Shelby County, Illinois Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Shelby County is located in Illinois with a total population of 20,867. It is the 56th most populous county out of 102 in Illinois. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Shelby County is 45.5 years. This is 17% higher than the state median of 38.9 years. 10.0% 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 Shelby County is $68,457. This is 16% lower than the state median of $81,702. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 13% lower. The poverty rate stands at 10.0%. This is 15% lower than the state poverty rate of 11.7%. The unemployment rate is 3.0%. This is 48% lower than the state rate of 5.8%. The median home value is $130,400. Housing costs are 48% lower than the state median of $250,500. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.9x, Shelby County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 78.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 17% higher than the state average of 66.8%.

Race & Ethnicity

Shelby County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 96.3% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.1%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (96.3% vs 58.8%). The Black or African American population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 13.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.1%) is well below the state average of 18.5%. The Asian population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 5.8%.

Education

17.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 53% 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 94.5%.