Greater Rockford, Northwest Illinois, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
164,141
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,750/yr
-3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
70,363
0.8% year-over-year change

Greater Rockford population

How many people live in Greater Rockford

Greater Rockford is home to 164,141 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Greater Rockford locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
164,141
-0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
80,258
Female
51.1%
83,883
Value Percent YoY change
Male 80,258 48.9% 0.2%
Female 83,883 51.1% -0.2%
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 Greater Rockford is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 25.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
25.9%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 32,011 19.5% -0.3%
15 to 24 20,213 12.3% -1.5%
25 to 44 39,995 24.4% -0.2%
45 to 64 42,452 25.9% -0.4%
Over 65 29,472 18% 2.3%
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 Greater Rockford, 92.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.1% of locals are Caucasian, 9.8% are African American and 2.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4%
Non-citizens
3.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 151,955 92.6% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,648 4% 1.7%
Non-citizens 5,539 3.4% -0.1%
Racial breakdown
White
72.1%
Black or African American
9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.1%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 118,343 72.1%
Black or African American 16,153 9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 794 0.5%
Asian 3,595 2.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 41 0%
Two or more races 18,150 11.1%
Other 7,064 4.3%

Households in Greater Rockford

A peek inside Greater Rockford households

Greater Rockford has 66,136 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.5% are families, while the remaining 36.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
66,136
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
24,161
Family households
41,975
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 24,161 36.5% 6.1%
Family households 41,975 63.5% -1.6%
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 Greater Rockford

The housing landscape of Greater Rockford

Greater Rockford's housing consists of 70,363 units, with 74.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.7% 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 1.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
70,363
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 52,347 74.4%
1 unit, attached 3,288 4.7%
2 units 2,384 3.4%
3 or 4 units 4,351 6.2%
5 to 9 units 2,363 3.4%
10 to 19 units 1,585 2.2%
20 to 49 units 961 1.4%
50 or more units 1,754 2.5%
Mobile home 1,318 1.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 10 0%
Homes built since 2020
377
36.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Rockford

In Greater Rockford, the median construction year is 1978. About 11.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 8,309 11.8% 2.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,777 5.4% -8.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,589 12.2% -3.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,268 11.8% 2.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,441 14.8% -1.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,477 10.6% -2.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 10,187 14.5% 4.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 10,770 15.3% 3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,166 3.1% 13.1%
Built in 2020 or later 377 0.5% 36.1%
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.

Greater Rockford occupancy rates

Out of the 66,136 occupied housing units in Greater Rockford, 69.7% are owner-occupied, while 30.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
66,136
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,036
Owner occupied
46,100
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,036 30.3% 0.0%
Owner occupied 46,100 69.7% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
6.0%
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.

Greater Rockford housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Rockford come to a median of $1,034 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,029.

Median housing costs per month
$1,034/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 Greater Rockford
$1,029/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 Greater Rockford

Greater Rockford education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Greater Rockford went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 15.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,222 2.6% 2.1%
High school diploma 51,180 40.9% -0.4%
College diploma 29,239 23.4% -2.7%
Associate degree 12,260 9.8% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 18,869 15.1% 3.4%
Graduate degree 10,412 8.3% 6.0%
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 Greater Rockford

How much people earn in Greater Rockford

The average annual household income in Greater Rockford was $97,982 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,750, reflecting a -3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Rockford
$97,982/year
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Rockford
$70,750/year
-3.7% year-over-year change

Greater Rockford income by age

In Greater Rockford, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,895. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $92,174 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,519, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,756 in earnings. Overall, 86.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,519 6.2%
25 - 44 $83,895 6.6%
45 - 64 $92,174 -4.4%
Over 65 $47,756 -8.3%
Above poverty level
138,932
Below poverty level
21,269
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 138,932 86.7% 0.4%
Below poverty level 21,269 13.3% -2.8%

Employment in Greater Rockford

Workforce and job types in Greater Rockford

71% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.8% run their own businesses, 69.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
54,055
Blue collar
22,082
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 54,055 71% 0.4%
Blue collar 22,082 29% -1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.8%
Private companies
69.5%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,969 7.8% 5.1%
Private companies 52,900 69.5% -1.4%
Governmental workers 9,296 12.2% 2.6%
Not for profit companies 7,972 10.5% 0.7%

Transportation in Greater Rockford

How people get around in Greater Rockford

In Greater Rockford, the average commute time is 60 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
60 min
50.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 65,870 97.6% -1.4%
Taxicab 319 0.5% 17.7%
Bus or trolleybus 198 0.3% -24.4%
Ferryboat 8 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 110 0.2% -2.6%
Bicycle 216 0.3% 9.6%
Walk 799 1.2% 8.1%
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 Greater Rockford by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61016 5,465 2,244 $84,883 $114,488
61024 2,318 1,036 $70,750 $86,898
61063 4,011 1,667 $84,276 $108,680
61072 11,285 4,213 $104,938 $119,938
61073 20,194 7,465 $102,064 $119,398
61077 97 48 $0 $0
61079 210 101 $46,367 $66,476
61080 10,955 4,716 $76,579 $90,285
61088 6,167 2,332 $98,088 $128,164
61101 19,318 7,750 $46,163 $62,013

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FAQs about Greater Rockford demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Rockford?

Greater Rockford has a total population of 164,141 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 -0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Rockford?

The gender ratio in Greater Rockford is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (80,258 residents)
  • 51.1% females (83,883 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Rockford?

The median age in Greater Rockford is 40.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Rockford?

The age distribution in Greater Rockford is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (32,011 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (20,213 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (39,995 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.9% (42,452 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (29,472 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Rockford?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Rockford is as follows:
  • White: 72.1% (118,343 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.8% (16,153 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (794 residents)
  • Asian: 2.2% (3,595 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (41 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.1% (18,150 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (7,064 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.6% of the population in Greater Rockford.

How many housing units are there in Greater Rockford?

There are 70,363 housing units in Greater Rockford, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Greater Rockford has a total of 66,136 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Rockford?

Greater Rockford has a median household income of $70,750, representing a -3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Rockford?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71% (54,055 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29% (22,082 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.8% (5,969 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.5% (52,900 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (9,296 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (7,972 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