Chicago, IL
Population 2,707,648 · Illinois
About Chicago, IL
Chicago is a major city in Illinois with a population of 2,707,648 residents. The median household income is $75,134 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Chicago is 35.7 years.
Housing in Chicago has a median home value of $315,200 and median monthly rent of $1,380. Of the 1,268,199 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 522,179 owner-occupied and 624,368 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Chicago is 7.9% and the poverty rate is 16.8%. 43.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 33.5 minutes.
How Chicago Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Chicago, IL
Compared to national averages, Chicago has a median household income of $75,134 (0% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $315,200, which is 29% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,380 is 19% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Chicago's income is 0% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 90% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Chicago, IL?
Chicago offers a well-educated community where 43.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Potential considerations include median household income ($75,134) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Chicago provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Chicago has a population of 2,707,648 with a median age of 35.7 years. Compare Chicago with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Chicago
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aurora | 179,867 | $90,109 | $260,400 | Compare |
| Joliet | 149,785 | $88,026 | $248,600 | Compare |
| Naperville | 149,424 | $150,937 | $509,900 | Compare |
| Rockford | 147,649 | $53,328 | $120,900 | Compare |
| Elgin | 114,106 | $88,316 | $252,400 | Compare |
| Springfield | 113,714 | $65,537 | $155,200 | Compare |
| Peoria | 112,126 | $58,716 | $149,500 | Compare |
| Waukegan | 88,919 | $70,578 | $177,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Chicago With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago
What is the population of Chicago, IL?
The population of Chicago, IL is 2,707,648 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Chicago?
The median household income in Chicago, IL is $75,134 per year.
What is the median home value in Chicago?
The median home value in Chicago, IL is $315,200.
What is the average rent in Chicago?
The median monthly rent in Chicago, IL is $1,380.
What is the unemployment rate in Chicago?
The unemployment rate in Chicago, IL is 7.9%.