| Statistic | Palos Heights | Illinois | National |
| Population | 12,460 | 12,671,821 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 3,302 | 228 | 91 |
| Median age | 51.7 | 37.4 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 67% | 55% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 27% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 84% | 77% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 4% | 13% | 13% |
The demographics of Palos Heights offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 12,460, Palos Heights exhibits a population density of 3,302 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 51.7, with 67% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 27% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Palos Heights, 8% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 35% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
Understanding the Palos Heights racial demographics and ethnic composition is paramount for addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and fortifying communities. In Palos Heights, the racial breakdown indicates 92.2% White, 2% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, 0.5% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 8.3% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Notably, 83.9% of households reported speaking English only, while 4.4% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 8.6% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
High population density areas typically offer a diverse array of amenities and services within walking distance or a short commute, enriching residents' quality of life and well-being. Accessible healthcare facilities, educational institutions, cultural venues, restaurants, shopping and public transportation options contribute to the convenience and vibrancy of these communities. The population density of of Palos Heights is 3,302 people per square mile, which far exceeds the national average of 91 and ranks among the most densely populated cities in the nation.
In a city like Palos Heights with fewer children, there are numerous advantages tailored to a demographic where families with fewer or no children seek an ideal environment. These benefits may encompass a serene atmosphere, a heightened emphasis on amenities geared towards adults, reduced traffic congestion and enhanced affordability. Notably, one of the key advantages could be the wider availability of housing options designed to suit adult residents or smaller households. This may include a variety of housing types such as condominiums, apartments, or single-family homes tailored for couples or individuals without children, thereby offering a diverse range of choices for prospective buyers or renters. Areas with fewer children may also signal that the locale is conducive to retirees or seniors. In Palos Heights, only 27% of the population consists of children under 18 years old, significantly below the national average. Additionally, 67% of residents aged over 15 are married. These demographics could suggest a promising environment for capitalizing on all the benefits of a city with fewer children.
Social Cohesion: The analysis and understanding of demographics are essential for promoting social cohesion and fostering appreciation among diverse communities. By embracing and acknowledging differences in Palos Heights demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while addressing social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics can reflect the diversity within a population and are instrumental in fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing ethnic diversity strengthens social connections, promotes cultural understanding and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics serve as vital tools for informing policy and decision-making processes across various levels of government, as well as within organizations and businesses. Through the reporting and analysis of demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of need, allocate resources efficiently, and craft tailored policies and programs to address the unique needs and priorities of different demographic groups. The utilization of demographic data in Palos Heights is instrumental in policy planning, facilitating resource allocation, evidence-based decision-making, priority identification, trend forecasting, policy impact assessment, and the promotion of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can devise targeted, impactful, and inclusive policies that cater to the diverse needs of communities.
Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Palos Heights to design and develop areas that cater to residents' needs, spanning housing, transportation, and public services, while prioritizing sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Demographic changes can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural contexts. As neighborhoods attract new residents with diverse income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longstanding residents and reshaping the neighborhood's identity. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is essential for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Incorporating Palos Heights demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.
| Race | Palos Heights | Illinois | National |
| White | 92.18% | 72.14% | 73.35% |
| Black | 2.04% | 14.30% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 1.40% | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.49% | 0.23% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.03% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 2.92% | 2.34% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.94% | 5.86% | 4.75% |
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