Statistic Pekin Illinois National
Population 33,468 13,081,969 336,919,644
Population density (sq mi) 2,289 236 91
Median age 40.8 37.4 37.7
Male/Female ratio 1.0:1 1.0:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 53% 55% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 43% 44% 43%
Speak English 98% 77% 79%
Speak Spanish 1% 13% 13%
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Overview of Pekin Demographics

The population of Pekin is 33,468, with a population density of 2,289 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 40.8 and 53% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 43% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Pekin goes, 27% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 10% report an income exceeding $150,000. The Pekin demographics data can provide indispensable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of cities, towns or even villages, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to devise strategies that foster prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents.

Pekin Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The Pekin racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown serves as a critical tool for understanding and addressing systemic inequities, promoting social justice and inclusion and building stronger, more resilient communities. The racial breakdown in Pekin is 94.4% White, 2.2% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, 0.3% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 2.1% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 98.2% reported speaking English only, while 0.9% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 0.8% of residents were considered foreign born.

Pekin Population Density

High population density areas are renowned for their extensive array of amenities and services, easily accessible to residents within walking distance or a short commute. From healthcare facilities and educational institutions to cultural venues, dining establishments, retail shops and public transportation options, these communities offer convenience and enrichment to their inhabitants. The Pekin population density is 2,289 people per square mile, well above the national average of 91, making it one of the most densely populated cities in the nation.

Why are Demographics Important?

Education Allocation: Pekin 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, Pekin demographic data is indispensable in education for advancing equity, fostering student achievement, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to the needs of all students.

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics play a fundamental role in informing policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of Pekin demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of concern, allocate resources efficiently, and devise policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic groups. The utilization of demographics in Pekin can be crucial in policy planning, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and advancing principles of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and inclusive, thus meeting the diverse needs of communities.

Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Pekin 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 Pekin demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.

Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Pekin is 872% higher than Illinois
  • The median age in Pekin is 9% higher than Illinois
  • In Pekin 94.43% of the population is White
  • In Pekin 2.18% of the population is Black
  • In Pekin 0.62% of the population is Asian

Compare Pekin, IL Demographics

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      Pekin racial demographics

      Race Pekin Illinois National
      White 94.43% 72.14% 73.35%
      Black 2.18% 14.30% 12.63%
      Asian 0.62% 5.10% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.30% 0.23% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.05% 0.03% 0.18%
      Mixed race 2.20% 2.34% 3.06%
      Other race 0.22% 5.86% 4.75%
      In Pekin, 2.1% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      Pekin age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Pekin, IL demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.