| Statistic | Wood River | Illinois | National |
| Population | 10,358 | 13,081,969 | 336,919,644 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,484 | 236 | 91 |
| Median age | 36.0 | 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 | 48% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 99% | 77% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 0% | 13% | 13% |
The demographics of Wood River 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 10,358, Wood River exhibits a population density of 1,484 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 36, with 51% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 48% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Wood River, 21% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 8% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Wood River is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Wood River, the racial breakdown comprises 90.4% White, 5.1% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, 0.3% American Indian, and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 0.2% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 98.8% of households reported speaking English only, while 0.2% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 0.5% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
Wood River could serve as a prime example of how areas with higher-than-average population density can champion environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Embracing compact urban development, these densely populated areas promote energy-efficient buildings and encourages walking, cycling and public transit use, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Moreover, densely populated regions are renowned for their vibrant social and cultural scenes, driven by a diverse population that organizes an array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity ignites creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Wood River population density is 1,484, surpassing the national average of 91 per square miles, positioning itself to capitalize on the advantages of dense urban living.
Social Cohesion: The examination and interpretation of demographics are pivotal for nurturing social cohesion and promoting understanding among diverse communities. By acknowledging and honoring differences in Wood River demographics, societies can champion inclusivity, diversity and social cohesion while addressing social disparities and advocating for equitable opportunities. Racial demographics can potentially showcase the diversity of a population and are crucial for fostering inclusive and embracing communities. Embracing diversity fortifies social bonds, fosters cultural appreciation and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics can inform policy and decision-making processes at various levels of government, as well as in organizations and businesses. By reporting and analyzing Wood River demographics data, policymakers, government officials and organizational leaders can identify areas of need, allocate resources effectively and develop targeted policies and programs that address the specific needs and priorities of different demographic groups. Wood River demographics can play a crucial role in policy planning by informing resource allocation, evidence-based decision making, identifying priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy impact and promoting equity and inclusion. By leveraging this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and responsive to the needs of diverse communities.
Education Allocation: Utilizing census data like Wood River demographics can be useful in guiding education planning, as it helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources and devising effective educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among various demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. By disaggregating data based on demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. In essence, Wood River demographic statistics can play an indispensable role in education by promoting equity, bolstering student success and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.
| Race | Wood River | Illinois | National |
| White | 90.39% | 72.14% | 73.35% |
| Black | 5.12% | 14.30% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.84% | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.27% | 0.23% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 3.20% | 2.34% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.18% | 5.86% | 4.75% |
Here are the best places to live in Illinois
Safest Cities In The US
These are the 10 cheapest cities in Illinois
See the best places to live in Wood River