McHenry, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
28,074
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,315/yr
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,095
3.6% year-over-year change

McHenry population

How many people live in McHenry

McHenry is home to 28,074 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of McHenry locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
28,074
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
13,975
Female
50.2%
14,099
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,975 49.8% -0.3%
Female 14,099 50.2% 2.5%
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 McHenry is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.1% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 29% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.1%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
29%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,524 16.1% 2.9%
15 to 24 2,742 9.8% -8.1%
25 to 44 7,254 25.8% 1.9%
45 to 64 8,148 29% 3.2%
Over 65 5,406 19.3% 0.5%
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 McHenry, 90% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.1%
Non-citizens
4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 25,259 90% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,701 6.1% -3.9%
Non-citizens 1,114 4% 25.9%
Racial breakdown
White
83.7%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.7%
Other
3.9%
Value Percent
White 23,499 83.7%
Black or African American 158 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 73 0.3%
Asian 485 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 19 0.1%
Two or more races 2,733 9.7%
Other 1,107 3.9%

Households in McHenry

A peek inside McHenry households

McHenry has 11,897 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.7% are families, while the remaining 37.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,897
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,435
Family households
7,462
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,435 37.3% 2.3%
Family households 7,462 62.7% 3.5%
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 McHenry

The housing landscape of McHenry

McHenry's housing consists of 12,095 units, with 68.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.7% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,095
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,241 68.1%
1 unit, attached 1,414 11.7%
2 units 190 1.6%
3 or 4 units 674 5.6%
5 to 9 units 657 5.4%
10 to 19 units 450 3.7%
20 to 49 units 210 1.7%
50 or more units 220 1.8%
Mobile home 14 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 25 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
174
72.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in McHenry

In McHenry, the median construction year is 1988. About 2.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 353 2.9% 0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 351 2.9% 24.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,077 8.9% -5.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 679 5.6% -7.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,219 18.4% 9.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,792 14.8% 9.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,333 19.3% 3.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,540 21% -2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 577 4.8% 7.2%
Built in 2020 or later 174 1.4% 72.3%
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.

McHenry occupancy rates

Out of the 11,897 occupied housing units in McHenry, 74.4% are owner-occupied, while 25.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,897
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,050
Owner occupied
8,847
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,050 25.6% -0.8%
Owner occupied 8,847 74.4% 4.4%
Unoccupied housing units
1.6%
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.

McHenry housing costs

Housing costs in McHenry come to a median of $1,553 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,553.

Median housing costs per month
$1,553/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 McHenry
$1,553/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 McHenry

McHenry education at a glance

About 36.1% of the population in McHenry went to high school, while 26.1% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 18.4% 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 1,029 4.6% 1.3%
High school diploma 8,124 36.1% 0.1%
College diploma 5,882 26.1% 3.7%
Associate degree 1,716 7.6% -8.9%
Bachelor's degree 4,137 18.4% -1.7%
Graduate degree 1,617 7.2% 13.7%
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 McHenry

How much people earn in McHenry

The average annual household income in McHenry was $105,716 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,315, reflecting a -0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in McHenry
$105,716/year
-4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in McHenry
$86,315/year
-0.6% year-over-year change

McHenry income by age

In McHenry, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $98,877. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $101,029 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,775, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,650 in earnings. Overall, 95.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,775 8.4%
25 - 44 $98,877 -2.1%
45 - 64 $101,029 -0.5%
Over 65 $54,650 1.0%
Above poverty level
26,273
Below poverty level
1,269
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,273 95.4% 0.5%
Below poverty level 1,269 4.6% 17.1%

Average renter income in McHenry

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in McHenry, their median household income was $46,181 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 40.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,181
Rent-to-income ratio
40.4%
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 McHenry

Workforce and job types in McHenry

The job market in McHenry is powered by 15,376 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 70.3% are employed by private companies, and 15% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,376
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
11,501
Blue collar
3,875
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,501 74.8% 0.9%
Blue collar 3,875 25.2% -0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
70.3%
Governmental workers
15%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,350 8.8% -5.6%
Private companies 10,805 70.3% -1.9%
Governmental workers 2,299 15% 19.4%
Not for profit companies 922 6% -1.6%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
3.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in McHenry stands at 3.6%, 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 McHenry

How people get around in McHenry

Commuting methods vary: 83% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% 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 12,561 83% -0.0%
Taxicab 31 0.2% -20.5%
Subway or elevated 17 0.1% N/A
Railroad 121 0.8% -19.3%
Walk 172 1.1% -22.9%
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 McHenry by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60050 31,781 13,188 $88,812 $107,098

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FAQs about McHenry demographics 

What is the total population of McHenry?

McHenry has a total population of 28,074 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in McHenry?

The gender ratio in McHenry is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (13,975 residents)
  • 50.2% females (14,099 residents)

What is the median age in McHenry?

The median age in McHenry is 43.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in McHenry?

The age distribution in McHenry is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.1% (4,524 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (2,742 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (7,254 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29% (8,148 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (5,406 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of McHenry?

The racial and ethnic makeup of McHenry is as follows:
  • White: 83.7% (23,499 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (158 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (73 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (485 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (19 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.7% (2,733 residents)
  • Other: 3.9% (1,107 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90% of the population in McHenry.

How many housing units are there in McHenry?

There are 12,095 housing units in McHenry, reflecting a +3.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

McHenry has a total of 11,897 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in McHenry?

McHenry has a median household income of $86,315, representing a -0.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in McHenry, with a workforce of 15,376 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.8% (11,501 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.2% (3,875 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (1,350 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.3% (10,805 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15% (2,299 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (922 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