Murphysboro, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,735
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$44,154/yr
4.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,021
2.3% year-over-year change

Murphysboro population

How many people live in Murphysboro

Murphysboro is home to 6,735 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44% of Murphysboro locals are male, and 56% are female.

Total population
6,735
-1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44%
2,967
Female
56%
3,768
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,967 44% -4.3%
Female 3,768 56% 1.8%
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 Murphysboro is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17% are children under 15, then 13.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.7% of the population, while another 19% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17%
15 to 24
13.6%
25 to 44
28.7%
45 to 64
19%
Over 65
21.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,148 17% -2.9%
15 to 24 916 13.6% 9.3%
25 to 44 1,931 28.7% 0.5%
45 to 64 1,278 19% -12.8%
Over 65 1,462 21.7% 4.7%
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 Murphysboro, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 7.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,526 96.9% 3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 148 2.2% -26.7%
Non-citizens 61 0.9% -77.0%
Racial breakdown
White
71%
Black or African American
15.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.1%
Other
6.2%
Value Percent
White 4,779 71%
Black or African American 1,055 15.7%
Two or more races 481 7.1%
Other 420 6.2%

Households in Murphysboro

A peek inside Murphysboro households

Murphysboro has 3,373 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 44.2% are families, while the remaining 55.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,373
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,883
Family households
1,490
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,883 55.8% 9.7%
Family households 1,490 44.2% -10.9%
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 Murphysboro

The housing landscape of Murphysboro

Murphysboro's housing consists of 4,021 units, with 65.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,021
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,644 65.8%
1 unit, attached 23 0.6%
2 units 332 8.3%
3 or 4 units 339 8.4%
5 to 9 units 60 1.5%
10 to 19 units 73 1.8%
20 to 49 units 166 4.1%
50 or more units 222 5.5%
Mobile home 162 4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Murphysboro

In Murphysboro, the median construction year is 1962. About 25.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,008 25.1% 25.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 371 9.2% -7.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 467 11.6% -14.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 902 22.4% 30.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 692 17.2% -5.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 320 8% -13.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 176 4.4% -30.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 71 1.8% -44.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 14 0.4% 40.0%
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.

Murphysboro occupancy rates

Out of the 3,373 occupied housing units in Murphysboro, 49.8% are owner-occupied, while 50.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,373
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,692
Owner occupied
1,681
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,692 50.2% -2.9%
Owner occupied 1,681 49.8% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
16.1%
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.

Murphysboro housing costs

Housing costs in Murphysboro come to a median of $792 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $697.

Median housing costs per month
$792/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 Murphysboro
$697/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 Murphysboro

Murphysboro education at a glance

About 34.4% of the population in Murphysboro went to high school, while 33.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 13.9% 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 127 2.4% -3.0%
High school diploma 1,849 34.4% -12.4%
College diploma 1,807 33.7% 1.1%
Associate degree 452 8.4% 10.5%
Bachelor's degree 747 13.9% 13.9%
Graduate degree 386 7.2% 19.5%
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 Murphysboro

How much people earn in Murphysboro

The average annual household income in Murphysboro was $59,231 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $44,154, reflecting a +4.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Murphysboro
$59,231/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Murphysboro
$44,154/year
4.2% year-over-year change

Murphysboro income by age

In Murphysboro, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $56,512. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,353 overall. Overall, 85.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $56,512 6.6%
45 - 64 $67,353 26.1%
Over 65 $27,838 -7.0%
Above poverty level
5,529
Below poverty level
966
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,529 85.1% -0.0%
Below poverty level 966 14.9% -11.0%

Average renter income in Murphysboro

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Murphysboro, their median household income was $27,774 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,774
Rent-to-income ratio
30.1%
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 Murphysboro

Workforce and job types in Murphysboro

The job market in Murphysboro is powered by 3,021 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.6% run their own businesses, 51.3% are employed by private companies, and 21.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,021
-2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,410
Blue collar
611
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,410 79.8% 6.9%
Blue collar 611 20.2% -27.3%
Employer type
Self employees
12.6%
Private companies
51.3%
Governmental workers
21.6%
Not for profit companies
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 381 12.6% 21.3%
Private companies 1,549 51.3% -19.0%
Governmental workers 654 21.6% 24.1%
Not for profit companies 437 14.5% 27.8%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
9.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Murphysboro stands at 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 Murphysboro

How people get around in Murphysboro

Commuting methods vary: 82.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.8% 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 2,380 82.1% -8.4%
Taxicab 13 0.4% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 1 0% 0.0%
Walk 111 3.8% 1.8%
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 Murphysboro by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
62966 13,945 6,301 $55,665 $76,526

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FAQs about Murphysboro demographics 

What is the total population of Murphysboro?

Murphysboro has a total population of 6,735 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 -1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Murphysboro?

The gender ratio in Murphysboro is as follows:
  • 44% males (2,967 residents)
  • 56% females (3,768 residents)

What is the median age in Murphysboro?

The median age in Murphysboro is 39.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Murphysboro?

The age distribution in Murphysboro is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17% (1,148 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.6% (916 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.7% (1,931 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19% (1,278 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.7% (1,462 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Murphysboro?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Murphysboro is as follows:
  • White: 71% (4,779 residents)
  • Black or African American: 15.7% (1,055 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.1% (481 residents)
  • Other: 6.2% (420 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Murphysboro?

There are 4,021 housing units in Murphysboro, reflecting a +2.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Murphysboro has a total of 3,373 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Murphysboro?

Murphysboro has a median household income of $44,154, representing a +4.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in Murphysboro, with a workforce of 3,021 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.8% (2,410 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.2% (611 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.6% (381 residents)
  • Private companies: 51.3% (1,549 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.6% (654 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.5% (437 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