Riverdale, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,340
-1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$39,833/yr
-12.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,054
-3.3% year-over-year change

Riverdale population

How many people live in Riverdale

Riverdale is home to 10,340 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Riverdale locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
10,340
-1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
5,063
Female
51%
5,277
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,063 49% -0.7%
Female 5,277 51% -2.6%
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 Riverdale is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 27.4% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.9% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
27.4%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
24.9%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,828 27.4% 1.4%
15 to 24 1,256 12.2% 2.5%
25 to 44 2,579 24.9% -5.8%
45 to 64 2,513 24.3% -3.2%
Over 65 1,164 11.3% -0.3%
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 Riverdale, 96.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 0.6% of locals are Caucasian, 89.9% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,005 96.8% -3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 227 2.2% 92.4%
Non-citizens 108 1% 35.0%
Racial breakdown
White
0.6%
Black or African American
89.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.5%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 63 0.6%
Black or African American 9,299 89.9%
Asian 15 0.2%
Two or more races 773 7.5%
Other 190 1.8%

Households in Riverdale

A peek inside Riverdale households

Riverdale has 3,760 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.4% are families, while the remaining 35.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,760
-2.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,340
Family households
2,420
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,340 35.6% -5.9%
Family households 2,420 64.4% -1.1%
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 Riverdale

The housing landscape of Riverdale

Riverdale's housing consists of 5,054 units, with 51.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.2% 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 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,054
-3.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,615 51.7%
1 unit, attached 416 8.2%
2 units 138 2.7%
3 or 4 units 396 7.8%
5 to 9 units 738 14.6%
10 to 19 units 461 9.1%
20 to 49 units 121 2.4%
50 or more units 89 1.8%
Mobile home 80 1.6%
Homes built since 2020
20
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Riverdale

In Riverdale, the median construction year is 1957. About 14.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 739 14.6% -8.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 524 10.4% 1.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,754 34.7% -7.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 724 14.3% -7.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 569 11.3% -10.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 491 9.7% 34.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 43 0.8% 16.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 101 2% -30.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 89 1.8% 134.2%
Built in 2020 or later 20 0.4% N/A
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.

Riverdale occupancy rates

Out of the 3,760 occupied housing units in Riverdale, 51.5% are owner-occupied, while 48.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 25.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,760
-2.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,822
Owner occupied
1,938
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,822 48.5% 0.2%
Owner occupied 1,938 51.5% -5.6%
Unoccupied housing units
25.6%
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.

Riverdale housing costs

Housing costs in Riverdale come to a median of $1,192 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,231.

Median housing costs per month
$1,192/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 Riverdale
$1,231/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 Riverdale

Riverdale education at a glance

About 44.8% of the population in Riverdale went to high school, while 31.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.3% earned an associate degree and 8.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 132 1.9% -15.9%
High school diploma 3,144 44.8% 4.7%
College diploma 2,218 31.6% -13.9%
Associate degree 440 6.3% 4.8%
Bachelor's degree 612 8.7% -8.4%
Graduate degree 464 6.6% 0.9%
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 Riverdale

How much people earn in Riverdale

The average annual household income in Riverdale was $52,193 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $39,833, reflecting a -12.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Riverdale
$52,193/year
-4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Riverdale
$39,833/year
-12.9% year-over-year change

Riverdale income by age

In Riverdale, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $28,136. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,714 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,917, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,528 in earnings. Overall, 58.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,917 0.6%
25 - 44 $28,136 -22.9%
45 - 64 $51,714 -0.9%
Over 65 $42,528 -10.8%
Above poverty level
5,876
Below poverty level
4,227
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,876 58.2% -15.3%
Below poverty level 4,227 41.8% 26.0%

Average renter income in Riverdale

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Riverdale, their median household income was $31,250 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 47.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$31,250
Rent-to-income ratio
47.3%
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 Riverdale

Workforce and job types in Riverdale

The job market in Riverdale is powered by 3,591 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.3% run their own businesses, 61.1% are employed by private companies, and 20.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,591
-9.1% year-over-year change
White collar
2,526
Blue collar
1,065
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,526 70.3% -7.4%
Blue collar 1,065 29.7% -13.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.3%
Private companies
61.1%
Governmental workers
20.5%
Not for profit companies
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 261 7.3% 6.5%
Private companies 2,194 61.1% -9.3%
Governmental workers 735 20.5% -12.0%
Not for profit companies 401 11.2% -11.3%
Unemployment rate
16.1%
5.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Riverdale stands at 16.1%, 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 Riverdale

How people get around in Riverdale

Commuting methods vary: 66.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% 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 2,268 66.4% -13.6%
Taxicab 130 3.8% 120.3%
Bus or trolleybus 257 7.5% -32.4%
Subway or elevated 29 0.8% N/A
Railroad 218 6.4% -12.4%
Walk 110 3.2% -0.9%
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 Riverdale by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60827 24,713 9,447 $37,217 $51,168

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FAQs about Riverdale demographics 

What is the total population of Riverdale?

Riverdale has a total population of 10,340 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 -1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Riverdale?

The gender ratio in Riverdale is as follows:
  • 49% males (5,063 residents)
  • 51% females (5,277 residents)

What is the median age in Riverdale?

The median age in Riverdale is 32.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Riverdale?

The age distribution in Riverdale is as follows:
  • Under 15: 27.4% (2,828 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (1,256 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.9% (2,579 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (2,513 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.3% (1,164 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Riverdale?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Riverdale is as follows:
  • White: 0.6% (63 residents)
  • Black or African American: 89.9% (9,299 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (15 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.5% (773 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (190 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.8% of the population in Riverdale.

How many housing units are there in Riverdale?

There are 5,054 housing units in Riverdale, reflecting a -3.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Riverdale has a total of 3,760 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Riverdale?

Riverdale has a median household income of $39,833, representing a -12.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 83.9% in Riverdale, with a workforce of 3,591 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.3% (2,526 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.7% (1,065 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.3% (261 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.1% (2,194 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.5% (735 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.2% (401 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