Northlake, IL
Population 12,547 · Illinois
About Northlake, IL
Northlake is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 12,547 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,564 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Northlake features a median home value of $242,400, which is 1% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Northlake in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,164, 0% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,600 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (2,976 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (1,430 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Northlake shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 10.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Northlake have an average one-way commute time of 28.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.4% of Northlake 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 52.1% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 5.5% Black or African American, and 3.0% Asian residents, with 29.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Northlake, IL
Compared to national averages, Northlake has a median household income of $77,564 (3% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $242,400, which is 1% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,164 is 0% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Northlake's income is 3% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 46% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Northlake, IL?
Northlake offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,564, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $242,400, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 10.1%, better than the national average.
Northlake has a population of 12,547 with a median age of 40.9 years. Compare Northlake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Northlake
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Richton Park | 12,576 | $71,724 | $200,400 | Compare |
| Rantoul | 12,515 | $49,821 | $109,200 | Compare |
| Winnetka | 12,508 | $250,001 | $1,206,300 | Compare |
| Minooka | 12,632 | $122,163 | $288,600 | Compare |
| Justice | 12,372 | $58,514 | $235,200 | Compare |
| Kewanee | 12,280 | $49,668 | $70,000 | Compare |
| Streator | 12,274 | $54,953 | $88,000 | Compare |
| Herrin | 12,271 | $58,501 | $109,100 | 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 Northlake With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Northlake
What is the population of Northlake, IL?
The population of Northlake, IL is 12,547 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 Northlake?
The median household income in Northlake, IL is $77,564 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Northlake?
The median home value in Northlake, IL is $242,400, which is 1% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Northlake?
The median monthly rent in Northlake, IL is $1,164, which is 0% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Northlake?
The unemployment rate in Northlake, IL is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Northlake, IL a good place to live?
Northlake offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 12,547 and a median age of 40.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Northlake, IL?
15.4% of residents in Northlake 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 Northlake?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Northlake, IL: median home value is $242,400 (1% below national), median rent is $1,164/month, and median household income is $77,564. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Northlake?
The poverty rate in Northlake, IL is 10.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Northlake, IL?
Northlake's population is 52.1% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 5.5% Black or African American, 3.0% Asian, and 4.1% two or more races. 29.0% of residents are foreign-born.