Hancock County, Illinois Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Hancock County is located in Illinois with a total population of 17,434. It is the 60th most populous county out of 102 in Illinois.

Age Demographics

The median age in Hancock County is 46.3 years. This is 19% higher than the state median of 38.9 years. 10.2% 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 Hancock County is $65,044. This is 20% lower than the state median of $81,702. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 17% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.7%. This is 9% higher 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 $108,400. Housing costs are 57% lower than the state median of $250,500. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.7x, Hancock County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 81.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 22% higher than the state average of 66.8%.

Race & Ethnicity

Hancock County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 94.6% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.0%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (94.6% vs 58.8%). The Black or African American population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 13.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.0%) is well below the state average of 18.5%. The Asian population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 5.8%.

Education

24.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 35% 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 94.0%.