Illinois State Population
Over 12 million strong.
| Year | Population |
|---|---|
| 1910 | 5,638,591 |
| 1920 | 6,485,280 |
| 1930 | 7,630,654 |
| 1940 | 7,897,241 |
| 1950 | 8,712,176 |
| 1960 | 10,081,158 |
| 1970 | 11,113,976 |
| 1980 | 11,426,518 |
| 1990 | 11,430,602 |
| 2000 | 12,419,293 |
| 2010 | 12,830,632 |
| 2020 | 12,812,508 |
Illinois is home to approximately 12.8 million people, making it the sixth most populous state in the United States. Its population experienced rapid and sustained growth throughout the 19th and much of the 20th century, fueled by industrialization, agricultural expansion, and Chicago's emergence as a major economic and transportation hub. This historical trajectory saw the state consistently grow, peaking around the 2000-2010 decade. However, in recent years, Illinois has faced a notable challenge: sustained population decline. Since the mid-2010s, the state has consistently lost residents, primarily due to out-migration as people move to other states, coupled with slowing natural increase (births minus deaths), a trend that has significant implications for its economy and political representation.
Data Source: US Census Bureau