McHenry, IL
Population 27,774 · Illinois
About McHenry, IL
McHenry is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 27,774 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $86,865 per year, which is 16% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.5 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in McHenry features a median home value of $244,900, which is 0% below the national median of $244,900. This positions McHenry in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,508, 30% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 11,671 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (8,473 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (3,074 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in McHenry shows an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 4.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in McHenry have an average one-way commute time of 30.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.5% of McHenry residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 14.6% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 7.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in McHenry, IL
Compared to national averages, McHenry has a median household income of $86,865 (16% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $244,900, which is 0% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,508 is 30% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, McHenry's income is 16% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 48% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in McHenry, IL?
McHenry offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $86,865, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%, and a low poverty rate of 4.0%, better than the national average.
McHenry has a population of 27,774 with a median age of 43.5 years. Compare McHenry with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near McHenry
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Huntley | 27,859 | $86,349 | $318,500 | Compare |
| Wilmette | 27,550 | $192,300 | $802,200 | Compare |
| New Lenox | 27,456 | $133,071 | $377,500 | Compare |
| Glen Ellyn | 28,270 | $133,346 | $522,600 | Compare |
| Lansing | 28,415 | $71,805 | $168,500 | Compare |
| Round Lake Beach | 27,081 | $86,632 | $191,200 | Compare |
| Chicago Heights | 26,938 | $57,479 | $149,900 | Compare |
| Oak Forest | 26,888 | $87,941 | $247,800 | 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 McHenry With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about McHenry
What is the population of McHenry, IL?
The population of McHenry, IL is 27,774 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in McHenry?
The median household income in McHenry, IL is $86,865 per year, which is 16% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McHenry?
The median home value in McHenry, IL is $244,900, which is 0% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in McHenry?
The median monthly rent in McHenry, IL is $1,508, which is 30% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McHenry?
The unemployment rate in McHenry, IL is 3.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is McHenry, IL a good place to live?
McHenry offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 27,774 and a median age of 43.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is McHenry, IL?
25.5% of residents in McHenry aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in McHenry?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McHenry, IL: median home value is $244,900 (0% below national), median rent is $1,508/month, and median household income is $86,865. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in McHenry?
The poverty rate in McHenry, IL is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is McHenry, IL?
McHenry's population is 14.6% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 0.7% two or more races. 7.7% of residents are foreign-born.