Pontiac, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,294
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,279/yr
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,959
-2.9% year-over-year change

Pontiac population

How many people live in Pontiac

Pontiac is home to 11,294 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.9% of Pontiac locals are male, and 48.1% are female.

Total population
11,294
-1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.9%
5,863
Female
48.1%
5,431
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,863 51.9% -1.7%
Female 5,431 48.1% -1.6%
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 Pontiac is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.1% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 26.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.1%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
26.1%
Over 65
21.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,593 14.1% 4.9%
15 to 24 1,317 11.7% 3.5%
25 to 44 3,029 26.8% -4.0%
45 to 64 2,951 26.1% -5.9%
Over 65 2,404 21.3% 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 Pontiac, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.8% of locals are Caucasian, 9.3% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,949 97% -2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 181 1.6% -8.1%
Non-citizens 164 1.4% 45.1%
Racial breakdown
White
82.8%
Black or African American
9.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 9,350 82.8%
Black or African American 1,046 9.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 7 0.1%
Asian 147 1.3%
Two or more races 604 5.4%
Other 140 1.2%

Households in Pontiac

A peek inside Pontiac households

Pontiac has 4,457 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.7% are families, while the remaining 43.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,457
-4.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,929
Family households
2,528
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,929 43.3% -6.9%
Family households 2,528 56.7% -3.1%
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 Pontiac

The housing landscape of Pontiac

Pontiac's housing consists of 4,959 units, with 65.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.3% 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 6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,959
-2.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,234 65.2%
1 unit, attached 162 3.3%
2 units 194 3.9%
3 or 4 units 412 8.3%
5 to 9 units 229 4.6%
10 to 19 units 161 3.2%
20 to 49 units 35 0.7%
50 or more units 235 4.7%
Mobile home 297 6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pontiac

In Pontiac, the median construction year is 1965. About 24.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9% 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 1,234 24.9% -7.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 444 9% 8.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 362 7.3% -0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 886 17.9% 6.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 775 15.6% -14.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 541 10.9% 19.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 413 8.3% -4.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 216 4.4% -20.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 88 1.8% -12.0%
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.

Pontiac occupancy rates

Out of the 4,457 occupied housing units in Pontiac, 63.2% are owner-occupied, while 36.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,457
-4.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,638
Owner occupied
2,819
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,638 36.8% -0.1%
Owner occupied 2,819 63.2% -7.3%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Pontiac housing costs

Housing costs in Pontiac come to a median of $867 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $842.

Median housing costs per month
$867/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 Pontiac
$842/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 Pontiac

Pontiac education at a glance

About 55.2% of the population in Pontiac went to high school, while 20% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 9.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 410 4.4% 49.1%
High school diploma 5,139 55.2% 1.0%
College diploma 1,861 20% -16.1%
Associate degree 506 5.4% 7.4%
Bachelor's degree 863 9.3% 4.1%
Graduate degree 535 5.7% -12.4%
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 Pontiac

How much people earn in Pontiac

The average annual household income in Pontiac was $78,127 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,279, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pontiac
$78,127/year
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pontiac
$61,279/year
2.9% year-over-year change

Pontiac income by age

In Pontiac, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,458. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,557 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,615, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,724 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 $44,615 13.1%
25 - 44 $91,458 11.5%
45 - 64 $61,557 -9.3%
Over 65 $42,724 3.1%
Above poverty level
8,219
Below poverty level
1,258
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,219 86.7% -5.8%
Below poverty level 1,258 13.3% 31.3%

Average renter income in Pontiac

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Pontiac, their median household income was $31,671 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$31,671
Rent-to-income ratio
31.9%
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 Pontiac

Workforce and job types in Pontiac

The job market in Pontiac is powered by 4,657 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6% run their own businesses, 72.3% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,657
-5.5% year-over-year change
White collar
2,960
Blue collar
1,697
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,960 63.6% -9.1%
Blue collar 1,697 36.4% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6%
Private companies
72.3%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 277 6% -19.5%
Private companies 3,368 72.3% -1.8%
Governmental workers 662 14.2% -4.2%
Not for profit companies 350 7.5% -24.2%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-4.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pontiac stands at 4.2%, 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 Pontiac

How people get around in Pontiac

In Pontiac, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.6% 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
0.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,052 88.4% -4.4%
Taxicab 7 0.2% 40.0%
Bicycle 69 1.5% -38.4%
Walk 165 3.6% -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 Pontiac by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61764 13,668 5,377 $68,781 $84,509

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FAQs about Pontiac demographics 

What is the total population of Pontiac?

Pontiac has a total population of 11,294 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 -1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pontiac?

The gender ratio in Pontiac is as follows:
  • 51.9% males (5,863 residents)
  • 48.1% females (5,431 residents)

What is the median age in Pontiac?

The median age in Pontiac is 42.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pontiac?

The age distribution in Pontiac is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.1% (1,593 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (1,317 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (3,029 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.1% (2,951 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.3% (2,404 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pontiac?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pontiac is as follows:
  • White: 82.8% (9,350 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.3% (1,046 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (7 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (147 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (604 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (140 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Pontiac.

How many housing units are there in Pontiac?

There are 4,959 housing units in Pontiac, reflecting a -2.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pontiac has a total of 4,457 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pontiac?

Pontiac has a median household income of $61,279, representing a +2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Pontiac, with a workforce of 4,657 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.6% (2,960 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.4% (1,697 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6% (277 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.3% (3,368 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (662 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.5% (350 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