Urbana, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
39,341
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,346/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,228
1.2% year-over-year change

Urbana population

How many people live in Urbana

Urbana is home to 39,341 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Urbana locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
39,341
2.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
20,282
Female
48.4%
19,059
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,282 51.6% 3.9%
Female 19,059 48.4% 0.7%
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 Urbana is 26, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.9% are children under 15, then 36.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 14.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
26.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.9%
15 to 24
36.6%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
14.3%
Over 65
11.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,283 10.9% 15.3%
15 to 24 14,410 36.6% 2.4%
25 to 44 10,491 26.7% 2.8%
45 to 64 5,625 14.3% -2.0%
Over 65 4,532 11.5% -3.8%
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 Urbana, 77.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 15.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 56.2% of locals are Caucasian, 18.7% are African American and 14.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7%
Non-citizens
15.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 30,387 77.2% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,733 7% -3.9%
Non-citizens 6,221 15.8% 22.9%
Racial breakdown
White
56.2%
Black or African American
18.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
14.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.5%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 22,128 56.2%
Black or African American 7,371 18.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 23 0.1%
Asian 5,601 14.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 41 0.1%
Two or more races 3,720 9.5%
Other 457 1.2%

Households in Urbana

A peek inside Urbana households

Urbana has 16,856 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 35.8% are families, while the remaining 64.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,856
2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,817
Family households
6,039
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,817 64.2% 4.3%
Family households 6,039 35.8% -0.3%
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 Urbana

The housing landscape of Urbana

Urbana's housing consists of 19,228 units, with 38.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,228
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,413 38.6%
1 unit, attached 785 4.1%
2 units 772 4%
3 or 4 units 861 4.5%
5 to 9 units 2,014 10.5%
10 to 19 units 2,961 15.4%
20 to 49 units 1,953 10.2%
50 or more units 2,393 12.4%
Mobile home 76 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
82
15.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Urbana

In Urbana, the median construction year is 1980. About 13.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.6% 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 2,541 13.2% 8.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 906 4.7% 14.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,305 6.8% -10.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,617 13.6% 1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,330 12.1% -6.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,002 10.4% -8.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,076 10.8% -7.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,140 16.3% 8.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,229 11.6% 15.8%
Built in 2020 or later 82 0.4% 15.5%
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.

Urbana occupancy rates

Out of the 16,856 occupied housing units in Urbana, 37.3% are owner-occupied, while 62.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,856
2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
10,569
Owner occupied
6,287
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 10,569 62.7% -1.4%
Owner occupied 6,287 37.3% 10.2%
Unoccupied housing units
12.3%
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.

Urbana housing costs

Housing costs in Urbana come to a median of $997 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $972.

Median housing costs per month
$997/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 Urbana
$972/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 Urbana

Urbana education at a glance

About 17.6% of the population in Urbana went to high school, while 33.8% pursued college studies. Another 4.5% earned an associate degree and 19.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 521 1.5% 20.3%
High school diploma 6,011 17.6% -0.2%
College diploma 11,538 33.8% 4.8%
Associate degree 1,529 4.5% 2.8%
Bachelor's degree 6,799 19.9% -4.4%
Graduate degree 7,764 22.7% -3.4%
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 Urbana

How much people earn in Urbana

The average annual household income in Urbana was $71,068 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,346, reflecting a -1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Urbana
$71,068/year
-1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Urbana
$45,346/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Urbana income by age

In Urbana, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,592. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,663 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $17,297, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,242 in earnings. Overall, 72.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $17,297 -1.2%
25 - 44 $53,592 2.3%
45 - 64 $65,663 0.9%
Over 65 $60,242 -3.4%
Above poverty level
23,820
Below poverty level
9,234
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 23,820 72.1% -1.9%
Below poverty level 9,234 27.9% 14.7%

Average renter income in Urbana

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Urbana, their median household income was $26,521 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 44%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,521
Rent-to-income ratio
44%
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 Urbana

Workforce and job types in Urbana

The job market in Urbana is powered by 19,358 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 90.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 43.2% are employed by private companies, and 39.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,358
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
17,447
Blue collar
1,911
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 17,447 90.1% 2.0%
Blue collar 1,911 9.9% -2.1%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
43.2%
Governmental workers
39.4%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,306 6.8% 15.4%
Private companies 8,365 43.2% 6.2%
Governmental workers 7,623 39.4% -6.3%
Not for profit companies 2,064 10.7% 7.7%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
-17.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Urbana stands at 4.7%, 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 Urbana

How people get around in Urbana

In Urbana, the average commute time is 14 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 56.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 14% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
14 min
-0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,713 56.4% -2.5%
Bus or trolleybus 1,339 7% 0.0%
Motorcycle 94 0.5% 118.6%
Bicycle 548 2.9% -24.7%
Walk 2,651 14% -3.5%
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 Urbana by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
61801 27,891 11,189 $36,180 $64,399
61802 20,293 9,717 $61,620 $82,675

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FAQs about Urbana demographics 

What is the total population of Urbana?

Urbana has a total population of 39,341 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 +2.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Urbana?

The gender ratio in Urbana is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (20,282 residents)
  • 48.4% females (19,059 residents)

What is the median age in Urbana?

The median age in Urbana is 26.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Urbana?

The age distribution in Urbana is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.9% (4,283 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 36.6% (14,410 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (10,491 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 14.3% (5,625 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.5% (4,532 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Urbana?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Urbana is as follows:
  • White: 56.2% (22,128 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18.7% (7,371 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (23 residents)
  • Asian: 14.2% (5,601 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (41 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.5% (3,720 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (457 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.2% of the population in Urbana.

How many housing units are there in Urbana?

There are 19,228 housing units in Urbana, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Urbana has a total of 16,856 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Urbana?

Urbana has a median household income of $45,346, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.3% in Urbana, with a workforce of 19,358 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 90.1% (17,447 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9.9% (1,911 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (1,306 residents)
  • Private companies: 43.2% (8,365 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 39.4% (7,623 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (2,064 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