Jo Daviess County, Illinois Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Jo Daviess County is located in Illinois with a total population of 21,918. It is the 53rd most populous county out of 102 in Illinois.

Age Demographics

The median age in Jo Daviess County is 50.9 years. This is 31% higher than the state median of 38.9 years. 12.3% 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 Jo Daviess County is $74,954. This is 8% lower than the state median of $81,702. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 5% lower. The poverty rate stands at 8.0%. This is 31% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.7%. The unemployment rate is 2.9%. This is 49% lower than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $193,900. Housing costs are 23% lower than the state median of $250,500. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.6x, Jo Daviess County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 81.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 22% higher than the state average of 66.8%.

Race & Ethnicity

Jo Daviess County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 92.2% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 4.0%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (92.2% 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 (4.0%) is well below the state average of 18.5%. The Asian population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 5.8%.

Education

28.8% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 23% 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 93.4%.