Mar 23, 2022 - News

Inside Illinois' pre-pandemic growth spurt

Data: American Community Survey. Map: Jared Whalen/Axios

Illinois residents saw their household median income grow over the last five years, but still at a lower rate than in other states around the country.

Why it matters: In trying to keep up with inflation and cost of living increases, Illinoisans have seen their average median household income grow 5% to $68,428 in 2020.

Yes, but: The national average increase was 7%, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

By the numbers: Cook County saw one of the biggest increases in the state, rising from $55k in 2015 to $68k in 2020 — a 22% increase. Other notable shifts in the collar counties include:

  • DuPage: $80k in 2015 → $95k in 2020.
  • Lake County: $78k → $93k.
  • Kendall County: $84k → $97k.

Context: These numbers reflect the continued growth and economic expansion from the Great Recession to the pandemic.

Go deeper: View the entire interactive local map or look at the national trends.

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