West Chicago, IL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,395
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$99,927/yr
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,745
0.0% year-over-year change

West Chicago population

How many people live in West Chicago

West Chicago is home to 25,395 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.1% of West Chicago locals are male, and 48.9% are female.

Total population
25,395
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.1%
12,975
Female
48.9%
12,420
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,975 51.1% 1.4%
Female 12,420 48.9% -1.7%
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 West Chicago is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.8% are children under 15, then 15.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 27.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.8%
15 to 24
15.7%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
27.7%
Over 65
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,278 20.8% 7.7%
15 to 24 3,984 15.7% -12.3%
25 to 44 6,258 24.6% 0.8%
45 to 64 7,045 27.7% -0.5%
Over 65 2,830 11.1% 4.7%
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 West Chicago, 65.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 15.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 19.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 39.8% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 10.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 21.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
65.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
15.6%
Non-citizens
19.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,543 65.1% -1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,969 15.6% -5.6%
Non-citizens 4,883 19.2% 11.5%
Racial breakdown
White
39.8%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
10.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
21.9%
Other
23.6%
Value Percent
White 10,101 39.8%
Black or African American 821 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 288 1.1%
Asian 2,639 10.4%
Two or more races 5,555 21.9%
Other 5,991 23.6%

Households in West Chicago

A peek inside West Chicago households

West Chicago has 7,459 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 77.2% are families, while the remaining 22.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,459
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,699
Family households
5,760
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,699 22.8% 6.0%
Family households 5,760 77.2% -1.2%
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 West Chicago

The housing landscape of West Chicago

West Chicago's housing consists of 7,745 units, with 67.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.3% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,745
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,205 67.2%
1 unit, attached 565 7.3%
2 units 243 3.1%
3 or 4 units 138 1.8%
5 to 9 units 250 3.2%
10 to 19 units 734 9.5%
20 to 49 units 251 3.2%
50 or more units 336 4.3%
Mobile home 23 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
5
150.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Chicago

In West Chicago, the median construction year is 1980. About 12.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 950 12.3% -4.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 97 1.2% -11.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 772 10% 11.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 649 8.4% 17.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,415 18.3% -9.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 802 10.4% 4.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,627 21% -5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,357 17.5% 7.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 71 0.9% -15.5%
Built in 2020 or later 5 0.1% 150.0%
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.

West Chicago occupancy rates

Out of the 7,459 occupied housing units in West Chicago, 71% are owner-occupied, while 29% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,459
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,167
Owner occupied
5,292
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,167 29% 10.4%
Owner occupied 5,292 71% -3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
3.7%
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.

West Chicago housing costs

Housing costs in West Chicago come to a median of $1,702 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,469.

Median housing costs per month
$1,702/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 West Chicago
$1,469/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 West Chicago

West Chicago education at a glance

About 34.6% of the population in West Chicago went to high school, while 16.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 17.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,221 11.8% 9.6%
High school diploma 6,489 34.6% -4.7%
College diploma 3,060 16.3% -7.4%
Associate degree 1,534 8.2% 0.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,274 17.5% -2.4%
Graduate degree 2,164 11.6% 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 West Chicago

How much people earn in West Chicago

The average annual household income in West Chicago was $125,614 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 $99,927, reflecting a -0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Chicago
$125,614/year
-1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Chicago
$99,927/year
-0.6% year-over-year change

West Chicago income by age

In West Chicago, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,139. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $134,178 overall. Overall, 87.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $80,139 -4.3%
45 - 64 $134,178 5.3%
Over 65 $71,458 -2.9%
Above poverty level
21,565
Below poverty level
3,203
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 21,565 87.1% -1.0%
Below poverty level 3,203 12.9% 5.5%

Average renter income in West Chicago

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in West Chicago, their median household income was $45,110 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$45,110
Rent-to-income ratio
39.1%
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 West Chicago

Workforce and job types in West Chicago

The job market in West Chicago is powered by 12,932 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 77.4% are employed by private companies, and 8.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,932
-2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
9,000
Blue collar
3,932
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,000 69.6% -4.2%
Blue collar 3,932 30.4% 1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
77.4%
Governmental workers
8.6%
Not for profit companies
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 936 7.2% 3.2%
Private companies 10,003 77.4% -2.0%
Governmental workers 1,112 8.6% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 881 6.8% -16.3%
Unemployment rate
9.5%
-9.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in West Chicago stands at 9.5%, 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 West Chicago

How people get around in West Chicago

In West Chicago, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-2.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,569 83.9% -3.0%
Taxicab 148 1.2% 16.5%
Bus or trolleybus 16 0.1% -20.0%
Railroad 126 1% -22.2%
Motorcycle 20 0.2% 0.0%
Bicycle 35 0.3% -28.6%
Walk 111 0.9% 27.6%
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 West Chicago by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
60185 33,703 10,620 $107,194 $128,849

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FAQs about West Chicago demographics 

What is the total population of West Chicago?

West Chicago has a total population of 25,395 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Chicago?

The gender ratio in West Chicago is as follows:
  • 51.1% males (12,975 residents)
  • 48.9% females (12,420 residents)

What is the median age in West Chicago?

The median age in West Chicago is 36.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in West Chicago?

The age distribution in West Chicago is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.8% (5,278 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.7% (3,984 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (6,258 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.7% (7,045 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.1% (2,830 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Chicago?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Chicago is as follows:
  • White: 39.8% (10,101 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (821 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (288 residents)
  • Asian: 10.4% (2,639 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 21.9% (5,555 residents)
  • Other: 23.6% (5,991 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 65.1% of the population in West Chicago.

How many housing units are there in West Chicago?

There are 7,745 housing units in West Chicago, reflecting a 0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Chicago has a total of 7,459 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Chicago?

West Chicago has a median household income of $99,927, representing a -0.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for West Chicago?

The employment rate is 90.5% in West Chicago, with a workforce of 12,932 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.6% (9,000 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.4% (3,932 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (936 residents)
  • Private companies: 77.4% (10,003 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.6% (1,112 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.8% (881 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