Elmhurst, IL Demographics

Overview of Elmhurst Demographics

The demographics of Elmhurst 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 46,571, Elmhurst exhibits a population density of 4,558 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 40.7, with 66% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 49% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Elmhurst, 6% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 50% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.

Elmhurst Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The Elmhurst 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 Elmhurst is 86.8% White, 1.5% Black or African American, 6.2% Asian, 0.1% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 7.7% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 85.9% reported speaking English only, while 4.5% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 9.6% of residents were considered foreign born.

Elmhurst Population Density

Areas with a high population density tend to support a wide range of amenities and services within walking distance or a short commute. Residents tend to have convenient access to healthcare facilities, educational institutions, cultural venues, restaurants, shops and public transportation options, enhancing their quality of life and overall well-being. The Elmhurst population density is 4,558 people per square mile, which is well-above the national average of 91 and is considered one of the most densely populated cities in the country.

Why are Demographics Important?

Urban Development: Urban planners could use Elmhurst demographic data to design and create areas that accommodate the needs of residents, including housing, transportation and public services, while promoting sustainability and quality of life. Demographic shifts can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood change in urban or rural areas. As neighborhoods attract new residents with different income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may rise, leading to displacement of long-time residents and changes in the character and identity of the neighborhood. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels helps inform decisions related to zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Lastly, using Elmhurst demographics for planning and development of affordable housing can help prevent displacement.

Social Cohesion: The analysis and understanding of demographics are essential for promoting social cohesion and fostering appreciation among diverse communities. By embracing and acknowledging differences in Elmhurst demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while addressing social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics can reflect the diversity within a population and are instrumental in fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing ethnic diversity strengthens social connections, promotes cultural understanding and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Education Allocation: Elmhurst 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, Elmhurst demographic data is invaluable in education for promoting equity, supporting student success, and fostering inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all students.