Douglas County, Illinois Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Douglas County is located in Illinois with a total population of 19,686. It is the 58th most populous county out of 102 in Illinois.

Age Demographics

The median age in Douglas County is 38.9 years. This is about average than the state median of 38.9 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Douglas County is $74,186. This is 9% lower than the state median of $81,702. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 6% lower. The poverty rate stands at 8.9%. This is 24% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.7%. The unemployment rate is 3.1%. This is 46% lower than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $142,600. Housing costs are 43% lower than the state median of $250,500. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.9x, Douglas County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 79.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 18% higher than the state average of 66.8%.

Race & Ethnicity

Douglas County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 87.9% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 8.1%. The Black or African American population (1.2%) is well below the state average of 13.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (8.1%) is well below the state average of 18.5%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 5.8%.

Education

20.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 46% lower than the state rate of 37.2%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 86.1%.