Ford Heights, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,331
-16.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$36,053/yr
5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
816
-8.1% year-over-year change

Ford Heights population

How many people live in Ford Heights

Ford Heights is home to 1,331 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43.4% of Ford Heights locals are male, and 56.6% are female.

Total population
1,331
-16.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43.4%
578
Female
56.6%
753
Value Percent YoY change
Male 578 43.4% -25.3%
Female 753 56.6% -7.4%
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 Ford Heights is 52, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.3% are children under 15, then 7.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 33.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
52.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.3%
15 to 24
7.3%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
33.2%
Over 65
24.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 137 10.3% -51.8%
15 to 24 97 7.3% -23.6%
25 to 44 329 24.7% -19.0%
45 to 64 442 33.2% -2.0%
Over 65 326 24.5% 2.2%
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 Ford Heights, 99% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. As for race, 3.6% of locals are Caucasian, 95.3% are African American and 1% have Asian roots.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,317 99% -17.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 14 1% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
3.6%
Black or African American
95.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
0%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 48 3.6%
Black or African American 1,269 95.3%
Asian 14 1%

Households in Ford Heights

A peek inside Ford Heights households

Ford Heights has 562 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.4% are families, while the remaining 43.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
562
-8.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
245
Family households
317
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 245 43.6% -2.4%
Family households 317 56.4% -12.4%
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 Ford Heights

The housing landscape of Ford Heights

Ford Heights's housing consists of 816 units, with 76.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
816
-8.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 621 76.1%
1 unit, attached 98 12%
2 units 56 6.9%
3 or 4 units 22 2.7%
5 to 9 units 8 1%
10 to 19 units 3 0.4%
20 to 49 units 8 1%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ford Heights

In Ford Heights, the median construction year is 1965. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 33 4% -10.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 16 2% 33.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 194 23.8% -10.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 329 40.3% 1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 126 15.4% -8.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 15 1.8% -50.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 31 3.8% 3.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 72 8.8% -27.3%
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.

Ford Heights occupancy rates

Out of the 562 occupied housing units in Ford Heights, 51.2% are owner-occupied, while 48.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 31.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
562
-8.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
274
Owner occupied
288
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 274 48.8% -20.4%
Owner occupied 288 51.2% 7.1%
Unoccupied housing units
31.1%
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.

Ford Heights housing costs

Housing costs in Ford Heights come to a median of $996 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,056.

Median housing costs per month
$996/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 Ford Heights
$1,056/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 Ford Heights

Ford Heights education at a glance

About 65.8% of the population in Ford Heights went to high school, while 17.6% pursued college studies. Another 2.7% earned an associate degree and 7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 56 4.9% 14.3%
High school diploma 757 65.8% -2.6%
College diploma 202 17.6% -23.2%
Associate degree 31 2.7% -18.4%
Bachelor's degree 80 7% -20.8%
Graduate degree 25 2.2% 525.0%
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 Ford Heights

How much people earn in Ford Heights

The average annual household income in Ford Heights was $42,133 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $36,053, reflecting a +5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ford Heights
$42,133/year
10.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ford Heights
$36,053/year
5.0% year-over-year change

Ford Heights income by age

In Ford Heights, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $21,184. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,389 overall. Overall, 73.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $21,184 15.0%
45 - 64 $51,389 22.5%
Over 65 $22,794 -12.3%
Above poverty level
968
Below poverty level
354
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 968 73.2% 3.6%
Below poverty level 354 26.8% -42.7%

Average renter income in Ford Heights

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Ford Heights, their median household income was $29,330 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 43.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,330
Rent-to-income ratio
43.2%
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 Ford Heights

Workforce and job types in Ford Heights

The job market in Ford Heights is powered by 429 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 41.5% are employed by private companies, and 16.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
429
-5.1% year-over-year change
White collar
274
Blue collar
155
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 274 63.9% 3.0%
Blue collar 155 36.1% -16.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
41.5%
Governmental workers
16.1%
Not for profit companies
32.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 42 9.8% -12.5%
Private companies 178 41.5% -12.8%
Governmental workers 69 16.1% 72.5%
Not for profit companies 140 32.6% -12.5%
Unemployment rate
13.9%
23.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ford Heights stands at 13.9%, 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 Ford Heights

How people get around in Ford Heights

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 371 88.3% -2.9%
Bus or trolleybus 38 9% -2.6%
Railroad 11 2.6% -8.3%
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 Ford Heights by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60411 52,175 18,348 $62,073 $78,751

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FAQs about Ford Heights demographics 

What is the total population of Ford Heights?

Ford Heights has a total population of 1,331 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 -16.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ford Heights?

The gender ratio in Ford Heights is as follows:
  • 43.4% males (578 residents)
  • 56.6% females (753 residents)

What is the median age in Ford Heights?

The median age in Ford Heights is 52.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ford Heights?

The age distribution in Ford Heights is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.3% (137 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.3% (97 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (329 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 33.2% (442 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.5% (326 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ford Heights?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ford Heights is as follows:
  • White: 3.6% (48 residents)
  • Black or African American: 95.3% (1,269 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (14 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 0% (0 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99% of the population in Ford Heights.

How many housing units are there in Ford Heights?

There are 816 housing units in Ford Heights, reflecting a -8.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ford Heights has a total of 562 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ford Heights?

Ford Heights has a median household income of $36,053, representing a +5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Ford Heights?

The employment rate is 86.1% in Ford Heights, with a workforce of 429 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.9% (274 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.1% (155 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (42 residents)
  • Private companies: 41.5% (178 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.1% (69 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 32.6% (140 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