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

Total population
101,849
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,666/yr
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
49,630
-0.1% year-over-year change

Macon County population

How many people live in Macon County

Macon County is home to 101,849 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Macon County locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
101,849
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
49,036
Female
51.8%
52,813
Value Percent YoY change
Male 49,036 48.2% -0.3%
Female 52,813 51.8% -1.1%
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 Macon County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.5% of the population, while another 24.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
23.5%
45 to 64
24.4%
Over 65
21%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 19,035 18.7% -1.4%
15 to 24 12,588 12.4% 0.3%
25 to 44 23,941 23.5% -0.4%
45 to 64 24,873 24.4% -2.9%
Over 65 21,412 21% 1.6%
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 Macon County, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.2% of locals are Caucasian, 16.2% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 98,700 96.9% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,673 1.6% 2.6%
Non-citizens 1,476 1.4% -3.8%
Racial breakdown
White
74.2%
Black or African American
16.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 75,616 74.2%
Black or African American 16,552 16.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 99 0.1%
Asian 1,564 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 43 0%
Two or more races 6,831 6.7%
Other 1,144 1.1%

Households in Macon County

A peek inside Macon County households

Macon County has 43,468 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.1% are families, while the remaining 43.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
43,468
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
19,069
Family households
24,399
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 19,069 43.9% 5.3%
Family households 24,399 56.1% -3.3%
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 Macon County

The housing landscape of Macon County

Macon County's housing consists of 49,630 units, with 78.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.3% 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 2.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
49,630
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 38,966 78.5%
1 unit, attached 1,136 2.3%
2 units 386 0.8%
3 or 4 units 1,275 2.6%
5 to 9 units 1,788 3.6%
10 to 19 units 1,822 3.7%
20 to 49 units 940 1.9%
50 or more units 2,184 4.4%
Mobile home 1,131 2.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2 0%
Homes built since 2020
150
14.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Macon County

In Macon County, the median construction year is 1964. About 20.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 10,149 20.4% 9.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,703 7.5% -5.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,325 16.8% -8.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,730 13.6% -5.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,470 17.1% 2.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,747 7.6% -1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,459 9% 5.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,849 5.7% 5.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,048 2.1% -6.1%
Built in 2020 or later 150 0.3% 14.5%
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.

Macon County occupancy rates

Out of the 43,468 occupied housing units in Macon County, 70.2% are owner-occupied, while 29.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
43,468
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,975
Owner occupied
30,493
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,975 29.8% -0.7%
Owner occupied 30,493 70.2% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
12.4%
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.

Macon County housing costs

Housing costs in Macon County come to a median of $861 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $847.

Median housing costs per month
$861/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 Macon County
$847/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 Macon County

Macon County education at a glance

About 43.2% of the population in Macon County went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.6% earned an associate degree and 15.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,583 2% 1.7%
High school diploma 34,004 43.2% -1.1%
College diploma 18,575 23.6% -1.9%
Associate degree 6,746 8.6% 1.5%
Bachelor's degree 12,028 15.3% -0.6%
Graduate degree 5,847 7.4% 1.8%
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 Macon County

How much people earn in Macon County

The average annual household income in Macon County was $84,051 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,666, reflecting a +0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Macon County
$84,051/year
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Macon County
$62,666/year
0.3% year-over-year change

Macon County income by age

In Macon County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,264. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,738 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,707, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,907 in earnings. Overall, 85.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,707 10.4%
25 - 44 $65,264 -3.4%
45 - 64 $80,738 3.6%
Over 65 $48,907 -0.2%
Above poverty level
83,339
Below poverty level
14,511
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 83,339 85.2% -0.8%
Below poverty level 14,511 14.8% 1.2%

Employment in Macon County

Workforce and job types in Macon County

The job market in Macon County is powered by 44,035 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.1% run their own businesses, 71.6% are employed by private companies, and 12.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
44,035
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
32,259
Blue collar
11,776
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 32,259 73.3% -0.6%
Blue collar 11,776 26.7% 3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
71.6%
Governmental workers
12.5%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,116 7.1% 11.2%
Private companies 31,516 71.6% 0.9%
Governmental workers 5,487 12.5% -4.9%
Not for profit companies 3,916 8.9% -4.1%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
-4.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Macon County stands at 6.8%, 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 Macon County

How people get around in Macon County

Commuting methods vary: 87.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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 37,829 87.6% -1.1%
Taxicab 1 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 377 0.9% 4.1%
Railroad 12 0% N/A
Motorcycle 72 0.2% 60.0%
Bicycle 92 0.2% 55.9%
Walk 823 1.9% 5.8%
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 Macon County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61756 2,542 918 $86,375 $106,164
61818 1,560 620 $84,375 $90,540
61830 510 203 $67,232 $97,445
61925 1,182 498 $81,316 $98,126
62521 32,665 14,256 $66,337 $85,923
62522 15,185 6,102 $50,669 $74,578
62523 707 248 $13,393 $22,486
62501 2,324 1,012 $95,889 $131,790
62513 1,391 599 $83,125 $99,359
62514 297 146 $53,333 $79,920

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FAQs about Macon County demographics 

What is the total population of Macon County?

Macon County has a total population of 101,849 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Macon County?

The gender ratio in Macon County is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (49,036 residents)
  • 51.8% females (52,813 residents)

What is the median age in Macon County?

The median age in Macon County is 40.6.

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

The age distribution in Macon County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (19,035 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (12,588 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.5% (23,941 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.4% (24,873 residents)
  • Over 65: 21% (21,412 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Macon County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Macon County is as follows:
  • White: 74.2% (75,616 residents)
  • Black or African American: 16.2% (16,552 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (99 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (1,564 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (43 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (6,831 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (1,144 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Macon County.

How many housing units are there in Macon County?

There are 49,630 housing units in Macon County, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Macon County has a total of 43,468 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Macon County?

Macon County has a median household income of $62,666, representing a +0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.2% in Macon County, with a workforce of 44,035 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.3% (32,259 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.7% (11,776 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (3,116 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.6% (31,516 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.5% (5,487 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (3,916 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