| Statistic | Rantoul | Illinois | National |
| Population | 12,946 | 12,671,821 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,525 | 228 | 91 |
| Median age | 34.3 | 37.4 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 47% | 55% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 48% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 88% | 77% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 9% | 13% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Rantoul is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Rantoul population is 12,946, with a population density of 1,525 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 34.3, and 47% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 48% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Rantoul, 25% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 6% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
Understanding the Rantoul racial demographics and ethnic composition is paramount for addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and fortifying communities. In Rantoul, the racial breakdown indicates 66.4% White, 21.2% Black or African American, 2.2% Asian, 0.2% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 11.4% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Notably, 88.2% of households reported speaking English only, while 9% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 5.7% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
Rantoul has a population density that is well above-average, which plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. Rantoul has a population density of 1,525 people per square mile, exceeding the national average of 91 and positions itself in a good spot to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.
Education Allocation: Rantoul demographics can play a pivotal role in guiding education planning, offering insights into student demographics, school enrollment patterns, and educational requirements. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the development of effective educational programs. It serves as a critical tool for identifying disparities in educational access and outcomes among diverse demographic groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Ultimately, Rantoul demographic data is indispensable in education for advancing equity, fostering student achievement, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to the needs of all students.
Social Cohesion: Reporting and analyzing demographics can play a crucial role in fostering social cohesion and understanding among diverse communities. By recognizing and appreciating differences in Rantoul demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony, while addressing social disparities and promoting equal opportunities for all individuals. Racial demographics reflect the diversity of a population and contribute to fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing diversity strengthens social cohesion, promotes cultural understanding and enriches the fabric of society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from different racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Understanding Populations: By reporting and analyzing Rantoul demographics, we can acquire valuable insights into the makeup and traits of populations, encompassing age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and various socio-economic factors. This comprehension is vital for tackling the varied needs, preferences, and obstacles encountered by different demographic groups within communities. Demographics serve a pivotal role in comprehending populations, guiding decision-making processes and advancing equity, inclusion and overall well-being for all individuals and communities. The Rantoul population data serves as a cornerstone for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also fostering the well-being and strength of communities.
| Race | Rantoul | Illinois | National |
| White | 66.44% | 72.14% | 73.35% |
| Black | 21.20% | 14.30% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 2.16% | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.21% | 0.23% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 8.81% | 2.34% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 1.20% | 5.86% | 4.75% |
Here are the best places to live in Illinois
10 best cities to buy a new house in Illinois
Top 10 cities in Illinois with the best education system
Top 10 best public schools in Rantoul