Statistic Riverdale Illinois National
Population 12,878 13,081,969 336,919,644
Population density (sq mi) 3,602 236 91
Median age 32.2 37.4 37.7
Male/Female ratio 0.9:1 1.0:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 34% 55% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 46% 44% 43%
Speak English 98% 77% 79%
Speak Spanish 2% 13% 13%
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Overview of Riverdale Demographics

The population of Riverdale is 12,878, with a population density of 3,602 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 32.2 and 34% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 46% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Riverdale goes, 35% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 8% report an income exceeding $150,000. The Riverdale 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.

Riverdale Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The Riverdale 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 Riverdale is 6.5% White, 86.1% Black or African American, 0% Asian, 0.3% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 8.7% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 97.6% reported speaking English only, while 1.6% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 1.8% of residents were considered foreign born.

Riverdale Population Density

The Riverdale population density comes in at 3,602 people per square mile, which makes it one of the most densely populated areas in the country, far surpassing the national average of 91. Areas characterized by high population density often boast an abundance of amenities and services within close proximity, providing residents with convenient access to healthcare, education, cultural attractions, dining establishments, retail outlets and transportation options. This accessibility could potentially enhance residents' overall quality of life and well-being.

Why are Demographics Important?

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics serve as valuable tools for guiding policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations, and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of Riverdale demographics, policymakers, government officials and organizational leaders can identify areas requiring attention, allocate resources strategically and develop policies and initiatives that cater to the unique needs and preferences of various demographic groups. Riverdale demographic statistics can play a critical role in policy planning by informing resource allocation, enabling evidence-based decision-making, identifying priority areas, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and fostering equity and inclusivity. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can craft policies that are targeted, efficient and equitable, thereby addressing the diverse needs of communities.

Education Allocation: Riverdale demographic data can help guide education planning by identifying student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs, helping schools and policymakers allocate resources and develop effective educational programs. It can be an essential tool for identifying disparities in educational access and outcomes among different demographic groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, or students with disabilities. By disaggregating data by demographic factors, education planners can identify areas of inequity and develop targeted interventions to improve access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. Overall, Riverdale demographic data is invaluable in education for promoting equity, supporting student success, and fostering inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all students.

Healthcare Planning: Analyzing the demographic data in Riverdale has the potential to inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. Healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources more effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities by understanding demographic trends. Leveraging demographic statistics can enable healthcare providers and policymakers to strive for equitable, accessible and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and tailored healthcare services to meet diverse population needs.

Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Riverdale is 1429% higher than Illinois
  • The median age in Riverdale is 14% lower than Illinois
  • In Riverdale 6.47% of the population is White
  • In Riverdale 86.14% of the population is Black
  • In Riverdale 0.02% of the population is Asian

Compare Riverdale, IL Demographics

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      Riverdale racial demographics

      Race Riverdale Illinois National
      White 6.47% 72.14% 73.35%
      Black 86.14% 14.30% 12.63%
      Asian 0.02% 5.10% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.34% 0.23% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.00% 0.03% 0.18%
      Mixed race 6.84% 2.34% 3.06%
      Other race 0.19% 5.86% 4.75%
      In Riverdale, 8.7% 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

      Riverdale age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Riverdale, 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.