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

Total population
714,223
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$110,416/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
270,618
0.2% year-over-year change

Lake County population

How many people live in Lake County

Lake County is home to 714,223 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Lake County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
714,223
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
359,228
Female
49.7%
354,995
Value Percent YoY change
Male 359,228 50.3% 0.3%
Female 354,995 49.7% 0.4%
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 Lake County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 14.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.3% of the population, while another 26.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
14.8%
25 to 44
24.3%
45 to 64
26.5%
Over 65
15.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 133,409 18.7% -1.2%
15 to 24 105,505 14.8% 0.1%
25 to 44 173,329 24.3% 1.0%
45 to 64 189,188 26.5% -1.0%
Over 65 112,792 15.8% 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 Lake County, 78.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.2% of locals are Caucasian, 6.7% are African American and 8.7% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 9.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 13.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.8%
Non-citizens
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 561,245 78.6% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 84,587 11.8% 2.1%
Non-citizens 68,391 9.6% 2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
61.2%
Black or African American
6.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
8.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
13.3%
Other
9.1%
Value Percent
White 437,310 61.2%
Black or African American 47,642 6.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6,816 1%
Asian 62,162 8.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 432 0.1%
Two or more races 94,994 13.3%
Other 64,867 9.1%

Households in Lake County

A peek inside Lake County households

Lake County has 258,455 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.4% are families, while the remaining 28.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
258,455
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
73,927
Family households
184,528
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 73,927 28.6% 1.7%
Family households 184,528 71.4% 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 Lake County

The housing landscape of Lake County

Lake County's housing consists of 270,618 units, with 66.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.3% 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 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
270,618
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 180,263 66.6%
1 unit, attached 27,922 10.3%
2 units 6,761 2.5%
3 or 4 units 8,986 3.3%
5 to 9 units 10,160 3.8%
10 to 19 units 11,750 4.3%
20 to 49 units 8,629 3.2%
50 or more units 11,663 4.3%
Mobile home 4,406 1.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 78 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,698
76.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lake County

In Lake County, the median construction year is 1983. About 8.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% 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 22,696 8.4% -2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9,756 3.6% 3.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 25,539 9.4% -3.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 25,819 9.5% 2.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 41,410 15.3% -1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 40,262 14.9% 1.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 49,772 18.4% -1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 40,339 14.9% 1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 13,327 4.9% 6.1%
Built in 2020 or later 1,698 0.6% 76.9%
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.

Lake County occupancy rates

Out of the 258,455 occupied housing units in Lake County, 74.8% are owner-occupied, while 25.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
258,455
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
65,052
Owner occupied
193,403
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 65,052 25.2% -1.0%
Owner occupied 193,403 74.8% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
4.5%
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.

Lake County housing costs

Housing costs in Lake County come to a median of $1,764 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,477.

Median housing costs per month
$1,764/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 Lake County
$1,477/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 Lake County

Lake County education at a glance

About 27.3% of the population in Lake County went to high school, while 18.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 25.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 25,187 4.6% 2.2%
High school diploma 149,718 27.3% 0.6%
College diploma 100,339 18.3% -4.7%
Associate degree 35,118 6.4% 4.7%
Bachelor's degree 141,053 25.7% 1.6%
Graduate degree 96,502 17.6% 4.1%
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 Lake County

How much people earn in Lake County

The average annual household income in Lake County was $155,726 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $110,416, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lake County
$155,726/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lake County
$110,416/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Lake County income by age

In Lake County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $112,917. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $138,021 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,201, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $80,242 in earnings. Overall, 91.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,201 0.5%
25 - 44 $112,917 2.9%
45 - 64 $138,021 1.9%
Over 65 $80,242 3.1%
Above poverty level
631,643
Below poverty level
57,067
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 631,643 91.7% -0.0%
Below poverty level 57,067 8.3% 2.9%

Employment in Lake County

Workforce and job types in Lake County

The job market in Lake County is powered by 357,378 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.7% run their own businesses, 71.3% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
357,378
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
293,208
Blue collar
64,170
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 293,208 82% 0.4%
Blue collar 64,170 18% -1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9.7%
Private companies
71.3%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 34,795 9.7% 0.2%
Private companies 254,738 71.3% -0.6%
Governmental workers 41,198 11.5% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 26,647 7.5% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
2.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lake County stands at 5.2%, 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 Lake County

How people get around in Lake County

In Lake County, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 74.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-1.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 267,796 74.2% -2.7%
Taxicab 803 0.2% 0.5%
Bus or trolleybus 1,370 0.4% -15.2%
Subway or elevated 629 0.2% N/A
Railroad 7,386 2% 1.6%
Ferryboat 15 0% N/A
Motorcycle 264 0.1% 7.3%
Bicycle 483 0.1% -3.8%
Walk 7,411 2% 1.5%
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 Lake County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60002 24,232 9,319 $104,981 $131,082
60010 45,747 16,529 $177,566 $228,492
60013 26,694 9,892 $120,604 $150,379
60015 28,096 10,346 $183,125 $249,478
60020 10,970 5,120 $73,949 $92,883
60030 35,792 14,391 $104,795 $133,057
60031 37,107 14,307 $111,034 $142,207
60035 30,398 11,787 $168,094 $250,788
60040 5,301 2,025 $107,875 $133,916
60041 9,024 3,706 $93,396 $108,258

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FAQs about Lake County demographics 

What is the total population of Lake County?

Lake County has a total population of 714,223 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 Lake County?

The gender ratio in Lake County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (359,228 residents)
  • 49.7% females (354,995 residents)

What is the median age in Lake County?

The median age in Lake County is 39.1.

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

The age distribution in Lake County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (133,409 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.8% (105,505 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.3% (173,329 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.5% (189,188 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.8% (112,792 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lake County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lake County is as follows:
  • White: 61.2% (437,310 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.7% (47,642 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (6,816 residents)
  • Asian: 8.7% (62,162 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (432 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.3% (94,994 residents)
  • Other: 9.1% (64,867 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.6% of the population in Lake County.

How many housing units are there in Lake County?

There are 270,618 housing units in Lake County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lake County has a total of 258,455 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lake County?

Lake County has a median household income of $110,416, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Lake County, with a workforce of 357,378 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (293,208 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (64,170 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.7% (34,795 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.3% (254,738 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (41,198 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.5% (26,647 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