| Statistic | Kankakee | Illinois | National |
| Population | 25,818 | 12,671,821 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,715 | 228 | 91 |
| Median age | 35.8 | 37.4 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 44% | 55% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 49% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 80% | 77% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 19% | 13% | 13% |
The demographics of Kankakee 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 25,818, Kankakee exhibits a population density of 1,715 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 35.8, with 44% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 49% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Kankakee, 36% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 7% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Kankakee is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Kankakee, the racial breakdown comprises 48% White, 41.4% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, 0.4% American Indian, and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 20.1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 79.6% of households reported speaking English only, while 18.9% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 10.6% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
Kankakee 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. Kankakee has a population density of 1,715 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.
Healthcare Planning: An analysis of Kankakee 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.
Urban Development: Utilizing Kankakee demographic statistics and data, urban planners can craft and develop areas that cater to local residents, encompassing housing, transportation and public services, all while emphasizing sustainability and enriching quality of life. Demographic transitions can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural environments. As neighborhoods draw in new residents with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longtime inhabitants and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. Comprehensive insights into population density, age distribution, household size, and income levels are instrumental in guiding decisions regarding zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing expansion and public amenities. Harnessing Kankakee demographic stats for planning and executing affordable housing initiatives can serve as a preventive measure against displacement.
Policy Planning: At various levels of government and within organizations and businesses, demographic data and statistics serve as essential tools for guiding policy and decision-making processes. Through the examination and interpretation of Kankakee demographic stats and data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas requiring attention, allocate resources judiciously and design policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic segments. The utilization of Kankakee demographic data plays a pivotal role in policy formulation by informing resource allocation, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, predicting future trends, assessing policy effectiveness, and advancing principles of equity and inclusivity. Through effective utilization of this data, policymakers can craft policies that are targeted, efficient, and responsive to the diverse needs of communities.
| Race | Kankakee | Illinois | National |
| White | 47.99% | 72.14% | 73.35% |
| Black | 41.39% | 14.30% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.51% | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.43% | 0.23% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 4.33% | 2.34% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 5.36% | 5.86% | 4.75% |
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