| Statistic | Harrisburg | Illinois | National |
| Population | 8,578 | 12,671,821 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,297 | 228 | 91 |
| Median age | 38.1 | 37.4 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 51% | 55% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 52% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 98% | 77% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 1% | 13% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg population is 8,578, with a population density of 1,297 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 38.1, and 51% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 52% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Harrisburg, 40% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 5% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
The Harrisburg racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown could be indispensable tools for recognizing and rectifying systemic inequities, fostering social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities. In Harrisburg, the racial breakdown reveals 89.2% White, 2.6% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0.4% Native Hawaiian, with 1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 97.6% reported speaking English only, while 0.7% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 0.9% of residents were classified as foreign-born.
Communities such as Harrisburg, with population densities higher than the average, play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability by decreasing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Their compact urban development encourages the adoption of energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling, and public transportation, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, densely populated areas tend to cultivate vibrant social and cultural scenes, fueled by a diverse population that contributes to a myriad of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity sparks creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. Harrisburg has a population density of 1,297, surpassing the national average of 91 people per square mile, as it stands poised to reap the benefits of dense urban living.
A family-friendly city like Harrisburg can prioritize the well-being and needs of families, creating an environment where children thrive, parents feel supported and families can enjoy a high quality of life together. Family-friendly cities are also known to foster a strong sense of community, with neighbors supporting and looking out for one another. These areas could also boast excellent educational opportunities, including high-quality schools, libraries and extracurricular activities. Access to quality education is essential for children's development and future success. By prioritizing the well-being of its residents, such cities become vibrant and resilient communities where families can truly flourish. In Harrisburg, 52% of families have kids under the age of 18 and 51% of residents over 15 years old are married. These demographics put this area in a position to reap the benefits of a family-friendly area.
Healthcare Planning: An analysis of Harrisburg demographics can inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends allows healthcare providers and policymakers to allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers, and policymakers strive to achieve equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.
Understanding Populations: By reporting and analyzing Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg population data serves as a cornerstone for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also fostering the well-being and strength of communities.
Education Allocation: Harrisburg 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, Harrisburg demographic data is indispensable in education for advancing equity, fostering student achievement, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to the needs of all students.
| Race | Harrisburg | Illinois | National |
| White | 89.20% | 72.14% | 73.35% |
| Black | 2.56% | 14.30% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.82% | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.00% | 0.23% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.40% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 6.91% | 2.34% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.10% | 5.86% | 4.75% |
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