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

Total population
34,522
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,404/yr
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,413
0.5% year-over-year change

Effingham County population

How many people live in Effingham County

Effingham County is home to 34,522 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Effingham County locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
34,522
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
17,461
Female
49.4%
17,061
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,461 50.6% 0.3%
Female 17,061 49.4% -0.2%
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 Effingham County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
40
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,828 19.8% -1.1%
15 to 24 3,851 11.2% -0.9%
25 to 44 8,719 25.3% 1.3%
45 to 64 8,623 25% -1.7%
Over 65 6,501 18.8% 2.7%
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 Effingham County, 98% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 33,819 98% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 394 1.1% 5.3%
Non-citizens 309 0.9% -29.1%
Racial breakdown
White
95.8%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.2%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 33,062 95.8%
Black or African American 101 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 0.1%
Asian 297 0.9%
Two or more races 759 2.2%
Other 278 0.8%

Households in Effingham County

A peek inside Effingham County households

Effingham County has 13,951 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.2% are families, while the remaining 34.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,951
-0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,849
Family households
9,102
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,849 34.8% 3.1%
Family households 9,102 65.2% -2.4%
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 Effingham County

The housing landscape of Effingham County

Effingham County's housing consists of 15,413 units, with 78.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 7.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,413
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,138 78.8%
1 unit, attached 231 1.5%
2 units 388 2.5%
3 or 4 units 457 3%
5 to 9 units 502 3.3%
10 to 19 units 249 1.6%
20 to 49 units 254 1.6%
50 or more units 82 0.5%
Mobile home 1,106 7.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
218
37.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Effingham County

In Effingham County, the median construction year is 1978. About 13.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,020 13.1% -10.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 846 5.5% 3.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,378 8.9% 7.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,277 8.3% 9.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,840 18.4% 6.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,690 11% -6.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,124 13.8% -9.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,667 10.8% 10.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,353 8.8% 2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 218 1.4% 37.1%
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.

Effingham County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,951 occupied housing units in Effingham County, 78.2% are owner-occupied, while 21.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,951
-0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,035
Owner occupied
10,916
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,035 21.8% -1.3%
Owner occupied 10,916 78.2% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
9.5%
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.

Effingham County housing costs

Housing costs in Effingham County come to a median of $908 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $733.

Median housing costs per month
$908/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 Effingham County
$733/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 Effingham County

Effingham County education at a glance

About 36% of the population in Effingham County went to high school, while 20.6% pursued college studies. Another 14.9% earned an associate degree and 17.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 735 2.8% -2.9%
High school diploma 9,452 36% -2.3%
College diploma 5,416 20.6% -2.4%
Associate degree 3,909 14.9% 5.0%
Bachelor's degree 4,577 17.4% 2.0%
Graduate degree 2,168 8.3% 10.5%
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 Effingham County

How much people earn in Effingham County

The average annual household income in Effingham County was $99,682 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,404, reflecting a +6.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Effingham County
$99,682/year
4.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Effingham County
$80,404/year
6.7% year-over-year change

Effingham County income by age

In Effingham County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $93,036. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $98,668 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $64,327, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,511 in earnings. Overall, 90% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $64,327 4.0%
25 - 44 $93,036 9.3%
45 - 64 $98,668 7.7%
Over 65 $57,511 1.9%
Above poverty level
30,329
Below poverty level
3,368
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,329 90% 0.6%
Below poverty level 3,368 10% -4.3%

Employment in Effingham County

Workforce and job types in Effingham County

The job market in Effingham County is powered by 17,478 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.2% run their own businesses, 70.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,478
2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
12,605
Blue collar
4,873
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,605 72.1% 2.6%
Blue collar 4,873 27.9% 1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.2%
Private companies
70.2%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,950 11.2% 26.4%
Private companies 12,265 70.2% 0.0%
Governmental workers 2,081 11.9% 6.0%
Not for profit companies 1,182 6.8% -12.1%
Unemployment rate
2.1%
-4.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Effingham County stands at 2.1%, 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 Effingham County

How people get around in Effingham County

In Effingham County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 14,737 85.2% 1.4%
Taxicab 39 0.2% 34.5%
Bus or trolleybus 30 0.2% -41.2%
Motorcycle 22 0.1% 100.0%
Bicycle 47 0.3% 235.7%
Walk 303 1.8% -15.8%
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 Effingham County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
62401 19,273 8,042 $82,374 $103,463
62411 4,249 1,654 $66,111 $81,770
62414 1,783 726 $58,370 $74,402
62424 2,500 851 $84,635 $101,252
62426 778 410 $51,667 $66,672
62443 1,609 618 $86,950 $88,189
62445 986 381 $81,484 $85,166
62458 2,176 816 $48,810 $65,253
62461 625 289 $74,350 $84,506
62467 3,710 1,476 $96,406 $123,316

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FAQs about Effingham County demographics 

What is the total population of Effingham County?

Effingham County has a total population of 34,522 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Effingham County?

The gender ratio in Effingham County is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (17,461 residents)
  • 49.4% females (17,061 residents)

What is the median age in Effingham County?

The median age in Effingham County is 40.

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

The age distribution in Effingham County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (6,828 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (3,851 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (8,719 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (8,623 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (6,501 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Effingham County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Effingham County is as follows:
  • White: 95.8% (33,062 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (101 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (297 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.2% (759 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (278 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98% of the population in Effingham County.

How many housing units are there in Effingham County?

There are 15,413 housing units in Effingham County, 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 Effingham County and what is the average household size?

Effingham County has a total of 13,951 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Effingham County?

Effingham County has a median household income of $80,404, representing a +6.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.9% in Effingham County, with a workforce of 17,478 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.1% (12,605 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.9% (4,873 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.2% (1,950 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.2% (12,265 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (2,081 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.8% (1,182 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