McDonough County, Illinois Demographics 2026

Population Overview

McDonough County is located in Illinois with a total population of 27,102. It is the 50th most populous county out of 102 in Illinois. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in McDonough County is 35.1 years. This is 10% lower than the state median of 38.9 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in McDonough County is $50,434. This is 38% lower than the state median of $81,702. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 36% lower. The poverty rate stands at 19.9%. This is 70% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.7%. The unemployment rate is 8.6%. This is 48% higher than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $103,500. Housing costs are 59% lower than the state median of $250,500. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.1x, McDonough County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 62.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 7% lower than the state average of 66.8%.

Race & Ethnicity

McDonough County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 85.8% of all residents. Black or African American residents account for 5.7%. The Black or African American population (5.7%) is well below the state average of 13.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (3.5%) is well below the state average of 18.5%. The Asian population (2.0%) is well below the state average of 5.8%.

Education

31.8% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 14% 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 94.3%. Notably, 15.1% of adults hold a graduate or professional degree, indicating a highly educated workforce.