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

Total population
171,556
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,905/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
75,305
0.2% year-over-year change

McLean County population

How many people live in McLean County

McLean County is home to 171,556 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of McLean County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
171,556
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
83,855
Female
51.1%
87,701
Value Percent YoY change
Male 83,855 48.9% 0.3%
Female 87,701 51.1% 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 McLean County is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 20.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 22.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
20.7%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
22.2%
Over 65
14.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 29,886 17.4% -1.0%
15 to 24 35,446 20.7% 1.3%
25 to 44 43,096 25.1% 0.4%
45 to 64 38,124 22.2% -0.9%
Over 65 25,004 14.6% 3.0%
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 McLean County, 91.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78% of locals are Caucasian, 8.5% are African American and 5.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.9%
Non-citizens
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 157,066 91.6% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,642 3.9% -2.3%
Non-citizens 7,848 4.6% 15.7%
Racial breakdown
White
78%
Black or African American
8.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
5.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 133,787 78%
Black or African American 14,627 8.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 541 0.3%
Asian 9,007 5.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 71 0%
Two or more races 9,907 5.8%
Other 3,616 2.1%

Households in McLean County

A peek inside McLean County households

McLean County has 70,220 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57% are families, while the remaining 43% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
70,220
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
30,159
Family households
40,061
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 30,159 43% 3.7%
Family households 40,061 57% 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 McLean County

The housing landscape of McLean County

McLean County's housing consists of 75,305 units, with 60.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.4% 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 3.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
75,305
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 45,396 60.3%
1 unit, attached 4,078 5.4%
2 units 1,374 1.8%
3 or 4 units 3,970 5.3%
5 to 9 units 5,321 7.1%
10 to 19 units 6,529 8.7%
20 to 49 units 3,071 4.1%
50 or more units 2,881 3.8%
Mobile home 2,679 3.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
677
102.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in McLean County

In McLean County, the median construction year is 1981. About 13.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 10,370 13.8% 1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,349 3.1% -11.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,750 6.3% 1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,842 9.1% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 12,259 16.3% -3.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,657 10.2% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 12,432 16.5% -1.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 12,770 17% 2.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,199 6.9% 3.3%
Built in 2020 or later 677 0.9% 102.1%
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.

McLean County occupancy rates

Out of the 70,220 occupied housing units in McLean County, 65.1% are owner-occupied, while 34.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
70,220
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
24,516
Owner occupied
45,704
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 24,516 34.9% 2.0%
Owner occupied 45,704 65.1% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
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.

McLean County housing costs

Housing costs in McLean County come to a median of $1,144 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,009.

Median housing costs per month
$1,144/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 McLean County
$1,009/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 McLean County

McLean County education at a glance

About 26.3% of the population in McLean County went to high school, while 23.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.6% earned an associate degree and 27.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,675 1.2% 10.9%
High school diploma 35,580 26.3% -0.1%
College diploma 32,265 23.9% -3.5%
Associate degree 11,591 8.6% 7.3%
Bachelor's degree 36,642 27.1% 1.2%
Graduate degree 17,412 12.9% 4.5%
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 McLean County

How much people earn in McLean County

The average annual household income in McLean County was $105,003 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $79,905, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in McLean County
$105,003/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in McLean County
$79,905/year
2.0% year-over-year change

McLean County income by age

In McLean County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $88,010. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $106,065 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,183, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,228 in earnings. Overall, 87.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,183 8.0%
25 - 44 $88,010 0.5%
45 - 64 $106,065 4.7%
Over 65 $66,228 -0.9%
Above poverty level
139,446
Below poverty level
20,643
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 139,446 87.1% 0.2%
Below poverty level 20,643 12.9% 0.2%

Employment in McLean County

Workforce and job types in McLean County

The job market in McLean County is powered by 87,569 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 69% are employed by private companies, and 15.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
87,569
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
73,386
Blue collar
14,183
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 73,386 83.8% 1.3%
Blue collar 14,183 16.2% 2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
69%
Governmental workers
15.2%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,786 6.6% 6.2%
Private companies 60,436 69% 1.1%
Governmental workers 13,283 15.2% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 8,064 9.2% 1.4%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in McLean County stands at 3.1%, 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 McLean County

How people get around in McLean County

In McLean County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 77% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 66,000 77% -0.1%
Taxicab 24 0% -79.1%
Bus or trolleybus 583 0.7% -5.8%
Railroad 12 0% -42.9%
Ferryboat 14 0% 27.3%
Motorcycle 59 0.1% 145.8%
Bicycle 225 0.3% -15.4%
Walk 3,396 4% -2.4%
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 McLean County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61722 658 233 $111,042 $107,569
61724 369 141 $81,250 $88,893
61725 1,459 521 $126,083 $141,148
61726 2,546 1,016 $77,800 $89,160
61728 1,359 491 $97,159 $128,831
61730 361 149 $76,719 $92,352
61701 35,136 16,537 $57,130 $75,667
61704 37,279 15,839 $95,027 $124,423
61705 13,213 5,232 $120,547 $151,168
61720 374 145 $91,250 $118,674

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FAQs about McLean County demographics 

What is the total population of McLean County?

McLean County has a total population of 171,556 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 McLean County?

The gender ratio in McLean County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (83,855 residents)
  • 51.1% females (87,701 residents)

What is the median age in McLean County?

The median age in McLean County is 34.3.

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

The age distribution in McLean County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (29,886 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20.7% (35,446 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (43,096 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.2% (38,124 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.6% (25,004 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of McLean County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of McLean County is as follows:
  • White: 78% (133,787 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.5% (14,627 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (541 residents)
  • Asian: 5.2% (9,007 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (71 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (9,907 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (3,616 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.6% of the population in McLean County.

How many housing units are there in McLean County?

There are 75,305 housing units in McLean 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 McLean County and what is the average household size?

McLean County has a total of 70,220 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in McLean County?

McLean County has a median household income of $79,905, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.9% in McLean County, with a workforce of 87,569 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.8% (73,386 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.2% (14,183 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (5,786 residents)
  • Private companies: 69% (60,436 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.2% (13,283 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (8,064 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