West Chicago, IL
Population 25,434 · Illinois
About West Chicago, IL
West Chicago is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 25,434 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $100,568 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.8 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 West Chicago features a median home value of $306,500, which is 25% above the national median of $244,900. This positions West Chicago in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,376, 18% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,745 total housing units, 74% are owner-occupied (5,474 units) and 26% are renter-occupied (1,962 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Chicago shows an unemployment rate of 10.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Chicago have an average one-way commute time of 26.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.3% of West Chicago 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 44.4% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 2.4% Asian residents, with 31.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Chicago, IL
Compared to national averages, West Chicago has a median household income of $100,568 (34% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $306,500, which is 25% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,376 is 18% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, West Chicago's income is 34% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 85% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in West Chicago, IL?
West Chicago offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $100,568, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 12.1%, better than the national average.
West Chicago has a population of 25,434 with a median age of 35.8 years. Compare West Chicago with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near West Chicago
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alton | 25,430 | $53,005 | $99,500 | Compare |
| Morton Grove | 24,687 | $106,078 | $377,000 | Compare |
| Lockport | 26,228 | $113,252 | $298,800 | Compare |
| Woodstock | 26,316 | $83,293 | $231,100 | Compare |
| Homer Glen | 24,516 | $128,546 | $400,000 | Compare |
| Melrose Park | 24,513 | $64,740 | $265,000 | Compare |
| Belvidere | 24,510 | $62,462 | $153,100 | Compare |
| Zion | 24,466 | $62,574 | $179,100 | 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 West Chicago With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Chicago
What is the population of West Chicago, IL?
The population of West Chicago, IL is 25,434 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 West Chicago?
The median household income in West Chicago, IL is $100,568 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Chicago?
The median home value in West Chicago, IL is $306,500, which is 25% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Chicago?
The median monthly rent in West Chicago, IL is $1,376, which is 18% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Chicago?
The unemployment rate in West Chicago, IL is 10.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Chicago, IL a good place to live?
West Chicago offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 25,434 and a median age of 35.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is West Chicago, IL?
32.3% of residents in West 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 West Chicago?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Chicago, IL: median home value is $306,500 (25% above national), median rent is $1,376/month, and median household income is $100,568. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Chicago?
The poverty rate in West Chicago, IL is 12.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is West Chicago, IL?
West Chicago's population is 44.4% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 2.4% Asian, and 2.5% two or more races. 31.8% of residents are foreign-born.