Harrisburg, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,372
-2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$43,415/yr
-10.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,046
-3.1% year-over-year change

Harrisburg population

How many people live in Harrisburg

Harrisburg is home to 8,372 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Harrisburg locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
8,372
-2.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
4,065
Female
51.4%
4,307
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,065 48.6% -2.9%
Female 4,307 51.4% -2.6%
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 Harrisburg is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.7% are children under 15, then 9.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 25.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.7%
15 to 24
9.7%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
25.2%
Over 65
20.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,652 19.7% -0.4%
15 to 24 812 9.7% -15.3%
25 to 44 2,075 24.8% -2.1%
45 to 64 2,106 25.2% 2.7%
Over 65 1,727 20.6% -5.1%
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 Harrisburg, 99.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. As for race, 92.5% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,293 99.1% -3.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 79 0.9% 163.3%
Racial breakdown
White
92.5%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.5%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 7,741 92.5%
Black or African American 285 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0%
Asian 9 0.1%
Two or more races 291 3.5%
Other 44 0.5%

Households in Harrisburg

A peek inside Harrisburg households

Harrisburg has 3,464 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.7% are families, while the remaining 46.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,464
-2.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,603
Family households
1,861
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,603 46.3% 11.2%
Family households 1,861 53.7% -12.5%
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 Harrisburg

The housing landscape of Harrisburg

Harrisburg's housing consists of 4,046 units, with 63% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% 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 10.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,046
-3.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,550 63%
1 unit, attached 32 0.8%
2 units 253 6.2%
3 or 4 units 71 1.8%
5 to 9 units 345 8.5%
10 to 19 units 23 0.6%
20 to 49 units 136 3.4%
50 or more units 194 4.8%
Mobile home 442 10.9%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harrisburg

In Harrisburg, the median construction year is 1968. About 14.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 17.7% 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 585 14.5% -29.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 716 17.7% 3.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 410 10.1% 17.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 401 9.9% -0.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 711 17.6% 16.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 299 7.4% 28.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 315 7.8% -29.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 321 7.9% 9.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 288 7.1% -10.0%
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.

Harrisburg occupancy rates

Out of the 3,464 occupied housing units in Harrisburg, 61.6% are owner-occupied, while 38.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,464
-2.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,332
Owner occupied
2,132
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,332 38.4% -0.6%
Owner occupied 2,132 61.6% -4.3%
Unoccupied housing units
14.4%
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.

Harrisburg housing costs

Housing costs in Harrisburg come to a median of $738 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $760.

Median housing costs per month
$738/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 Harrisburg
$760/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 Harrisburg

Harrisburg education at a glance

About 38.1% of the population in Harrisburg went to high school, while 25.6% pursued college studies. Another 14.8% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 418 6.6% 13.6%
High school diploma 2,414 38.1% -1.7%
College diploma 1,621 25.6% 3.1%
Associate degree 937 14.8% -6.4%
Bachelor's degree 759 12% -19.0%
Graduate degree 189 3% -33.5%
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 Harrisburg

How much people earn in Harrisburg

The average annual household income in Harrisburg was $62,039 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $43,415, reflecting a -10.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harrisburg
$62,039/year
-1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harrisburg
$43,415/year
-10.5% year-over-year change

Harrisburg income by age

In Harrisburg, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,404. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $44,215 overall. Overall, 71% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $47,404 -28.1%
45 - 64 $44,215 -13.6%
Over 65 $37,401 3.8%
Above poverty level
5,524
Below poverty level
2,254
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,524 71% -8.2%
Below poverty level 2,254 29% 13.0%

Average renter income in Harrisburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Harrisburg, their median household income was $26,966 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,966
Rent-to-income ratio
33.8%
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 Harrisburg

Workforce and job types in Harrisburg

The job market in Harrisburg is powered by 3,125 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.6% run their own businesses, 70% are employed by private companies, and 19.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,125
-9.1% year-over-year change
White collar
2,310
Blue collar
815
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,310 73.9% -11.4%
Blue collar 815 26.1% -1.7%
Employer type
Self employees
3.6%
Private companies
70%
Governmental workers
19.6%
Not for profit companies
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 111 3.6% -53.6%
Private companies 2,189 70% 0.4%
Governmental workers 614 19.6% -5.4%
Not for profit companies 211 6.8% -42.8%
Unemployment rate
9.5%
12.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Harrisburg stands at 9.5%, 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 Harrisburg

How people get around in Harrisburg

In Harrisburg, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.9% 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.

Commute time
19 min
15.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,746 91.9% -9.0%
Bus or trolleybus 28 0.9% -55.6%
Bicycle 2 0.1% -33.3%
Walk 47 1.6% -34.7%
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 Harrisburg by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
62946 11,256 4,806 $51,566 $74,017

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FAQs about Harrisburg demographics 

What is the total population of Harrisburg?

Harrisburg has a total population of 8,372 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 -2.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harrisburg?

The gender ratio in Harrisburg is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (4,065 residents)
  • 51.4% females (4,307 residents)

What is the median age in Harrisburg?

The median age in Harrisburg is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in Harrisburg?

The age distribution in Harrisburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.7% (1,652 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.7% (812 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (2,075 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.2% (2,106 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.6% (1,727 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harrisburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harrisburg is as follows:
  • White: 92.5% (7,741 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (285 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (9 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.5% (291 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (44 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.1% of the population in Harrisburg.

How many housing units are there in Harrisburg?

There are 4,046 housing units in Harrisburg, reflecting a -3.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Harrisburg has a total of 3,464 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harrisburg?

Harrisburg has a median household income of $43,415, representing a -10.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.5% in Harrisburg, with a workforce of 3,125 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.9% (2,310 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.1% (815 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.6% (111 residents)
  • Private companies: 70% (2,189 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.6% (614 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.8% (211 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