Evanston, IL
Population 76,552 · Illinois
About Evanston, IL
Evanston is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 76,552 residents. The median household income is $95,766 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Evanston is 38 years.
Housing in Evanston has a median home value of $472,300 and median monthly rent of $1,698. Of the 33,914 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 17,524 owner-occupied and 13,863 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Evanston is 6.3% and the poverty rate is 11.9%. 70.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28.5 minutes.
How Evanston Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Evanston, IL
Compared to national averages, Evanston has a median household income of $95,766 (27% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $472,300, which is 93% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,698 is 46% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Evanston's income is 28% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 185% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Evanston, IL?
Evanston offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $95,766, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 70.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 11.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $472,300. However, as a mid-sized city, Evanston provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Evanston has a population of 76,552 with a median age of 38 years. Compare Evanston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Evanston
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schaumburg | 76,780 | $94,690 | $312,200 | Compare |
| Arlington Heights | 76,220 | $118,532 | $403,200 | Compare |
| Bloomington | 78,703 | $75,449 | $198,800 | Compare |
| Bolingbrook | 73,813 | $107,552 | $295,500 | Compare |
| Decatur | 70,368 | $50,809 | $97,300 | Compare |
| Cicero | 83,223 | $68,548 | $236,000 | Compare |
| Palatine | 66,548 | $95,950 | $347,900 | Compare |
| Skokie | 66,427 | $93,550 | $368,600 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Evanston
What is the population of Evanston, IL?
The population of Evanston, IL is 76,552 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Evanston?
The median household income in Evanston, IL is $95,766 per year.
What is the median home value in Evanston?
The median home value in Evanston, IL is $472,300.
What is the average rent in Evanston?
The median monthly rent in Evanston, IL is $1,698.
What is the unemployment rate in Evanston?
The unemployment rate in Evanston, IL is 6.3%.