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

Total population
21,315
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,944/yr
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,808
-0.5% year-over-year change

Fayette County population

How many people live in Fayette County

Fayette County is home to 21,315 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.1% of Fayette County locals are male, and 47.9% are female.

Total population
21,315
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.1%
11,098
Female
47.9%
10,217
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,098 52.1% -1.0%
Female 10,217 47.9% 0.5%
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 Fayette County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,630 17% -0.1%
15 to 24 2,594 12.2% -1.5%
25 to 44 5,349 25.1% 0.3%
45 to 64 5,578 26.2% -1.7%
Over 65 4,164 19.5% 1.3%
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 Fayette County, 98.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.8% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.7%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,087 98.9% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 141 0.7% -45.6%
Non-citizens 87 0.4% -19.4%
Racial breakdown
White
88.8%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.1%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 18,936 88.8%
Black or African American 692 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 71 0.3%
Asian 33 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0.1%
Two or more races 1,506 7.1%
Other 65 0.3%

Households in Fayette County

A peek inside Fayette County households

Fayette County has 7,814 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,814
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,892
Family households
4,922
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,892 37% 3.6%
Family households 4,922 63% -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 Fayette County

The housing landscape of Fayette County

Fayette County's housing consists of 8,808 units, with 80% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.1% 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 11.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,808
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,051 80%
1 unit, attached 94 1.1%
2 units 63 0.7%
3 or 4 units 297 3.4%
5 to 9 units 116 1.3%
10 to 19 units 17 0.2%
20 to 49 units 44 0.5%
50 or more units 71 0.8%
Mobile home 1,047 11.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
30
-9.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fayette County

In Fayette County, the median construction year is 1972. About 21.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,912 21.7% -3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 492 5.6% -1.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 954 10.8% -7.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 813 9.2% -4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,425 16.2% 9.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 886 10.1% 5.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,084 12.3% 0.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 740 8.4% -0.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 472 5.4% -0.8%
Built in 2020 or later 30 0.3% -9.1%
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.

Fayette County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,814 occupied housing units in Fayette County, 80.6% are owner-occupied, while 19.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,814
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,515
Owner occupied
6,299
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,515 19.4% -2.3%
Owner occupied 6,299 80.6% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
11.3%
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.

Fayette County housing costs

Housing costs in Fayette County come to a median of $747 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $798.

Median housing costs per month
$747/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 Fayette County
$798/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 Fayette County

Fayette County education at a glance

About 49.6% of the population in Fayette County went to high school, while 20.1% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 11.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 681 4% -4.2%
High school diploma 8,408 49.6% -0.3%
College diploma 3,413 20.1% -1.3%
Associate degree 1,802 10.6% -1.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,888 11.1% 4.0%
Graduate degree 768 4.5% 1.9%
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 Fayette County

How much people earn in Fayette County

The average annual household income in Fayette County was $80,392 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,944, reflecting a +6.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fayette County
$80,392/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fayette County
$60,944/year
6.7% year-over-year change

Fayette County income by age

In Fayette County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,135. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,373 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,333, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,586 in earnings. Overall, 84.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,333 27.2%
25 - 44 $63,135 4.6%
45 - 64 $78,373 9.0%
Over 65 $40,586 6.9%
Above poverty level
16,809
Below poverty level
3,055
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,809 84.6% 1.3%
Below poverty level 3,055 15.4% -6.1%

Employment in Fayette County

Workforce and job types in Fayette County

The job market in Fayette County is powered by 9,166 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13% run their own businesses, 68.2% are employed by private companies, and 14.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,166
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,263
Blue collar
2,903
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,263 68.3% -0.2%
Blue collar 2,903 31.7% 6.2%
Employer type
Self employees
13%
Private companies
68.2%
Governmental workers
14.7%
Not for profit companies
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,190 13% -1.6%
Private companies 6,255 68.2% 4.9%
Governmental workers 1,349 14.7% -9.8%
Not for profit companies 372 4.1% 8.8%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
14.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fayette County stands at 3.8%, 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 Fayette County

How people get around in Fayette County

Commuting methods vary: 89.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 8,119 89.7% 1.2%
Taxicab 9 0.1% -30.8%
Bus or trolleybus 13 0.1% 0.0%
Railroad 6 0.1% -14.3%
Ferryboat 4 0% 0.0%
Walk 143 1.6% -12.3%
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 Fayette County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
62080 3,255 1,030 $67,717 $75,466
62253 932 328 $47,000 $65,227
62262 1,967 775 $65,089 $80,946
62011 227 89 $49,821 $52,300
62414 1,783 726 $58,370 $74,402
62418 1,809 674 $58,448 $76,046
62422 926 371 $75,074 $82,429
62426 778 410 $51,667 $66,672
62431 717 310 $64,904 $81,257
62458 2,176 816 $48,810 $65,253

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FAQs about Fayette County demographics 

What is the total population of Fayette County?

Fayette County has a total population of 21,315 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fayette County?

The gender ratio in Fayette County is as follows:
  • 52.1% males (11,098 residents)
  • 47.9% females (10,217 residents)

What is the median age in Fayette County?

The median age in Fayette County is 41.9.

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

The age distribution in Fayette County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (3,630 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (2,594 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (5,349 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (5,578 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.5% (4,164 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fayette County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fayette County is as follows:
  • White: 88.8% (18,936 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (692 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (71 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (33 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.1% (1,506 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (65 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.9% of the population in Fayette County.

How many housing units are there in Fayette County?

There are 8,808 housing units in Fayette 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 Fayette County and what is the average household size?

Fayette County has a total of 7,814 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fayette County?

Fayette County has a median household income of $60,944, 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 Fayette County?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Fayette County, with a workforce of 9,166 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.3% (6,263 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.7% (2,903 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13% (1,190 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.2% (6,255 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.7% (1,349 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.1% (372 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