North Chicago, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
30,643
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,172/yr
5.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,894
-2.4% year-over-year change

North Chicago population

How many people live in North Chicago

North Chicago is home to 30,643 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 60.6% of North Chicago locals are male, and 39.4% are female.

Total population
30,643
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
60.6%
18,577
Female
39.4%
12,066
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,577 60.6% 0.7%
Female 12,066 39.4% -2.1%
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 North Chicago is 23, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.9% are children under 15, then 40.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 11.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 6.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
23.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.9%
15 to 24
40.5%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
11.2%
Over 65
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,874 15.9% 0.6%
15 to 24 12,412 40.5% 2.6%
25 to 44 7,834 25.6% -6.1%
45 to 64 3,422 11.2% 0.8%
Over 65 2,101 6.9% 0.2%
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 North Chicago, 77.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 34.2% of locals are Caucasian, 25% are African American and 6.1% have Asian roots. Another 2.7% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 13% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 18.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.3%
Non-citizens
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,757 77.5% -2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,165 10.3% 6.7%
Non-citizens 3,721 12.1% 7.4%
Racial breakdown
White
34.2%
Black or African American
25%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.7%
Asian
6.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
18.8%
Other
13%
Value Percent
White 10,492 34.2%
Black or African American 7,656 25%
American Indian and Alaska Native 815 2.7%
Asian 1,856 6.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 83 0.3%
Two or more races 5,764 18.8%
Other 3,977 13%

Households in North Chicago

A peek inside North Chicago households

North Chicago has 7,036 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 59.4% are families, while the remaining 40.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,036
-3.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,859
Family households
4,177
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,859 40.6% -5.9%
Family households 4,177 59.4% -2.0%
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 North Chicago

The housing landscape of North Chicago

North Chicago's housing consists of 7,894 units, with 37.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.7% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
7,894
-2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,961 37.5%
1 unit, attached 1,079 13.7%
2 units 905 11.5%
3 or 4 units 700 8.9%
5 to 9 units 828 10.5%
10 to 19 units 586 7.4%
20 to 49 units 417 5.3%
50 or more units 398 5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 20 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
155
43.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in North Chicago

In North Chicago, the median construction year is 1973. About 18.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,479 18.7% -1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 465 5.9% 11.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 609 7.7% -13.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 992 12.6% -11.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,366 17.3% 12.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 557 7.1% -26.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,135 14.4% -8.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 655 8.3% 9.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 481 6.1% 15.6%
Built in 2020 or later 155 2% 43.5%
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.

North Chicago occupancy rates

Out of the 7,036 occupied housing units in North Chicago, 32.6% are owner-occupied, while 67.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,036
-3.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,744
Owner occupied
2,292
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,744 67.4% -2.5%
Owner occupied 2,292 32.6% -5.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.9%
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.

North Chicago housing costs

Housing costs in North Chicago come to a median of $1,369 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,426.

Median housing costs per month
$1,369/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 North Chicago
$1,426/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 North Chicago

North Chicago education at a glance

About 48.5% of the population in North Chicago went to high school, while 26.9% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,478 5.9% 1.2%
High school diploma 12,168 48.5% -0.9%
College diploma 6,749 26.9% 0.0%
Associate degree 1,366 5.4% -14.3%
Bachelor's degree 2,245 9% 0.3%
Graduate degree 1,066 4.2% 18.8%
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 North Chicago

How much people earn in North Chicago

The average annual household income in North Chicago was $70,994 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,172, reflecting a +5.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in North Chicago
$70,994/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in North Chicago
$60,172/year
5.9% year-over-year change

North Chicago income by age

In North Chicago, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,818. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $81,897 overall. Overall, 75.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $53,818 4.2%
45 - 64 $81,897 -3.1%
Over 65 $43,672 7.3%
Above poverty level
14,256
Below poverty level
4,595
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,256 75.6% -4.3%
Below poverty level 4,595 24.4% 9.5%

Average renter income in North Chicago

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in North Chicago, their median household income was $42,358 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
$42,358
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 North Chicago

Workforce and job types in North Chicago

The job market in North Chicago is powered by 8,939 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 64% are employed by private companies, and 20.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,939
-7.8% year-over-year change
White collar
6,446
Blue collar
2,493
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,446 72.1% -7.6%
Blue collar 2,493 27.9% -8.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
64%
Governmental workers
20.6%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 583 6.5% 17.8%
Private companies 5,725 64% -13.1%
Governmental workers 1,837 20.6% -4.6%
Not for profit companies 794 8.9% 14.9%
Unemployment rate
9.9%
5.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in North Chicago stands at 9.9%, 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 North Chicago

How people get around in North Chicago

In North Chicago, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 49.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 22.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,533 49.9% -9.8%
Taxicab 19 0.1% 72.7%
Bus or trolleybus 145 0.8% 3.6%
Bicycle 38 0.2% -11.6%
Walk 3,806 22.3% 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 North Chicago by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60064 14,884 5,066 $49,195 $67,564

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FAQs about North Chicago demographics 

What is the total population of North Chicago?

North Chicago has a total population of 30,643 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 North Chicago?

The gender ratio in North Chicago is as follows:
  • 60.6% males (18,577 residents)
  • 39.4% females (12,066 residents)

What is the median age in North Chicago?

The median age in North Chicago is 23.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in North Chicago?

The age distribution in North Chicago is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.9% (4,874 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 40.5% (12,412 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (7,834 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 11.2% (3,422 residents)
  • Over 65: 6.9% (2,101 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of North Chicago?

The racial and ethnic makeup of North Chicago is as follows:
  • White: 34.2% (10,492 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25% (7,656 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.7% (815 residents)
  • Asian: 6.1% (1,856 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (83 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.8% (5,764 residents)
  • Other: 13% (3,977 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.5% of the population in North Chicago.

How many housing units are there in North Chicago?

There are 7,894 housing units in North Chicago, reflecting a -2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

North Chicago has a total of 7,036 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in North Chicago?

North Chicago has a median household income of $60,172, representing a +5.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for North Chicago?

The employment rate is 90.1% in North Chicago, with a workforce of 8,939 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.1% (6,446 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.9% (2,493 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (583 residents)
  • Private companies: 64% (5,725 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.6% (1,837 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (794 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