Westchester, IL
Population 16,524 · Illinois
About Westchester, IL
Westchester is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 16,524 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $103,561 per year, which is 38% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 52.9 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 Westchester features a median home value of $297,400, which is 21% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Westchester in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,767, 52% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,376 total housing units, 91% are owner-occupied (6,473 units) and 9% are renter-occupied (611 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Westchester shows an unemployment rate of 5.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 4.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Westchester have an average one-way commute time of 27 minutes.
Education & Demographics
45.7% of Westchester residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 16.0% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Black or African American, and 2.5% Asian residents, with 14.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Westchester, IL
Compared to national averages, Westchester has a median household income of $103,561 (38% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $297,400, which is 21% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,767 is 52% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Westchester's income is 38% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 79% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Westchester, IL?
Westchester offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $103,561, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 45.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 4.5%, better than the national average.
Westchester has a population of 16,524 with a median age of 52.9 years. Compare Westchester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Westchester
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morton | 16,503 | $87,760 | $238,900 | Compare |
| Country Club Hills | 16,419 | $77,463 | $180,600 | Compare |
| Mattoon | 16,334 | $47,308 | $96,000 | Compare |
| Bridgeview | 16,721 | $65,153 | $234,000 | Compare |
| Fairview Heights | 16,255 | $77,960 | $166,800 | Compare |
| Marion | 16,796 | $57,281 | $145,300 | Compare |
| La Grange | 15,999 | $154,556 | $582,600 | Compare |
| Washington | 15,946 | $91,360 | $216,700 | 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 Westchester With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Westchester
What is the population of Westchester, IL?
The population of Westchester, IL is 16,524 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 Westchester?
The median household income in Westchester, IL is $103,561 per year, which is 38% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Westchester?
The median home value in Westchester, IL is $297,400, which is 21% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Westchester?
The median monthly rent in Westchester, IL is $1,767, which is 52% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Westchester?
The unemployment rate in Westchester, IL is 5.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Westchester, IL a good place to live?
Westchester offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 16,524 and a median age of 52.9, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Westchester, IL?
45.7% of residents in Westchester aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Westchester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Westchester, IL: median home value is $297,400 (21% above national), median rent is $1,767/month, and median household income is $103,561. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Westchester?
The poverty rate in Westchester, IL is 4.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Westchester, IL?
Westchester's population is 16.0% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Black or African American, 2.5% Asian, and 19.9% two or more races. 14.1% of residents are foreign-born.