North Chicago, IL
Population 30,772 · Illinois
About North Chicago, IL
North Chicago is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 30,772 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,815 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 23.6 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in North Chicago features a median home value of $147,800, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. This positions North Chicago in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,392, 20% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,085 total housing units, 33% are owner-occupied (2,432 units) and 67% are renter-occupied (4,868 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in North Chicago shows an unemployment rate of 8.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 21.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in North Chicago have an average one-way commute time of 17.1 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
19.1% of North Chicago residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 30.8% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 2.3% Black or African American, and 5.0% Asian residents, with 18.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in North Chicago, IL
Compared to national averages, North Chicago has a median household income of $56,815 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $147,800, which is 40% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,392 is 20% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, North Chicago's income is 24% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 11% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in North Chicago, IL?
North Chicago offers affordable housing with a median home value of $147,800, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 17.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,815) that falls below the national average. However, North Chicago’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
North Chicago has a population of 30,772 with a median age of 23.6 years. Compare North Chicago with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near North Chicago
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gurnee | 30,486 | $121,410 | $331,100 | Compare |
| Niles | 30,262 | $78,563 | $350,900 | Compare |
| Highland Park | 30,229 | $161,875 | $594,400 | Compare |
| Mundelein | 31,632 | $107,608 | $285,600 | Compare |
| Algonquin | 29,904 | $131,753 | $324,000 | Compare |
| Pekin | 31,812 | $58,355 | $118,200 | Compare |
| Galesburg | 29,653 | $45,213 | $89,800 | Compare |
| Elk Grove Village | 32,132 | $95,216 | $334,400 | 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 North Chicago With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about North Chicago
What is the population of North Chicago, IL?
The population of North Chicago, IL is 30,772 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 North Chicago?
The median household income in North Chicago, IL is $56,815 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in North Chicago?
The median home value in North Chicago, IL is $147,800, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in North Chicago?
The median monthly rent in North Chicago, IL is $1,392, which is 20% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in North Chicago?
The unemployment rate in North Chicago, IL is 8.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is North Chicago, IL a good place to live?
North Chicago offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 30,772 and a median age of 23.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is North Chicago, IL?
19.1% of residents in North Chicago 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 North Chicago?
Key cost-of-living indicators for North Chicago, IL: median home value is $147,800 (40% below national), median rent is $1,392/month, and median household income is $56,815. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in North Chicago?
The poverty rate in North Chicago, IL is 21.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is North Chicago, IL?
North Chicago's population is 30.8% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 2.3% Black or African American, 5.0% Asian, and 23.3% two or more races. 18.1% of residents are foreign-born.