East Saint Louis City, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,573
2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$35,346/yr
-3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,524
-2.1% year-over-year change

East Saint Louis population

How many people live in East Saint Louis

East Saint Louis is home to 11,573 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.4% of East Saint Louis locals are male, and 54.6% are female.

Total population
11,573
2.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.4%
5,256
Female
54.6%
6,317
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,256 45.4% 2.0%
Female 6,317 54.6% 2.8%
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 East Saint Louis is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,026 17.5% 8.5%
15 to 24 1,425 12.3% 0.6%
25 to 44 2,795 24.2% 9.5%
45 to 64 2,904 25.1% 1.9%
Over 65 2,422 20.9% -7.3%
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 East Saint Louis, 96.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 4.2% of locals are Caucasian, 87.6% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,141 96.3% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 271 2.3% 24.9%
Non-citizens 161 1.4% 11.0%
Racial breakdown
White
4.2%
Black or African American
87.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.6%
Other
2.9%
Value Percent
White 481 4.2%
Black or African American 10,135 87.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 71 0.6%
Asian 134 1.2%
Two or more races 412 3.6%
Other 340 2.9%

Households in East Saint Louis

A peek inside East Saint Louis households

East Saint Louis has 4,258 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 53% are families, while the remaining 47% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,258
-4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,000
Family households
2,258
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,000 47% -6.5%
Family households 2,258 53% -1.5%
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 East Saint Louis

The housing landscape of East Saint Louis

East Saint Louis's housing consists of 6,524 units, with 72.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.3% 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 2.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,524
-2.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,705 72.1%
1 unit, attached 84 1.3%
2 units 262 4%
3 or 4 units 694 10.6%
5 to 9 units 338 5.2%
10 to 19 units 45 0.7%
20 to 49 units 31 0.5%
50 or more units 228 3.5%
Mobile home 135 2.1%
Homes built since 2020
23
35.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in East Saint Louis

In East Saint Louis, the median construction year is 1956. About 24.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,619 24.8% 1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 768 11.8% 11.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,365 20.9% -6.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 741 11.4% -1.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 501 7.7% 5.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 363 5.6% -3.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 291 4.5% -26.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 619 9.5% -4.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 233 3.6% -5.7%
Built in 2020 or later 23 0.4% 35.3%
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.

East Saint Louis occupancy rates

Out of the 4,258 occupied housing units in East Saint Louis, 63.1% are owner-occupied, while 36.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 34.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,258
-4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,573
Owner occupied
2,685
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,573 36.9% -13.9%
Owner occupied 2,685 63.1% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
34.7%
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.

East Saint Louis housing costs

Housing costs in East Saint Louis come to a median of $634 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $831.

Median housing costs per month
$634/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 East Saint Louis
$831/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 East Saint Louis

East Saint Louis education at a glance

About 50% of the population in East Saint Louis went to high school, while 25.2% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 9.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 452 4.9% -13.7%
High school diploma 4,604 50% -1.2%
College diploma 2,319 25.2% 8.5%
Associate degree 460 5% -12.6%
Bachelor's degree 840 9.1% 11.6%
Graduate degree 528 5.7% 3.7%
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 East Saint Louis

How much people earn in East Saint Louis

The average annual household income in East Saint Louis was $53,339 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $35,346, reflecting a -3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in East Saint Louis
$53,339/year
10.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in East Saint Louis
$35,346/year
-3.9% year-over-year change

East Saint Louis income by age

In East Saint Louis, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $43,623. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $43,632 overall. Overall, 64.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $43,623 27.9%
45 - 64 $43,632 10.1%
Over 65 $34,983 27.6%
Above poverty level
7,322
Below poverty level
3,964
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,322 64.9% -0.7%
Below poverty level 3,964 35.1% 6.5%

Employment in East Saint Louis

Workforce and job types in East Saint Louis

The job market in East Saint Louis is powered by 3,835 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.4% run their own businesses, 70.1% are employed by private companies, and 18.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,835
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
2,640
Blue collar
1,195
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,640 68.8% -4.0%
Blue collar 1,195 31.2% 13.4%
Employer type
Self employees
4.4%
Private companies
70.1%
Governmental workers
18.5%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 167 4.4% -15.2%
Private companies 2,688 70.1% 2.6%
Governmental workers 709 18.5% 5.7%
Not for profit companies 271 7.1% -14.2%
Unemployment rate
19.3%
19.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in East Saint Louis stands at 19.3%, 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 East Saint Louis

How people get around in East Saint Louis

Commuting methods vary: 96.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.3% 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 3,076 96.6% -0.5%
Taxicab 6 0.2% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 67 2.1% -32.3%
Railroad 16 0.5% 433.3%
Motorcycle 6 0.2% -14.3%
Bicycle 5 0.2% -28.6%
Walk 10 0.3% -76.2%
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 East Saint Louis by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
62201 4,921 2,065 $27,437 $46,901
62203 5,465 1,843 $42,111 $57,241
62204 4,055 1,710 $35,346 $42,696
62205 6,459 2,276 $45,672 $63,220
62207 6,984 2,593 $29,845 $53,698

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FAQs about East Saint Louis demographics 

What is the total population of East Saint Louis?

East Saint Louis has a total population of 11,573 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 +2.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in East Saint Louis?

The gender ratio in East Saint Louis is as follows:
  • 45.4% males (5,256 residents)
  • 54.6% females (6,317 residents)

What is the median age in East Saint Louis?

The median age in East Saint Louis is 41.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in East Saint Louis?

The age distribution in East Saint Louis is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (2,026 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (1,425 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (2,795 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (2,904 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (2,422 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of East Saint Louis?

The racial and ethnic makeup of East Saint Louis is as follows:
  • White: 4.2% (481 residents)
  • Black or African American: 87.6% (10,135 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (71 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (134 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.6% (412 residents)
  • Other: 2.9% (340 residents)

What percentage of the population in East Saint Louis are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.3% of the population in East Saint Louis.

How many housing units are there in East Saint Louis?

There are 6,524 housing units in East Saint Louis, reflecting a -2.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in East Saint Louis and what is the average household size?

East Saint Louis has a total of 4,258 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in East Saint Louis?

East Saint Louis has a median household income of $35,346, representing a -3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for East Saint Louis?

The employment rate is 80.7% in East Saint Louis, with a workforce of 3,835 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.8% (2,640 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.2% (1,195 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.4% (167 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.1% (2,688 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.5% (709 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (271 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