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

Total population
312,591
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$104,802/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
121,329
0.6% year-over-year change

McHenry County population

How many people live in McHenry County

McHenry County is home to 312,591 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of McHenry County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
312,591
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
156,698
Female
49.9%
155,893
Value Percent YoY change
Male 156,698 50.1% 0.5%
Female 155,893 49.9% 0.3%
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 County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
16.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 57,122 18.3% -0.7%
15 to 24 39,188 12.5% -0.7%
25 to 44 77,458 24.8% 1.1%
45 to 64 87,311 27.9% -1.1%
Over 65 51,512 16.5% 4.0%
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 County, 89.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.5% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.1%
Non-citizens
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 279,090 89.3% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 19,199 6.1% 6.1%
Non-citizens 14,302 4.6% 8.9%
Racial breakdown
White
79.5%
Black or African American
1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.8%
Other
4.6%
Value Percent
White 248,630 79.5%
Black or African American 4,755 1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,185 0.4%
Asian 9,760 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 47 0%
Two or more races 33,870 10.8%
Other 14,344 4.6%

Households in McHenry County

A peek inside McHenry County households

McHenry County has 117,594 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.9% are families, while the remaining 28.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
117,594
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
33,032
Family households
84,562
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 33,032 28.1% 3.2%
Family households 84,562 71.9% 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 McHenry County

The housing landscape of McHenry County

McHenry County's housing consists of 121,329 units, with 77.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.2% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
121,329
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 93,765 77.3%
1 unit, attached 12,348 10.2%
2 units 1,307 1.1%
3 or 4 units 3,187 2.6%
5 to 9 units 5,187 4.3%
10 to 19 units 2,086 1.7%
20 to 49 units 1,258 1%
50 or more units 1,350 1.1%
Mobile home 800 0.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 41 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,349
119.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in McHenry County

In McHenry County, the median construction year is 1989. About 8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 9,678 8% -2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,655 3% 12.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,911 7.3% -0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 7,857 6.5% -4.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 16,468 13.6% -0.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 16,290 13.4% 4.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 27,407 22.6% -1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 24,407 20.1% -2.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,307 4.4% 6.7%
Built in 2020 or later 1,349 1.1% 119.3%
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 County occupancy rates

Out of the 117,594 occupied housing units in McHenry County, 82.7% are owner-occupied, while 17.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
117,594
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,335
Owner occupied
97,259
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,335 17.3% 0.3%
Owner occupied 97,259 82.7% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
3.1%
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 County housing costs

Housing costs in McHenry County come to a median of $1,651 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,401.

Median housing costs per month
$1,651/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 County
$1,401/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 County

McHenry County education at a glance

About 32.1% of the population in McHenry County went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 22.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,221 2.6% 5.8%
High school diploma 77,453 32.1% 0.2%
College diploma 55,579 23% 1.0%
Associate degree 22,394 9.3% 0.9%
Bachelor's degree 53,701 22.2% 0.0%
Graduate degree 26,154 10.8% 2.0%
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 County

How much people earn in McHenry County

The average annual household income in McHenry County was $130,520 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $104,802, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in McHenry County
$130,520/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in McHenry County
$104,802/year
1.9% year-over-year change

McHenry County income by age

In McHenry County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $110,984. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $130,066 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,503, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $70,816 in earnings. Overall, 93.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,503 2.1%
25 - 44 $110,984 2.5%
45 - 64 $130,066 1.1%
Over 65 $70,816 2.5%
Above poverty level
288,471
Below poverty level
19,046
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 288,471 93.8% 0.3%
Below poverty level 19,046 6.2% 2.7%

Employment in McHenry County

Workforce and job types in McHenry County

The job market in McHenry County is powered by 166,438 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 71.4% are employed by private companies, and 13.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
166,438
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
129,154
Blue collar
37,284
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 129,154 77.6% 1.3%
Blue collar 37,284 22.4% -2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
71.4%
Governmental workers
13.2%
Not for profit companies
6.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 14,809 8.9% -1.6%
Private companies 118,922 71.4% -0.3%
Governmental workers 21,952 13.2% 4.4%
Not for profit companies 10,755 6.5% 2.6%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
0.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in McHenry County stands at 4.7%, 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 County

How people get around in McHenry County

In McHenry County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.6% 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.

Commute time
30 min
-1.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 132,091 80.6% -1.4%
Taxicab 223 0.1% 25.3%
Bus or trolleybus 222 0.1% 9.9%
Subway or elevated 117 0.1% N/A
Railroad 1,836 1.1% -3.1%
Ferryboat 6 0% N/A
Motorcycle 149 0.1% -20.3%
Bicycle 94 0.1% -5.0%
Walk 1,774 1.1% 9.4%
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 McHenry County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60012 12,368 4,220 $159,375 $194,504
60013 26,694 9,892 $120,604 $150,379
60014 48,590 17,644 $109,016 $133,602
60021 4,996 1,903 $119,176 $140,424
60033 12,999 4,697 $68,633 $88,649
60034 2,033 703 $87,188 $119,906
60042 8,347 3,088 $99,917 $109,895
60050 31,781 13,188 $88,812 $107,098
60051 24,621 10,054 $100,762 $136,560
60071 3,851 1,843 $74,426 $106,412

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FAQs about McHenry County demographics 

What is the total population of McHenry County?

McHenry County has a total population of 312,591 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in McHenry County?

The gender ratio in McHenry County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (156,698 residents)
  • 49.9% females (155,893 residents)

What is the median age in McHenry County?

The median age in McHenry County is 40.7.

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

The age distribution in McHenry County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (57,122 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (39,188 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (77,458 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (87,311 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.5% (51,512 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of McHenry County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of McHenry County is as follows:
  • White: 79.5% (248,630 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.5% (4,755 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,185 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (9,760 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (47 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.8% (33,870 residents)
  • Other: 4.6% (14,344 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.3% of the population in McHenry County.

How many housing units are there in McHenry County?

There are 121,329 housing units in McHenry County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

McHenry County has a total of 117,594 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in McHenry County?

McHenry County has a median household income of $104,802, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.3% in McHenry County, with a workforce of 166,438 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.6% (129,154 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.4% (37,284 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (14,809 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.4% (118,922 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.2% (21,952 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.5% (10,755 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