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

Total population
106,635
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,281/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
45,415
0.0% year-over-year change

Kankakee County population

How many people live in Kankakee County

Kankakee County is home to 106,635 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Kankakee County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
106,635
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
52,797
Female
50.5%
53,838
Value Percent YoY change
Male 52,797 49.5% -0.1%
Female 53,838 50.5% -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 Kankakee County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 14.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
14.2%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 19,624 18.4% -1.3%
15 to 24 15,138 14.2% -0.1%
25 to 44 26,235 24.6% 0.3%
45 to 64 26,608 25% -1.5%
Over 65 19,030 17.8% 2.1%
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 Kankakee County, 93.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 73.4% of locals are Caucasian, 14.3% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.3%
Non-citizens
2.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 100,011 93.8% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,564 3.3% 6.7%
Non-citizens 3,060 2.9% 3.9%
Racial breakdown
White
73.4%
Black or African American
14.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.4%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 78,270 73.4%
Black or African American 15,265 14.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 487 0.5%
Asian 1,067 1%
Two or more races 7,858 7.4%
Other 3,688 3.5%

Households in Kankakee County

A peek inside Kankakee County households

Kankakee County has 40,996 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.9% are families, while the remaining 36.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
40,996
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
14,800
Family households
26,196
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 14,800 36.1% 0.2%
Family households 26,196 63.9% 0.3%
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 Kankakee County

The housing landscape of Kankakee County

Kankakee County's housing consists of 45,415 units, with 70.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% 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 6.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
45,415
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 32,206 70.9%
1 unit, attached 2,105 4.6%
2 units 1,396 3.1%
3 or 4 units 2,256 5%
5 to 9 units 1,983 4.4%
10 to 19 units 1,038 2.3%
20 to 49 units 442 1%
50 or more units 1,037 2.3%
Mobile home 2,950 6.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
266
343.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kankakee County

In Kankakee County, the median construction year is 1972. About 15% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,812 15% -4.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,791 6.2% -4.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,064 11.2% 0.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,484 14.3% 1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,316 18.3% 0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,183 7% -6.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,984 11% 2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,618 12.4% 1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,897 4.2% 6.2%
Built in 2020 or later 266 0.6% 343.3%
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.

Kankakee County occupancy rates

Out of the 40,996 occupied housing units in Kankakee County, 69.9% are owner-occupied, while 30.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
40,996
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,355
Owner occupied
28,641
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,355 30.1% -3.3%
Owner occupied 28,641 69.9% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
9.7%
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.

Kankakee County housing costs

Housing costs in Kankakee County come to a median of $1,164 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,097.

Median housing costs per month
$1,164/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 Kankakee County
$1,097/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 Kankakee County

Kankakee County education at a glance

About 41.2% of the population in Kankakee County went to high school, while 26.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 12.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,703 3.3% -4.2%
High school diploma 33,892 41.2% -2.9%
College diploma 21,874 26.6% 2.1%
Associate degree 7,832 9.5% -0.4%
Bachelor's degree 10,176 12.4% 6.8%
Graduate degree 5,886 7.2% 2.6%
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 Kankakee County

How much people earn in Kankakee County

The average annual household income in Kankakee County was $94,302 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,281, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kankakee County
$94,302/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kankakee County
$71,281/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Kankakee County income by age

In Kankakee County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,246. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,563 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,705, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,634 in earnings. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,705 -13.2%
25 - 44 $78,246 4.2%
45 - 64 $86,563 4.8%
Over 65 $51,634 3.2%
Above poverty level
88,991
Below poverty level
12,252
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 88,991 87.9% 0.0%
Below poverty level 12,252 12.1% -2.2%

Employment in Kankakee County

Workforce and job types in Kankakee County

The job market in Kankakee County is powered by 50,150 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 69.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
50,150
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
35,149
Blue collar
15,001
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 35,149 70.1% 0.3%
Blue collar 15,001 29.9% 0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
69.7%
Governmental workers
12.6%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,000 8% 6.1%
Private companies 34,945 69.7% -0.1%
Governmental workers 6,310 12.6% -3.5%
Not for profit companies 4,895 9.8% 4.2%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-2.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kankakee County stands at 4.9%, 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 Kankakee County

How people get around in Kankakee County

Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% 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 42,418 86.6% -0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 344 0.7% -6.5%
Subway or elevated 24 0% N/A
Railroad 126 0.3% -11.3%
Bicycle 51 0.1% -51.4%
Walk 1,448 3% 1.8%
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 Kankakee County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60901 33,128 12,813 $58,309 $80,232
60910 582 220 $77,321 $102,560
60913 1,683 699 $87,750 $131,809
60914 28,673 10,357 $86,223 $108,368
60915 9,979 4,155 $60,563 $74,468
60917 449 172 $75,441 $94,036
60919 520 206 $62,500 $82,078
60922 2,088 838 $62,000 $96,020
60935 1,259 440 $110,000 $137,132
60940 3,322 1,095 $97,361 $125,241

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FAQs about Kankakee County demographics 

What is the total population of Kankakee County?

Kankakee County has a total population of 106,635 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kankakee County?

The gender ratio in Kankakee County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (52,797 residents)
  • 50.5% females (53,838 residents)

What is the median age in Kankakee County?

The median age in Kankakee County is 39.

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

The age distribution in Kankakee County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (19,624 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.2% (15,138 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (26,235 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (26,608 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (19,030 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kankakee County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kankakee County is as follows:
  • White: 73.4% (78,270 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14.3% (15,265 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (487 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (1,067 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.4% (7,858 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (3,688 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.8% of the population in Kankakee County.

How many housing units are there in Kankakee County?

There are 45,415 housing units in Kankakee County, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kankakee County has a total of 40,996 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kankakee County?

Kankakee County has a median household income of $71,281, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.1% in Kankakee County, with a workforce of 50,150 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.1% (35,149 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.9% (15,001 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (4,000 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.7% (34,945 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.6% (6,310 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (4,895 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