Edgar County, Illinois Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Edgar County is located in Illinois with a total population of 16,637. It is the 63rd most populous county out of 102 in Illinois.

Age Demographics

The median age in Edgar County is 46.4 years. This is 19% higher than the state median of 38.9 years. 10.6% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Edgar County is $56,909. This is 30% lower than the state median of $81,702. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 28% lower. The poverty rate stands at 11.8%. This is about average than the state poverty rate of 11.7%. The unemployment rate is 4.4%. This is 23% lower than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $95,700. Housing costs are 62% lower than the state median of $250,500. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.7x, Edgar County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.7% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 9% higher than the state average of 66.8%.

Race & Ethnicity

Edgar County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 96.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.4%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (96.1% vs 58.8%). The Black or African American population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 13.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.4%) is well below the state average of 18.5%. The Asian population (0.2%) 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 90.1%.