.6% -0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
70.4%
Governmental workers
12.5%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,390 7.4% 8.1%
Private companies 22,783 70.4% -0.3%
Governmental workers 4,051 12.5% -4.5%
Not for profit companies 3,157 9.8% 1.4%

Transportation in Kankakee

How people get around in Kankakee

In Kankakee, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 95.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.5% 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
-4.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 27,546 95.1% -0.4%
Bus or trolleybus 280 1% -5.7%
Railroad 69 0.2% -15.8%
Bicycle 38 0.1% -53.1%
Walk 1,024 3.5% -6.1%
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 Kankakee by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60901 33,128 12,813 $58,309 $80,232
60910 582 220 $77,321 $102,560
60914 28,673 10,357 $86,223 $108,368
60915 9,979 4,155 $60,563 $74,468
60922 2,088 838 $62,000 $96,020
60954 5,742 2,277 $65,906 $80,072
60964 4,777 1,864 $82,083 $95,363

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FAQs about Kankakee demographics 

What is the total population of Kankakee?

Kankakee has a total population of 67,332 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 Kankakee?

The gender ratio in Kankakee is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (33,243 residents)
  • 50.6% females (34,089 residents)

What is the median age in Kankakee?

The median age in Kankakee is 40.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kankakee?

The age distribution in Kankakee is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (12,153 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.4% (10,339 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (17,261 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (16,494 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.5% (11,085 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kankakee?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kankakee is as follows:
  • White: 70.6% (47,528 residents)
  • Black or African American: 16.1% (10,868 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (204 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (864 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.1% (5,442 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (2,426 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.9% of the population in Kankakee.

How many housing units are there in Kankakee?

There are 28,609 housing units in Kankakee, 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 Kankakee and what is the average household size?

Kankakee has a total of 25,749 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kankakee?

Kankakee has a median household income of $65,906, representing a -5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Kankakee?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.4% (23,104 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.6% (9,276 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (2,390 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.4% (22,783 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.5% (4,051 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (3,157 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