Northbrook, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
34,585
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$157,782/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,435
-0.4% year-over-year change

Northbrook population

How many people live in Northbrook

Northbrook is home to 34,585 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Northbrook locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
34,585
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
16,980
Female
50.9%
17,605
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,980 49.1% 0.8%
Female 17,605 50.9% -1.1%
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 Northbrook is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 9.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.9% of the population, while another 29.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
49.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
9.5%
25 to 44
17.9%
45 to 64
29.2%
Over 65
26.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,807 16.8% -4.2%
15 to 24 3,297 9.5% 1.5%
25 to 44 6,180 17.9% -1.0%
45 to 64 10,113 29.2% -1.2%
Over 65 9,188 26.6% 3.7%
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 Northbrook, 78.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 17% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 16.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
17%
Non-citizens
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 27,067 78.3% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,865 17% -0.9%
Non-citizens 1,653 4.8% -2.2%
Racial breakdown
White
75.9%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
16.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 26,239 75.9%
Black or African American 626 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6 0%
Asian 5,600 16.2%
Two or more races 1,873 5.4%
Other 241 0.7%

Households in Northbrook

A peek inside Northbrook households

Northbrook has 13,302 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 73% are families, while the remaining 27% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,302
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,593
Family households
9,709
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,593 27% 0.6%
Family households 9,709 73% -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 Northbrook

The housing landscape of Northbrook

Northbrook's housing consists of 14,435 units, with 67.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.2% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,435
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,703 67.2%
1 unit, attached 1,622 11.2%
2 units 178 1.2%
3 or 4 units 183 1.3%
5 to 9 units 79 0.6%
10 to 19 units 339 2.4%
20 to 49 units 836 5.8%
50 or more units 1,459 10.1%
Mobile home 36 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
186
64.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northbrook

In Northbrook, the median construction year is 1976. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 593 4.1% 22.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 475 3.3% -10.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,688 11.7% -8.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,779 19.2% -1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,057 21.2% 6.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,761 12.2% -1.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,050 7.3% -10.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,454 10.1% -3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,392 9.6% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 186 1.3% 64.6%
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.

Northbrook occupancy rates

Out of the 13,302 occupied housing units in Northbrook, 87.2% are owner-occupied, while 12.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,302
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,698
Owner occupied
11,604
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,698 12.8% -4.8%
Owner occupied 11,604 87.2% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
7.8%
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.

Northbrook housing costs

Housing costs in Northbrook come to a median of $2,446 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,463.

Median housing costs per month
$2,446/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 Northbrook
$2,463/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 Northbrook

Northbrook education at a glance

About 14.2% of the population in Northbrook went to high school, while 10.9% pursued college studies. Another 3.6% earned an associate degree and 32.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 37.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 469 1.7% 1.1%
High school diploma 3,862 14.2% 8.0%
College diploma 2,983 10.9% -1.8%
Associate degree 993 3.6% -5.9%
Bachelor's degree 8,830 32.4% -0.8%
Graduate degree 10,129 37.2% -1.1%
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 Northbrook

How much people earn in Northbrook

The average annual household income in Northbrook was $222,214 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $157,782, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northbrook
$222,214/year
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northbrook
$157,782/year
1.6% year-over-year change

Northbrook income by age

In Northbrook, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $226,714. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $211,750 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,697, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $106,337 in earnings. Overall, 95.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,697 2.6%
25 - 44 $226,714 6.5%
45 - 64 $211,750 2.2%
Over 65 $106,337 0.7%
Above poverty level
32,219
Below poverty level
1,473
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 32,219 95.6% 0.0%
Below poverty level 1,473 4.4% -3.7%

Average renter income in Northbrook

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Northbrook, their median household income was $80,313 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$80,313
Rent-to-income ratio
36.8%
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 Northbrook

Workforce and job types in Northbrook

The job market in Northbrook is powered by 16,225 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 93.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 6.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 20.3% run their own businesses, 60.4% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,225
-1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
15,183
Blue collar
1,042
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,183 93.6% -0.9%
Blue collar 1,042 6.4% -13.4%
Employer type
Self employees
20.3%
Private companies
60.4%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,294 20.3% -0.8%
Private companies 9,795 60.4% -2.7%
Governmental workers 1,627 10% 4.4%
Not for profit companies 1,509 9.3% -4.7%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-2.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Northbrook stands at 3.2%, 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 Northbrook

How people get around in Northbrook

Commuting methods vary: 58% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% 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 9,296 58% -7.9%
Taxicab 52 0.3% 6.1%
Bus or trolleybus 72 0.4% -18.2%
Subway or elevated 27 0.2% N/A
Railroad 816 5.1% -17.7%
Bicycle 96 0.6% 18.5%
Walk 321 2% -12.8%
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 Northbrook by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60062 41,406 16,135 $143,323 $210,460

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FAQs about Northbrook demographics 

What is the total population of Northbrook?

Northbrook has a total population of 34,585 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northbrook?

The gender ratio in Northbrook is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (16,980 residents)
  • 50.9% females (17,605 residents)

What is the median age in Northbrook?

The median age in Northbrook is 49.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Northbrook?

The age distribution in Northbrook is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (5,807 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.5% (3,297 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.9% (6,180 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.2% (10,113 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.6% (9,188 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northbrook?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northbrook is as follows:
  • White: 75.9% (26,239 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (626 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (6 residents)
  • Asian: 16.2% (5,600 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (1,873 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (241 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.3% of the population in Northbrook.

How many housing units are there in Northbrook?

There are 14,435 housing units in Northbrook, reflecting a -0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northbrook has a total of 13,302 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northbrook?

Northbrook has a median household income of $157,782, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Northbrook, with a workforce of 16,225 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93.6% (15,183 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 6.4% (1,042 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 20.3% (3,294 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.4% (9,795 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (1,627 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.3% (1,509 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