Kewanee, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,913
-3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,886/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,001
0.9% year-over-year change

Kewanee population

How many people live in Kewanee

Kewanee is home to 11,913 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Kewanee locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
11,913
-3.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
6,148
Female
48.4%
5,765
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,148 51.6% 0.6%
Female 5,765 48.4% -6.5%
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 Kewanee is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
24.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,830 15.4% -12.6%
15 to 24 1,368 11.5% -1.0%
25 to 44 2,677 22.5% -5.1%
45 to 64 3,163 26.6% -1.4%
Over 65 2,875 24.1% 3.6%
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 Kewanee, 94.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.8% of locals are Caucasian, 3.3% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,226 94.2% -3.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 481 4% 14.2%
Non-citizens 206 1.7% -7.6%
Racial breakdown
White
80.8%
Black or African American
3.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.4%
Other
8%
Value Percent
White 9,629 80.8%
Black or African American 388 3.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0%
Asian 63 0.5%
Two or more races 883 7.4%
Other 948 8%

Households in Kewanee

A peek inside Kewanee households

Kewanee has 5,419 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.4% are families, while the remaining 42.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,419
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,306
Family households
3,113
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,306 42.6% 5.3%
Family households 3,113 57.4% -0.6%
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 Kewanee

The housing landscape of Kewanee

Kewanee's housing consists of 6,001 units, with 81.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.1% 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 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,001
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,914 81.9%
1 unit, attached 5 0.1%
2 units 202 3.4%
3 or 4 units 165 2.8%
5 to 9 units 138 2.3%
10 to 19 units 88 1.5%
20 to 49 units 217 3.6%
50 or more units 114 1.9%
Mobile home 158 2.6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kewanee

In Kewanee, the median construction year is 1948. About 40.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.9% 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 2,452 40.9% 2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 654 10.9% -8.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 654 10.9% -5.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 739 12.3% -8.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 821 13.7% 7.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 216 3.6% 27.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 280 4.7% 16.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 78 1.3% -20.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 107 1.8% 25.9%
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.

Kewanee occupancy rates

Out of the 5,419 occupied housing units in Kewanee, 69.2% are owner-occupied, while 30.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,419
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,667
Owner occupied
3,752
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,667 30.8% 3.9%
Owner occupied 3,752 69.2% 0.9%
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.

Kewanee housing costs

Housing costs in Kewanee come to a median of $714 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $797.

Median housing costs per month
$714/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 Kewanee
$797/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 Kewanee

Kewanee education at a glance

About 50% of the population in Kewanee went to high school, while 20.5% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 10.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 537 5.5% -5.6%
High school diploma 4,857 50% 4.0%
College diploma 1,990 20.5% -12.2%
Associate degree 806 8.3% 3.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,007 10.4% -2.2%
Graduate degree 511 5.3% 24.6%
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 Kewanee

How much people earn in Kewanee

The average annual household income in Kewanee was $64,234 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,886, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kewanee
$64,234/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kewanee
$50,886/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Kewanee income by age

In Kewanee, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,646. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $50,717 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,333, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,463 in earnings. Overall, 82.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,333 188.6%
25 - 44 $68,646 -1.6%
45 - 64 $50,717 1.3%
Over 65 $43,463 8.9%
Above poverty level
9,370
Below poverty level
1,992
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,370 82.5% -5.5%
Below poverty level 1,992 17.5% 14.5%

Average renter income in Kewanee

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kewanee, their median household income was $27,081 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,081
Rent-to-income ratio
35.3%
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 Kewanee

Workforce and job types in Kewanee

The job market in Kewanee is powered by 4,899 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 59.1% are employed by private companies, and 17.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,899
-4.3% year-over-year change
White collar
3,426
Blue collar
1,473
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,426 69.9% 2.0%
Blue collar 1,473 30.1% -16.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
59.1%
Governmental workers
17.6%
Not for profit companies
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 415 8.5% 21.4%
Private companies 2,897 59.1% -10.6%
Governmental workers 862 17.6% 2.1%
Not for profit companies 725 14.8% 5.1%
Unemployment rate
8.9%
37.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kewanee stands at 8.9%, 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 Kewanee

How people get around in Kewanee

In Kewanee, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% 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
4.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,206 87.8% -4.2%
Bicycle 19 0.4% 11.8%
Walk 161 3.4% -32.6%
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 Kewanee by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61443 13,456 5,990 $52,615 $71,998

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FAQs about Kewanee demographics 

What is the total population of Kewanee?

Kewanee has a total population of 11,913 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 -3.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kewanee?

The gender ratio in Kewanee is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (6,148 residents)
  • 48.4% females (5,765 residents)

What is the median age in Kewanee?

The median age in Kewanee is 46.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kewanee?

The age distribution in Kewanee is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (1,830 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (1,368 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (2,677 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (3,163 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.1% (2,875 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kewanee?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kewanee is as follows:
  • White: 80.8% (9,629 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.3% (388 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (63 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.4% (883 residents)
  • Other: 8% (948 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.2% of the population in Kewanee.

How many housing units are there in Kewanee?

There are 6,001 housing units in Kewanee, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kewanee has a total of 5,419 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kewanee?

Kewanee has a median household income of $50,886, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.1% in Kewanee, with a workforce of 4,899 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.9% (3,426 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.1% (1,473 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (415 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.1% (2,897 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.6% (862 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.8% (725 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