Oswego, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
36,375
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$123,792/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,440
2.0% year-over-year change

Oswego population

How many people live in Oswego

Oswego is home to 36,375 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48% of Oswego locals are male, and 52% are female.

Total population
36,375
2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48%
17,480
Female
52%
18,895
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,480 48% 1.8%
Female 18,895 52% 3.3%
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 Oswego is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.7% are children under 15, then 15.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 27.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.7%
15 to 24
15.4%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
27.8%
Over 65
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,526 20.7% 2.1%
15 to 24 5,597 15.4% 6.1%
25 to 44 9,146 25.1% 9.2%
45 to 64 10,122 27.8% -2.3%
Over 65 3,984 11% -2.2%
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 Oswego, 84.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 64.8% of locals are Caucasian, 10.4% are African American and 4.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 17% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.4%
Non-citizens
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 30,810 84.7% 1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,051 8.4% 9.9%
Non-citizens 2,514 6.9% 3.4%
Racial breakdown
White
64.8%
Black or African American
10.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
4.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
17%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 23,581 64.8%
Black or African American 3,766 10.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 358 1%
Asian 1,674 4.6%
Two or more races 6,172 17%
Other 824 2.3%

Households in Oswego

A peek inside Oswego households

Oswego has 12,243 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 78.6% are families, while the remaining 21.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,243
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,617
Family households
9,626
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,617 21.4% 14.6%
Family households 9,626 78.6% -1.9%
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 Oswego

The housing landscape of Oswego

Oswego's housing consists of 12,440 units, with 71.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 18.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
12,440
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,905 71.6%
1 unit, attached 2,288 18.4%
2 units 38 0.3%
3 or 4 units 338 2.7%
5 to 9 units 135 1.1%
10 to 19 units 403 3.2%
20 to 49 units 149 1.2%
50 or more units 184 1.5%
Homes built since 2020
353
97.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Oswego

In Oswego, the median construction year is 2002. About 3.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 45.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 401 3.2% 4.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 31 0.2% -75.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 260 2.1% 20.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 295 2.4% 28.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 436 3.5% -2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 540 4.3% -21.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,172 25.5% -9.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,616 45.1% 5.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,336 10.7% 23.4%
Built in 2020 or later 353 2.8% 97.2%
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.

Oswego occupancy rates

Out of the 12,243 occupied housing units in Oswego, 87.9% are owner-occupied, while 12.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,243
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,484
Owner occupied
10,759
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,484 12.1% -0.3%
Owner occupied 10,759 87.9% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
1.6%
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.

Oswego housing costs

Housing costs in Oswego come to a median of $2,052 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,860.

Median housing costs per month
$2,052/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 Oswego
$1,860/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 Oswego

Oswego education at a glance

About 25.3% of the population in Oswego went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 25% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 338 1.3% -47.1%
High school diploma 6,785 25.3% 5.3%
College diploma 6,048 22.6% 11.1%
Associate degree 2,809 10.5% -11.8%
Bachelor's degree 6,707 25% 5.6%
Graduate degree 4,116 15.4% 3.1%
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 Oswego

How much people earn in Oswego

The average annual household income in Oswego was $138,748 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $123,792, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Oswego
$138,748/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Oswego
$123,792/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Oswego income by age

In Oswego, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $139,864. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $132,159 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $107,038, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,782 in earnings. Overall, 97.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $107,038 -2.3%
25 - 44 $139,864 12.0%
45 - 64 $132,159 -1.0%
Over 65 $67,782 10.5%
Above poverty level
35,000
Below poverty level
944
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 35,000 97.4% 2.2%
Below poverty level 944 2.6% 18.3%

Average renter income in Oswego

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Oswego, their median household income was $46,987 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 47.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,987
Rent-to-income ratio
47.5%
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 Oswego

Workforce and job types in Oswego

The job market in Oswego is powered by 19,315 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.3% run their own businesses, 73.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,315
2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
15,505
Blue collar
3,810
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,505 80.3% 3.8%
Blue collar 3,810 19.7% -3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
6.3%
Private companies
73.1%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,223 6.3% -17.6%
Private companies 14,122 73.1% 6.9%
Governmental workers 2,737 14.2% -6.9%
Not for profit companies 1,233 6.4% -0.6%
Unemployment rate
2.6%
-0.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Oswego stands at 2.6%, 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 Oswego

How people get around in Oswego

Commuting methods vary: 80.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% 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 15,156 80.2% -0.2%
Bus or trolleybus 16 0.1% N/A
Railroad 220 1.2% 103.7%
Motorcycle 8 0% -27.3%
Walk 72 0.4% 9.1%
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 Oswego by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60538 30,514 10,175 $97,131 $106,926
60543 43,047 14,469 $119,371 $136,505

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FAQs about Oswego demographics 

What is the total population of Oswego?

Oswego has a total population of 36,375 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 +2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Oswego?

The gender ratio in Oswego is as follows:
  • 48% males (17,480 residents)
  • 52% females (18,895 residents)

What is the median age in Oswego?

The median age in Oswego is 38.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Oswego?

The age distribution in Oswego is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.7% (7,526 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.4% (5,597 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (9,146 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.8% (10,122 residents)
  • Over 65: 11% (3,984 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oswego?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Oswego is as follows:
  • White: 64.8% (23,581 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.4% (3,766 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (358 residents)
  • Asian: 4.6% (1,674 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 17% (6,172 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (824 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.7% of the population in Oswego.

How many housing units are there in Oswego?

There are 12,440 housing units in Oswego, reflecting a +2.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Oswego has a total of 12,243 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Oswego?

Oswego has a median household income of $123,792, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.4% in Oswego, with a workforce of 19,315 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.3% (15,505 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.7% (3,810 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.3% (1,223 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.1% (14,122 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (2,737 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (1,233 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