Inside Illinois' pre-pandemic growth spurt
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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.
- Unfortunately, that growth spurt has ended.
Go deeper: View the entire interactive local map or look at the national trends.