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

Total population
26,920
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,795/yr
4.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,587
-0.1% year-over-year change

McDonough County population

How many people live in McDonough County

McDonough County is home to 26,920 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of McDonough County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
26,920
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
13,230
Female
50.8%
13,690
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,230 49.2% -0.9%
Female 13,690 50.8% -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 McDonough County is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 15% are children under 15, then 23.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.8% of the population, while another 20.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
15%
15 to 24
23.8%
25 to 44
21.8%
45 to 64
20.1%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,041 15% -0.4%
15 to 24 6,403 23.8% 1.2%
25 to 44 5,868 21.8% -1.1%
45 to 64 5,409 20.1% -2.6%
Over 65 5,199 19.3% -0.7%
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 McDonough County, 96.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.4% of locals are Caucasian, 5.8% are African American and 2.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 25,994 96.6% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 463 1.7% -31.8%
Non-citizens 463 1.7% 35.4%
Racial breakdown
White
86.4%
Black or African American
5.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4.7%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 23,246 86.4%
Black or African American 1,562 5.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17 0.1%
Asian 566 2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 24 0.1%
Two or more races 1,269 4.7%
Other 236 0.9%

Households in McDonough County

A peek inside McDonough County households

McDonough County has 11,856 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.7% are families, while the remaining 51.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,856
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,085
Family households
5,771
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,085 51.3% 1.8%
Family households 5,771 48.7% -0.2%
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 McDonough County

The housing landscape of McDonough County

McDonough County's housing consists of 13,587 units, with 66.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.6% 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 5.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,587
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,051 66.6%
1 unit, attached 494 3.6%
2 units 308 2.3%
3 or 4 units 705 5.2%
5 to 9 units 700 5.2%
10 to 19 units 835 6.2%
20 to 49 units 214 1.6%
50 or more units 504 3.7%
Mobile home 776 5.7%
Homes built since 2020
17
30.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in McDonough County

In McDonough County, the median construction year is 1965. About 27.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,726 27.4% -1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 762 5.6% 4.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,386 10.2% 12.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,678 12.4% -3.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,262 16.6% -2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 827 6.1% -12.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,102 8.1% 0.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,223 9% -1.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 604 4.4% 20.6%
Built in 2020 or later 17 0.1% 30.8%
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.

McDonough County occupancy rates

Out of the 11,856 occupied housing units in McDonough County, 63.4% are owner-occupied, while 36.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,856
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,333
Owner occupied
7,523
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,333 36.6% -2.8%
Owner occupied 7,523 63.4% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
12.7%
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.

McDonough County housing costs

Housing costs in McDonough County come to a median of $796 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $761.

Median housing costs per month
$796/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 McDonough County
$761/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 McDonough County

McDonough County education at a glance

About 33.5% of the population in McDonough County went to high school, while 26.3% pursued college studies. Another 10.7% earned an associate degree and 15.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 591 2.7% 9.4%
High school diploma 7,401 33.5% 0.0%
College diploma 5,803 26.3% -5.8%
Associate degree 2,364 10.7% 5.7%
Bachelor's degree 3,396 15.4% 0.3%
Graduate degree 2,515 11.4% -0.6%
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 McDonough County

How much people earn in McDonough County

The average annual household income in McDonough County was $71,521 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,795, reflecting a +4.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in McDonough County
$71,521/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in McDonough County
$52,795/year
4.7% year-over-year change

McDonough County income by age

In McDonough County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $56,837. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,699 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,481, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,880 in earnings. Overall, 82.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,481 29.5%
25 - 44 $56,837 5.6%
45 - 64 $76,699 6.2%
Over 65 $48,880 1.9%
Above poverty level
19,926
Below poverty level
4,176
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,926 82.7% 2.3%
Below poverty level 4,176 17.3% -14.5%

Employment in McDonough County

Workforce and job types in McDonough County

The job market in McDonough County is powered by 12,965 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 62.1% are employed by private companies, and 20.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,965
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
9,494
Blue collar
3,471
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,494 73.2% 0.1%
Blue collar 3,471 26.8% -0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
62.1%
Governmental workers
20.8%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,207 9.3% -4.9%
Private companies 8,057 62.1% 1.6%
Governmental workers 2,701 20.8% -1.4%
Not for profit companies 1,000 7.7% -3.8%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
-9.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in McDonough County stands at 7.9%, 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 McDonough County

How people get around in McDonough County

In McDonough County, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.6% 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
-3.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,916 86.3% 0.3%
Bus or trolleybus 64 0.5% 8.5%
Motorcycle 20 0.2% 5.3%
Bicycle 105 0.8% 14.1%
Walk 578 4.6% -15.4%
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 McDonough County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61411 376 154 $0 $60,797
61416 204 116 $28,750 $47,590
61420 968 396 $69,375 $74,939
61422 3,002 1,375 $68,207 $76,945
61438 739 325 $68,516 $85,158
61440 744 314 $66,786 $71,799
61455 17,317 7,620 $48,679 $69,648
61459 406 135 $52,813 $73,073
61470 488 195 $72,708 $73,447
61475 180 94 $85,000 $93,566

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FAQs about McDonough County demographics 

What is the total population of McDonough County?

McDonough County has a total population of 26,920 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 McDonough County?

The gender ratio in McDonough County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (13,230 residents)
  • 50.8% females (13,690 residents)

What is the median age in McDonough County?

The median age in McDonough County is 34.9.

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

The age distribution in McDonough County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15% (4,041 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 23.8% (6,403 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.8% (5,868 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.1% (5,409 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (5,199 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of McDonough County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of McDonough County is as follows:
  • White: 86.4% (23,246 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.8% (1,562 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (17 residents)
  • Asian: 2.1% (566 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (24 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.7% (1,269 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (236 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.6% of the population in McDonough County.

How many housing units are there in McDonough County?

There are 13,587 housing units in McDonough 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 McDonough County and what is the average household size?

McDonough County has a total of 11,856 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in McDonough County?

McDonough County has a median household income of $52,795, representing a +4.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.1% in McDonough County, with a workforce of 12,965 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.2% (9,494 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.8% (3,471 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (1,207 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.1% (8,057 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.8% (2,701 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (1,000 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