Sycamore, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,559
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,120/yr
4.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,723
-1.8% year-over-year change

Sycamore population

How many people live in Sycamore

Sycamore is home to 18,559 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.1% of Sycamore locals are male, and 51.9% are female.

Total population
18,559
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.1%
8,934
Female
51.9%
9,625
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,934 48.1% 3.7%
Female 9,625 51.9% -0.0%
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 Sycamore is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 14.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
14.3%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,639 19.6% 9.9%
15 to 24 2,652 14.3% -4.1%
25 to 44 5,168 27.8% 7.6%
45 to 64 4,641 25% -0.8%
Over 65 2,459 13.2% -8.4%
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 Sycamore, 93.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.9% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 1.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,393 93.7% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 755 4.1% 1.6%
Non-citizens 411 2.2% 41.7%
Racial breakdown
White
83.9%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 15,568 83.9%
Black or African American 593 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 67 0.4%
Asian 353 1.9%
Two or more races 1,162 6.3%
Other 816 4.4%

Households in Sycamore

A peek inside Sycamore households

Sycamore has 7,401 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.8% are families, while the remaining 33.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,401
-1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,459
Family households
4,942
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,459 33.2% -4.0%
Family households 4,942 66.8% 0.1%
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 Sycamore

The housing landscape of Sycamore

Sycamore's housing consists of 7,723 units, with 55.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 20% 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 2.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,723
-1.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,289 55.5%
1 unit, attached 1,543 20%
2 units 187 2.4%
3 or 4 units 845 10.9%
5 to 9 units 534 6.9%
10 to 19 units 81 1%
20 to 49 units 28 0.4%
50 or more units 32 0.4%
Mobile home 184 2.4%
Homes built since 2020
106
8.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sycamore

In Sycamore, the median construction year is 1993. About 13.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 32.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,036 13.4% -3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 222 2.9% -11.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 391 5.1% -14.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 444 5.8% 14.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 967 12.5% -12.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 466 6% -6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,072 13.9% 11.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,486 32.2% 2.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 533 6.9% -11.5%
Built in 2020 or later 106 1.4% 8.2%
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.

Sycamore occupancy rates

Out of the 7,401 occupied housing units in Sycamore, 71.6% are owner-occupied, while 28.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,401
-1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,103
Owner occupied
5,298
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,103 28.4% -3.4%
Owner occupied 5,298 71.6% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.2%
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.

Sycamore housing costs

Housing costs in Sycamore come to a median of $1,476 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,140.

Median housing costs per month
$1,476/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 Sycamore
$1,140/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 Sycamore

Sycamore education at a glance

About 24.8% of the population in Sycamore went to high school, while 24.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 24.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 165 1.2% 7.8%
High school diploma 3,515 24.8% -2.4%
College diploma 3,502 24.7% -1.4%
Associate degree 1,105 7.8% -9.0%
Bachelor's degree 3,462 24.4% -0.2%
Graduate degree 2,448 17.2% 13.3%
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 Sycamore

How much people earn in Sycamore

The average annual household income in Sycamore was $107,817 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,120, reflecting a +4.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sycamore
$107,817/year
8.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sycamore
$84,120/year
4.1% year-over-year change

Sycamore income by age

In Sycamore, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,773. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $122,287 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,594, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,966 in earnings. Overall, 91.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,594 N/A
25 - 44 $83,773 3.8%
45 - 64 $122,287 2.1%
Over 65 $65,966 0.6%
Above poverty level
16,788
Below poverty level
1,503
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,788 91.8% 3.3%
Below poverty level 1,503 8.2% -12.8%

Average renter income in Sycamore

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sycamore, their median household income was $45,654 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$45,654
Rent-to-income ratio
30%
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 Sycamore

Workforce and job types in Sycamore

The job market in Sycamore is powered by 10,193 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, 7.9% run their own businesses, 67.6% are employed by private companies, and 17% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,193
2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
8,189
Blue collar
2,004
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,189 80.3% 3.3%
Blue collar 2,004 19.7% -0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
7.9%
Private companies
67.6%
Governmental workers
17%
Not for profit companies
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 809 7.9% 4.4%
Private companies 6,895 67.6% 4.3%
Governmental workers 1,736 17% 3.3%
Not for profit companies 753 7.4% -13.8%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
-18.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sycamore stands at 3%, 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 Sycamore

How people get around in Sycamore

Commuting methods vary: 81.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 8,227 81.3% 2.0%
Taxicab 5 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 57 0.6% -21.9%
Railroad 47 0.5% -47.2%
Bicycle 164 1.6% -11.3%
Walk 184 1.8% 91.7%
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 Sycamore by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60178 22,224 8,735 $92,913 $115,905

Explore more communities

FAQs about Sycamore demographics 

What is the total population of Sycamore?

Sycamore has a total population of 18,559 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 Sycamore?

The gender ratio in Sycamore is as follows:
  • 48.1% males (8,934 residents)
  • 51.9% females (9,625 residents)

What is the median age in Sycamore?

The median age in Sycamore is 36.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sycamore?

The age distribution in Sycamore is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (3,639 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.3% (2,652 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (5,168 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (4,641 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.2% (2,459 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sycamore?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sycamore is as follows:
  • White: 83.9% (15,568 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (593 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (67 residents)
  • Asian: 1.9% (353 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (1,162 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (816 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.7% of the population in Sycamore.

How many housing units are there in Sycamore?

There are 7,723 housing units in Sycamore, reflecting a -1.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sycamore has a total of 7,401 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sycamore?

Sycamore has a median household income of $84,120, representing a +4.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Sycamore, with a workforce of 10,193 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.3% (8,189 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.7% (2,004 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.9% (809 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.6% (6,895 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17% (1,736 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.4% (753 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