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

Total population
7,118
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$47,898/yr
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,533
-2.6% year-over-year change

West Frankfort population

How many people live in West Frankfort

West Frankfort is home to 7,118 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of West Frankfort locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
7,118
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
3,583
Female
49.7%
3,535
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,583 50.3% -4.8%
Female 3,535 49.7% 4.2%
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 Frankfort is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.6% are children under 15, then 13.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.6%
15 to 24
13.3%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,468 20.6% 8.7%
15 to 24 944 13.3% -6.3%
25 to 44 1,821 25.6% -1.8%
45 to 64 1,834 25.8% -1.6%
Over 65 1,051 14.8% -2.6%
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 Frankfort, 97.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 96% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,962 97.8% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 125 1.8% 58.2%
Non-citizens 31 0.4% -13.9%
Racial breakdown
White
96%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 6,832 96%
Black or African American 39 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 11 0.2%
Asian 10 0.1%
Two or more races 210 3%
Other 16 0.2%

Households in West Frankfort

A peek inside West Frankfort households

West Frankfort has 2,978 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.8% are families, while the remaining 42.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,978
-2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,258
Family households
1,720
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,258 42.2% -5.8%
Family households 1,720 57.8% -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 West Frankfort

The housing landscape of West Frankfort

West Frankfort's housing consists of 3,533 units, with 79% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,533
-2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,793 79%
1 unit, attached 33 0.9%
2 units 132 3.7%
3 or 4 units 232 6.6%
5 to 9 units 47 1.3%
10 to 19 units 13 0.4%
20 to 49 units 33 0.9%
50 or more units 73 2.1%
Mobile home 177 5%
Homes built since 2020
46
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Frankfort

In West Frankfort, the median construction year is 1957. About 26.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 15.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 929 26.3% 10.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 560 15.8% 11.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 411 11.6% -9.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 614 17.4% 1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 446 12.6% -36.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 195 5.5% 2.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 47 1.3% -13.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 227 6.4% -3.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 58 1.6% 28.9%
Built in 2020 or later 46 1.3% 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.

West Frankfort occupancy rates

Out of the 2,978 occupied housing units in West Frankfort, 61.6% are owner-occupied, while 38.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,978
-2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,144
Owner occupied
1,834
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,144 38.4% 2.6%
Owner occupied 1,834 61.6% -5.5%
Unoccupied housing units
15.7%
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 Frankfort housing costs

Housing costs in West Frankfort come to a median of $676 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $661.

Median housing costs per month
$676/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 Frankfort
$661/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 Frankfort

West Frankfort education at a glance

About 48.4% of the population in West Frankfort went to high school, while 22.7% pursued college studies. Another 14.2% earned an associate degree and 6.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 265 5% 93.4%
High school diploma 2,550 48.4% -7.3%
College diploma 1,196 22.7% -8.3%
Associate degree 749 14.2% 15.6%
Bachelor's degree 321 6.1% -17.3%
Graduate degree 193 3.7% -23.1%
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 Frankfort

How much people earn in West Frankfort

The average annual household income in West Frankfort was $58,513 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $47,898, reflecting a -0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Frankfort
$58,513/year
-1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Frankfort
$47,898/year
-0.5% year-over-year change

West Frankfort income by age

In West Frankfort, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,115. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $46,493 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,352 in earnings. Overall, 71.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,000 -0.6%
25 - 44 $51,115 0.7%
45 - 64 $46,493 -15.5%
Over 65 $48,352 0.8%
Above poverty level
4,904
Below poverty level
1,997
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,904 71.1% -4.6%
Below poverty level 1,997 28.9% 16.8%

Average renter income in West Frankfort

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in West Frankfort, their median household income was $24,731 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,731
Rent-to-income ratio
32.1%
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 Frankfort

Workforce and job types in West Frankfort

The job market in West Frankfort is powered by 2,804 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.7% run their own businesses, 72.6% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,804
-6.4% year-over-year change
White collar
1,835
Blue collar
969
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,835 65.4% -10.5%
Blue collar 969 34.6% 2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
5.7%
Private companies
72.6%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 159 5.7% -35.9%
Private companies 2,035 72.6% -3.5%
Governmental workers 375 13.4% -14.0%
Not for profit companies 235 8.4% 15.8%
Unemployment rate
15.2%
15.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in West Frankfort stands at 15.2%, 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 West Frankfort

How people get around in West Frankfort

Commuting methods vary: 90.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% 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 2,490 90.3% -2.7%
Bus or trolleybus 11 0.4% -76.1%
Walk 109 4% 5.8%
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 West Frankfort by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
62896 10,627 4,501 $55,458 $70,921

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FAQs about West Frankfort demographics 

What is the total population of West Frankfort?

West Frankfort has a total population of 7,118 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Frankfort?

The gender ratio in West Frankfort is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (3,583 residents)
  • 49.7% females (3,535 residents)

What is the median age in West Frankfort?

The median age in West Frankfort is 39.

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

The age distribution in West Frankfort is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.6% (1,468 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.3% (944 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (1,821 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (1,834 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.8% (1,051 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Frankfort?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Frankfort is as follows:
  • White: 96% (6,832 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (39 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (11 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (10 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (210 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (16 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.8% of the population in West Frankfort.

How many housing units are there in West Frankfort?

There are 3,533 housing units in West Frankfort, reflecting a -2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Frankfort has a total of 2,978 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Frankfort?

West Frankfort has a median household income of $47,898, representing a -0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 84.8% in West Frankfort, with a workforce of 2,804 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.4% (1,835 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.6% (969 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.7% (159 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.6% (2,035 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (375 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (235 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