Fairbury, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,713
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,962/yr
8.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,615
-1.0% year-over-year change

Fairbury population

How many people live in Fairbury

Fairbury is home to 3,713 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.4% of Fairbury locals are male, and 53.6% are female.

Total population
3,713
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.4%
1,721
Female
53.6%
1,992
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,721 46.4% 4.0%
Female 1,992 53.6% -1.8%
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 Fairbury is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 25.1% are children under 15, then 10.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 18.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
25.1%
15 to 24
10.7%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
18.7%
Over 65
20.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 931 25.1% 17.4%
15 to 24 397 10.7% -24.7%
25 to 44 938 25.3% 15.8%
45 to 64 693 18.7% -13.4%
Over 65 754 20.3% 0.1%
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 Fairbury, 98.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 3.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.3%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,665 98.7% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 48 1.3% 0.0%
Racial breakdown
White
96.1%
Black or African American
0.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.4%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 3,568 96.1%
Black or African American 5 0.1%
Two or more races 127 3.4%
Other 13 0.4%

Households in Fairbury

A peek inside Fairbury households

Fairbury has 1,502 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 74.8% are families, while the remaining 25.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,502
-2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
379
Family households
1,123
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 379 25.2% -11.2%
Family households 1,123 74.8% 1.4%
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 Fairbury

The housing landscape of Fairbury

Fairbury's housing consists of 1,615 units, with 76.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% 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 1.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,615
-1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,232 76.3%
1 unit, attached 6 0.4%
2 units 77 4.8%
3 or 4 units 89 5.5%
5 to 9 units 59 3.6%
10 to 19 units 68 4.2%
20 to 49 units 52 3.2%
50 or more units 14 0.9%
Mobile home 18 1.1%
Homes built since 2020
54
1.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fairbury

In Fairbury, the median construction year is 1965. About 21.7% 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, 6.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 351 21.7% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 73 4.5% -11.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 255 15.8% -21.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 269 16.7% 0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 249 15.4% 49.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 79 4.9% -52.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 106 6.6% -0.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 107 6.6% 87.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 72 4.5% 38.5%
Built in 2020 or later 54 3.3% 1.9%
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.

Fairbury occupancy rates

Out of the 1,502 occupied housing units in Fairbury, 68.2% are owner-occupied, while 31.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,502
-2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
477
Owner occupied
1,025
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 477 31.8% -4.6%
Owner occupied 1,025 68.2% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
7.0%
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.

Fairbury housing costs

Housing costs in Fairbury come to a median of $873 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $776.

Median housing costs per month
$873/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 Fairbury
$776/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 Fairbury

Fairbury education at a glance

About 39.6% of the population in Fairbury went to high school, while 19% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 20.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 116 4.4% -13.4%
High school diploma 1,045 39.6% -13.3%
College diploma 500 19% 7.3%
Associate degree 280 10.6% -12.5%
Bachelor's degree 543 20.6% 24.5%
Graduate degree 155 5.9% 142.2%
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 Fairbury

How much people earn in Fairbury

The average annual household income in Fairbury was $90,749 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,962, reflecting a +8.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fairbury
$90,749/year
8.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fairbury
$70,962/year
8.8% year-over-year change

Fairbury income by age

In Fairbury, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,000. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $102,835 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,479, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,786 in earnings. Overall, 97.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,479 N/A
25 - 44 $70,000 5.3%
45 - 64 $102,835 47.5%
Over 65 $56,786 27.3%
Above poverty level
3,500
Below poverty level
77
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,500 97.8% 0.6%
Below poverty level 77 2.2% -40.3%

Average renter income in Fairbury

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fairbury, their median household income was $42,396 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 22%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,396
Rent-to-income ratio
22%
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 Fairbury

Workforce and job types in Fairbury

The job market in Fairbury is powered by 1,712 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.6% run their own businesses, 57.9% are employed by private companies, and 15.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,712
4.8% year-over-year change
White collar
1,147
Blue collar
565
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,147 67% -0.6%
Blue collar 565 33% 17.7%
Employer type
Self employees
13.6%
Private companies
57.9%
Governmental workers
15.6%
Not for profit companies
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 233 13.6% 27.3%
Private companies 991 57.9% 4.5%
Governmental workers 268 15.6% -1.8%
Not for profit companies 220 12.8% -4.3%
Unemployment rate
0.9%
-79.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fairbury stands at 0.9%, 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 Fairbury

How people get around in Fairbury

Commuting methods vary: 87.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% 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 1,435 87.4% 10.6%
Railroad 15 0.9% 7.1%
Walk 43 2.6% -48.8%
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 Fairbury by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61739 4,628 1,813 $76,555 $95,969

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FAQs about Fairbury demographics 

What is the total population of Fairbury?

Fairbury has a total population of 3,713 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fairbury?

The gender ratio in Fairbury is as follows:
  • 46.4% males (1,721 residents)
  • 53.6% females (1,992 residents)

What is the median age in Fairbury?

The median age in Fairbury is 33.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fairbury?

The age distribution in Fairbury is as follows:
  • Under 15: 25.1% (931 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.7% (397 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (938 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.7% (693 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.3% (754 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fairbury?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fairbury is as follows:
  • White: 96.1% (3,568 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.4% (127 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (13 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.7% of the population in Fairbury.

How many housing units are there in Fairbury?

There are 1,615 housing units in Fairbury, reflecting a -1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fairbury has a total of 1,502 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fairbury?

Fairbury has a median household income of $70,962, representing a +8.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fairbury?

The employment rate is 99.1% in Fairbury, with a workforce of 1,712 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67% (1,147 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33% (565 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.6% (233 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.9% (991 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.6% (268 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.8% (220 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